URGENT UPDATE: The 2026 representative schedule for the Western Rams has just been announced, detailing matches for both senior and junior teams in the highly anticipated Country Championships. The Rams will compete in the men’s and women’s championships, as well as the junior Laurie Daley Cup (under-18), Andrew Johns Cup (under-16), and Regional Lisa Fiaola Cup (under-17 girls).
This year brings heightened expectations and tension, following a dramatic semi-final loss last season to the Newcastle Rebels. The match, which ended with significant controversy and suspensions totaling 20 weeks for Rams players Billy Carberry and Dylan Kelly due to eye-gouging charges, has set the stage for a charged atmosphere this season.
In a heated aftermath, Rebels coach Garth Brennan criticized the Rams’ tactics as “disgraceful,” while Rams coach Kurt Hancock defended his team’s gameplay, stating he would never instruct players to engage in violence.
As the Rams gear up for their first match on Saturday, March 13, 2026, they will face the Central Coast Roosters at Carrington Park in Bathurst. The Country Championships will continue in a knockout format, heightening the stakes for all teams involved.
Earlier in the year, the juniors will kick off their campaigns on Saturday, January 31, at a junior Magic Round at David Campese Oval in Queanbeyan. The under-16 boys’ teams will clash with the Roosters, while the under-17 girls will face the North Coast Bulldogs. Each junior side will participate in five rounds before heading to the finals on March 21/22.
The Western women’s team is on a quest for a third consecutive Country Championships title, starting their season against Riverina on Saturday, February 21, 2026. After dominating the competition last year with a sensational 46-6 victory over the Northern Rivers Titans in the grand final, expectations are high. Their opening match at Jock Colley Field in Parkes will be a highlight of the day, as both the women and junior teams face the Bulls.
Following their opener, the women will also compete against Monaro in Canberra on March 7, with hopes of securing a spot in the finals. The finals weekend for all competitions is set for March 21/22, with potential semi-final matches at Mudgee’s Glen Willow Stadium, along with other venues like The Oaks and Lismore.
As excitement builds for the 2026 season, fans eagerly anticipate how the Rams will respond after last season’s tumultuous end. The grand finals are scheduled for March 28, 2026, at a location yet to be confirmed. Stay tuned for updates as the action unfolds!
