Koori Knockout ‘more than just footy’
64 teams will compete at the Koori Knockout in Tamworth this week in a celebration of rugby league, culture, connection, and community.
The event will not just showcase the sport though, the festival will also feature Indigenous businesses, stalls and marquees, different types of food and a traditional canteen.
Dean Widders playing for Parramatta.
“It’s been amazing to call the football and contribute to the event. It’s one of the biggest events on the Indigenous calendar but also on the rugby league calendar,” former Indigenous player Dean Widders told Zero Tackle.
“It’s a great way for people still participating in rugby league that might not have the time to play for a full season or train week in, week out.
Walgett won the tournament in 2024.
“They get to go back and play with their family or guys that you grew up with but never had the chance to play football with because of where you lived or stuff like that.”
The 53rd iteration of the event will see a number of up-and-coming young Indigenous players on the field, including South Sydney’s Latrell Siegwalt.
Keiran Mundine and Widders’ son Dean Jnr will also take part in the event that will be televised on NITV On Demand on Sunday and Monday (October 5-6).
