Two of Queenslands most passionate Origin fans today joined Maroons coach Mal Meninga and Queensland Rugby League chief executive officer Robert Moore for the QRLs Maroon Membership launch.
Fernvale-based small business owners Bill and Lyn Rose got in early last week becoming the first fans to purchase a Maroon Membership ahead of the 2014 Holden State of Origin series.
Having signed up for the Ultimate Queenslander package, the Roses have already secured their seats on the halfway line for Games One and Three at Suncorp Stadium next year.
Ive been a Maroons fan since day dot when Arthur Beetson ran out on to the field, Bill, 67, said.
I wanted Queensland to win then and Ive wanted them to win ever since. My wife is even more committed to the Maroons and State of Origin than I am ... she just loves it.
Bill and Lyn have owned and operated the Old Fernvale Bakery for nearly 30 years. The store is always decked out in maroon colours in the months of May, June and July when their beloved Maroons go head to head with New South Wales.
Queensland coach Mal Meninga said his players were regularly inspired by such support.
Our fans are the best in the game, Meninga said.
Their passion for rugby league in Queensland and our state in general inspires the players and coaching staff year after year.
Youve only got to look at what people like Bill and Lyn have done last week and again today to see how much the Maroons mean to them.
They were the first to sign up as Maroon Members and theyve travelled all the way in from Fernvale to Brisbane today.
Id like to personally encourage as many Queenslanders as possible to follow the lead of Bill and Lyn by becoming Maroon Members. Our squad certainly enjoys the added support and colour that the growing membership base generates.
QRL chief executive officer Robert Moore said membership was the only way for fans to guarantee their seats to a match in Brisbane next year.
We see membership as the way of the future, Moore said.
Not only does it provide fans with great packaging options and extras, but it should give supporters a feeling of satisfaction as those who sign up are directly contributing to our development programs at grassroots level.
Revenue is directed back into growing the game and ensuring that our fans have many more champion players to watch at Origin and international level in years to come.
Moore said there would also be a general release of tickets (non-membership) to the general public early next year.
These tickets will be in high demand, so our advice is to look closely at Membership options first as that is the only way to fully guarantee your seat, Moore said.
Tickets available to the general public will range from $65 (concession) to $265. The full list of ticket prices for all categories will be made available closer to the release date early next year.
The new 2014 ticket prices reflect the true value of Origin and puts our game on par with other premium entertainment and sporting events.
Having said that, were also mindful of ensuring affordability for families and thats why the cheapest ticket is $80 with concession $65.
