The Easts Tigers and the Wynnum Manly Seagulls will compete for the inaugural Charity Cup at Suzuki Stadium this Saturday (February 11, 2017).
The Tigers and Seagulls have agreed to play each other during the trials on an annual basis with the gate takings to be donated to both the club’s respective charities.
The clubs will play at their home grounds every alternate season, with the 2018 game to be played at the home of the Seagulls, BMD Kougari Oval.
Easts CEO Brian Torpy said he was excited to have his club involved in this initiative.
‘’The concept is not new and is based on the successful St George Dragons v South Sydney Rabbitohs Charity Shield, which is a tradition in the NRL,” Torpy said.
“The beauty of this concept is the game is a local derby between two fierce rivals, which attract good crowds.
“Wynnum’s CEO Hanan Laban and I discussed the concept and were hoping to play the game in the last trial before Round 1, however the Seagulls had already agreed to play the Brisbane Broncos that weekend.
“However going forward we expect this game to be the final trial, with both sides playing what they believe will be close to their Round 1 starting side.”
Seagulls’ CEO Hanan Laban said he was happy to join with the Tigers to present this game.
“This is a fantastic initiative by the Easts Tigers, and we were more than willing to take part,” Laban said.
“Not only is it a chance for our supporters to enjoy another matchup between our two rival clubs, but it is an opportunity to give back to our chosen charities.
“We look forward to this being a highlight of both clubs’ calendars into the future.”
The two clubs have agreed to split the gate takings, with the Tigers share being donated to Livin, a registered charity organisation which was founded to wipe out the stigma attached to mental illness and raise awareness for suicide prevention.
The Seagulls will donate to the Men of League Foundation who support members of the rugby league community who have fallen on hard times.
The Charity Cup kicks-off at 7.30 pm with games commencing at 3pm.
