Super Rugby Pacific to Celebrate Grassroots Game with Inaugural Club Rugby Round in 2026
The Super Rugby Pacific competition is set to deepen its connection with the community game, announcing the introduction of a dedicated Club Rugby Round in 2026 alongside the return of the popular Kids Round. This initiative underscores the league’s commitment to fostering the foundation of the sport and recognizing the vital role local clubs play in developing talent.
The inaugural Club Rugby Round will take place during Round 4 of the 2026 season, commencing the week of March 2nd, 2026. All 11 Super Rugby Pacific clubs will actively engage with their local counterparts, aiming to spotlight the contributions of grassroots players and volunteers and boost registration numbers for the upcoming season.
According to a league release, the week will be filled with activities designed to bridge the gap between professional and community rugby. Club rugby participants will be featured in pre-game and half-time entertainment across Australia and New Zealand, providing a platform to showcase local talent. In a touching tribute, Super Rugby Pacific players will proudly wear the socks of the community clubs that played a significant role in their development.
Several clubs are planning unique events to celebrate the occasion. The Highlanders will host a sprint race to identify the fastest club player in their region, while relay races are planned in Sydney and Canberra, promising spirited competition and local bragging rights.
The ever-popular Kids Round will return in Round 15, taking place in May 2026. This event will focus on engaging the next generation of rugby enthusiasts, offering opportunities for young fans to participate in game-day activities, including designing graphics and playlists. “We are delighted to confirm the introduction of Club Rugby Round and the return of Kids Round as we count down to the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season,” stated a senior league official.
The league emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of local clubs. “Club Rugby Round is a special opportunity to connect with our local rugby communities and celebrate the clubs, players and volunteers who are the foundation of our game,” the official continued. “In Round 4 we want to see those club colours being worn with pride, learn more about the legends of community rugby and inspire more people to get involved with their local club.”
The Kids Round is also seen as a crucial component of long-term growth. “Kids Round has been a great success for our competition over the last few years and in 2026 we’ll be focused on having more fun and creating more unforgettable moments for the younger generations.”
Round 4 Fixtures – Club Rugby Round (March 6-7, 2026)
- Chiefs v Moana Pasifika – 5:05 PM AEDT / 7:05 PM NZDT, Friday, March 6 – FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton
- NSW Waratahs v Hurricanes – 7:35 PM AEDT / 9:35 PM NZDT, Friday, March 6 – Allianz Stadium, Sydney
- Highlanders v Western Force – 2:35 PM AEDT / 4:35 PM NZDT, Saturday, March 7 – Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
- Blues v Crusaders – 5:05 PM AEDT / 7:05 PM NZDT, Saturday, March 7 – Eden Park, Auckland
- ACT Brumbies v Queensland Reds – 7:35 PM AEDT / 9:35 PM NZDT, Saturday, March 7 – GIO Stadium, Canberra
Round 15 Fixtures – Kids Round (May 22-23, 2026)
- Crusaders v Chiefs – 5:05 PM AEST / 7:05 PM NZST, Friday, May 22 – One NZ Stadium, Christchurch
- NSW Waratahs v ACT Brumbies – 7:35 PM AEST / 9:35 PM NZST, Friday, May 22 – Allianz Stadium, Sydney
- Moana Pasifika v Queensland Reds – 2:35 PM AEST / 4:35 PM NZST, Saturday, May 23 – North Harbour Stadium, Auckland
- Hurricanes v Highlanders – 5:05 PM AEST / 7:05 PM NZST, Saturday, May 23 – Sky Stadium, Wellington
- Western Force v Fijian Drua – 5:35 PM AWST / 7:35 PM AEST / 9:35 PM NZST, Saturday, May 23 – HBF Park, Perth
The full 2026 Super Rugby Pacific draw is available here. These initiatives demonstrate a proactive approach to strengthening the link between the professional game and the passionate community that sustains it, ensuring a bright future for rugby in the region.
