GoodNews: much-awaited! Jason Ryles spoke to the media ahead of our Round 23 match-up against the Cowboys. As he finally obviously makes Excited promise for Indigenous Round Double-Header. See full details..

GoodNews: much-awaited! Jason Ryles spoke to the media ahead of our Round 23 match-up against the Cowboys. As he finally obviously makes Excited promise for Indigenous Round Double-Header. See full details..

 

 

Melbourne Storm assistant coach Jason Ryles says the club is buzzing ahead of this week’s Indigenous Round double-header, as the NRL prepares to celebrate First Nations culture in style.

Speaking to the media before the Storm’s Round 23 clash against the Newcastle Knights, Ryles emphasised the significance of the occasion — not just as a football spectacle, but as a powerful cultural moment for players, fans, and the wider community.

> “It’s a special week,” Ryles said. “Indigenous Round is about much more than rugby league. It’s about recognising the incredible contribution of First Nations people to our game, and celebrating their stories, traditions, and connection to the land.”

 

A Packed Day of Footy and Culture

The NRL’s Indigenous Round double-header will see two blockbuster games played back-to-back on Saturday at McDonald Jones Stadium. The Storm’s meeting with the Knights will follow the earlier clash between the Newcastle Knights NRLW side and the Sydney Roosters, creating a festival-like atmosphere for fans.

Pre-game festivities are set to include a traditional Welcome to Country, didgeridoo performances, and a smoking ceremony on the field, alongside special Indigenous-themed jerseys designed by local artists.

> “The jerseys tell a story,” Ryles explained. “Ours reflects connection — between the playing group, the club, and the community. It’s something the boys wear with real pride.”

 

Storm’s Indigenous Links

While the Storm have a strong tradition of Indigenous representation in their squad over the years, Ryles noted that the week gives everyone — regardless of heritage — the chance to reflect and learn.

> “Players like Josh Addo-Carr, Will Chambers, and Greg Inglis have all left a mark here, and we’ve still got young Indigenous talent coming through,” he said. “But this week’s about all of us embracing the culture and the message it brings.”

 

The club has taken part in several community initiatives in the lead-up to the match, including school visits, youth workshops, and cultural education sessions led by Indigenous elders.

—

On the Field Focus

While the off-field significance is clear, Ryles made it clear that the Storm are also firmly focused on the football. With the finals fast approaching, Melbourne are aiming to secure a top-four finish, making the clash with Newcastle a crucial one.

The Knights, who are pushing for a finals spot of their own, will be boosted by the home crowd and their own Indigenous Round celebrations.

> “It’s going to be a high-energy game,” Ryles said. “Newcastle have been in good form, and the atmosphere is going to be electric. We’ll need to be at our best for the full 80 minutes.”

 

A Week to Remember

For Ryles, the combination of a finals-shaping contest and the cultural celebration makes this one of the most anticipated rounds of the season.

> “We’re proud to be part of it,” he said. “When you see the players run out in their Indigenous jerseys, when you hear the music, see the art, and feel the connection — it reminds you that rugby league is more than just a sport. It’s a community.”

 

Kick-off for the Storm v Knights NRL match is scheduled for 7:35 pm following the conclusion of the NRLW fixture. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the full Indigenous Round experience.