The 2016 State of Origin Series was launched today at ANZ Stadium in Sydney, alongside a marketing campaign designed to engage all supporters of the game.
NRL CEO Todd Greenberg launched the “This is Origin” campaign, alongside NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley and captain Paul Gallen, XXXX Queensland Maroons coach Kevin Walters and captain Cameron Smith as well as the Hon NSW Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events and Sport, Stuart Ayres.
Mr Greenberg said the campaign was a creative platform which enabled everyone involved in the game, from players to fans, to share their Origin memories.
Mr Greenberg said it was a significant day for the game and for the Origin series.
“State of Origin is the biggest annual sporting event in Australia,” Mr Greenberg said. “Last year more than 220,000 people attended Origin while 12 million people watched the series across the country.
“We want this game and this concept to reach as many people as possible and we want them all to share their own Origin memories this year.
“Whether you’re a player, a coach, a Blatchy Blue, or a farmer who travels from regional Queensland to watch the game, Origin is an event which brings people together and provides a spectacular like no other.”
The campaign, which will commence today and culminate with a spectacular pre-game show at all three Origin matches, will include strong digital and social elements, encouraging fans to share their Origin moments.
Blues Coach Laurie Daley said: "We are excited to be playing two games at the home of the Blues and clearly our fans are too with the two-game Sydney package selling well.
"Playing in front of a full stadium of loud, proud Blues fans ... that is Origin."
New Maroons coach Kevin Walters said he was relishing the prospect of his first series in charge of the squad.
“Playing two games in Sydney presents a big challenge for us, but it's one the entire group is looking forward to,” Walters said. “History shows just how important the opening game of the series is so it's crucial we get off to a positive start.
“In recent years we've had some excellent support at ANZ Stadium and we hope to see a sea of maroon once again in the Queensland supporter bays.”
Tickets are available at http://tickets.nrl.com/
State of Origin series:
Game I – ANZ Stadium, Sydney: Wednesday 1 June
Game II – Suncorp Stadium: Wednesday 22 June
Game III – ANZ Stadium: Wednesday 13 July
