URGENT UPDATE: The ProTen Community Cup has just released the highly anticipated draw for its 8th season in 2026. With teams gearing up for a thrilling season, the format reverts to its traditional six-team setup, igniting excitement among fans and players alike.
This year marks a significant return with Narrandera rejoining Group 20, bringing the total number of teams back to six. Each team will compete in six rounds, facing off against one another twice while squaring off against the remaining teams just once. The stakes are high as the competition promises intense matchups and fierce rivalries.
Key fixtures are set, including the knockout hosted by Goolgowi on May 23 and the Grand Final taking place in Ivanhoe on August 1. The committee has strategically chosen to keep the Grand Final during the Group 20/Group 9 general bye weekend, allowing fans to fully engage with the culmination of this season’s action.
The women’s league is also set to make waves, with Deniliquin committed to fielding a women’s team for the first time. The matchups are compelling, including a baptism of fire for Deniliquin as they face three-time premiers Barellan in Round 1.
Men’s Highlights Include:
– **Rankins Springs** kicks off their centennial celebration with a thrilling Round 1 clash against arch-rivals Goolgowi.
– In Round 3, the 2025 champions, Rankins Springs, take on Barellan in a match that promises to be a spectacular showdown.
– Hillston aims to make a statement against Ivanhoe in Round 4 after a promising improvement last season.
Women’s Highlights Include:
– The Deniliquin women’s team faces a formidable challenge in their debut match against Barellan.
– Hillston’s women will look to showcase their progress against the experienced Ivanhoe side in Round 4.
Fans and players are urged to mark their calendars for these crucial dates:
– **Knockout**: Goolgowi, May 23
– **Round 1**: Ivanhoe, May 30
– **General Bye**: June 6
– **Round 2**: Deniliquin, June 13
– **Round 3**: Rankins Springs, June 20
– **Round 4**: Hillston, June 27
– **Round 5**: Barellan, July 4
– **Round 6**: Goolgowi, July 11
– **Semi-Finals**: July 18
– **Preliminary Final**: July 25
– **Grand Final**: Ivanhoe, August 1
This season promises to be one for the books with its return to traditional roots and the inclusion of new talent. As the community rallies behind their teams, the excitement is palpable. Be sure to stay tuned for more updates as the season approaches, and prepare for an unforgettable 2026 ProTen Cup!
