Wagga Wagga is set to come alive once again as it welcomes the highly anticipated 2025 NSW Touch Football Junior State Cup – Southern Conference. This prestigious junior sporting event, now in its seventh year in Wagga, promises a weekend of intense competition, community engagement, and economic benefits for the region.
Wagga Wagga Mayor Dallas Tout expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the event again, highlighting the strong relationship between the city and NSW Touch Football. “It’s fantastic to see NSW Touch back here for the seventh time. This ongoing partnership is a testament to Wagga’s capability to host major sporting events,” Mayor Tout said.
The Junior State Cup is a significant event for the local economy, with an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 visitors expected to descend on Wagga for the weekend. The influx of players, officials, and supporters provides a major boost to accommodation providers, restaurants, and businesses across the city. Dallas Tout acknowledged the importance of these events in reinforcing Wagga’s reputation as a premier sporting destination. “Wagga has long been a hub for sport, and we are proving that we can host large-scale events across a range of disciplines,” he said.
Dean Russell, General Manager of NSW Touch Football, underscored the growth and impact of the event. “We’re thrilled with the participation numbers this year—180 teams, approximately 3,200 players, officials, and team management, and a total event attendance of around 10,000 people,” Russell stated.
He emphasised the accessibility of Wagga Wagga for teams from across the state, noting strong representation from the southwest, Sydney-based teams like Penrith and Balmain, and even new participants from Moruya.
Dean Russell also touched on the high caliber of talent competing in the tournament. “This event is a breeding ground for future touch football stars. Many of our State of Origin and national representatives began their journeys here, so it’s highly likely we’re watching the next generation of elite players,” he said.
The success of the Junior State Cup in Wagga has solidified the city’s standing as a premier host for major sporting events. “Our partnership with NSW Touch Football has grown stronger over the years, and we continue to refine and improve the event each time,” Dallas Tout said. “We look forward to many more years of hosting this incredible competition.”
As the 2025 Junior State Cup unfolds, players, coaches, and spectators can expect a weekend filled with top-tier touch football action, community spirit, and a vibrant atmosphere. With the strong backing of local council, NSW Touch Football, and the broader Wagga community, the event is set to be another milestone in the city’s rich sporting history.