Some 2300 players in 145 teams will take to the Riverside fields for the championships,, which also mark a 20 year milestone for the sport in Tamworth.

Tamworth organiser, Pam Potts, said it was the biggest ever local representation.

“This would be the most divisions we have ever had compete at State Cup after many years of travelling away,” she said.

“All divisions have been training since just prior to the Christmas break and are looking good.  They are excited about competing in such a tournament on home turf. 

“Many of our players involved are current or former Aussie/Barbarian players, so along with some new blood, we have a lot of experience across all teams.”

Tamworth’s eight teams are: Under 20s Mixed (Coach - Zeta Knight), Open Mens (Player/Coach - Todd Wilson), Open Womens (Coaches – Racheal Schmiedel and Tiffany Walsh), Senior Mixed (Player/Coach - Tim Walsh), Masters Women (Coach - Steve Corbett), Over 40s (Player/Coach - David Barnett), 45s (Player/Coach – Michael Gould) & 50s Mens (Player/Coach –  Jock Stier/Mick McKinnon). 

She said a record 115 teams had played in Tamworth over summer in a growing sport.

“Because of this growth and f course the opportunity of playing locally, we have managed to create a lot of extra interest among  players wanting to step up to that next level.”

She said the fact Bingara’s small community (a competition of about seven or eight teams) had managed to put together two sides in both Open Men’s and Open Mixed is also outstanding.

“It will be a great opportunity for them to get a taste of the rep scene and is a fantastic effort from such a small competition. We wish them the best of luck.”