Cronulla’s premiership-winning captain Paul Gallen launched the NRL season from Martin Place on Thursday afternoon.
Gallen was joined by Australia and Melbourne captain Cameron Smith as well as the captains of the other 14 NRL teams at the official season launch.
Hundreds of fans were joined by NRL CEO Todd Greenberg who said recent history had proved how important the fans and members were to their teams’ fortunes.
“Our fans and members make a difference every week,” he said.
“They all ride the highs and lows of every team… they celebrate every win and feel every defeat. The mantra for us this year is let’s make history. It is fitting as it suggests a collective effort. Our fans, our players, our clubs, are in the fight together.
“Our fans and members can and will make a difference to those incredible things that our superstars do on the field.”
The Sharks start their NRL title defence in the season opener against Brisbane at Southern Cross Group Stadium next Thursday night.
St George Illawarra start their season when they host Penrith at UOW Jubilee Oval, Kogarah next Saturday.
