The tremendous opportunity to be part of the NRL season opener in Las Vegas next year has led to the decision by Manly Warringah Sea Eagles to not return to Mudgee in 2024.
The Sea Eagles have taken a home game to the regional town of Mudgee for the past three years with much success, winning two games and recording a draw at Glen Willow Stadium.
With Manly committed to playing 10 home games at 4 Pines Park in 2024 as well as a contracted home match in Brisbane as part of NRL Magic Round, it left no room for the game in Mudgee next year.
The annual home game against the Brisbane Broncos in NRL Magic Round enters its final year of the current deal in 2024.
The Sea Eagles will be one of four teams to play in the historic NRL season opener at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Saturday, March 2, when they take on South Sydney.
“It was a difficult decision to make on Mudgee, and one we certainly didn’t take lightly,’’ said Manly CEO Tony Mestrov.
“Mudgee has become a very popular home game for the club. The local community certainly embraced the Sea Eagles as their team.
“I know our players, corporate partners, and the many Manly supporters who travelled to Mudgee over the past three years certainly enjoyed the region and the wonderful hospitality shown to us all.
“Although we won’t be returning to play a home game there next year, I want to make it clear that Mudgee is definitely still very much in our future plans when it comes to taking home games away.
“For now, we like to thank Mid-Western Regional Council and Mayor Des Kennedy, Mudgee Region Tourism, and the many local businesses for all their great work and fantastic support in making our home game there a success both on and off the field.”
