100 years of the Jets

Australia’s oldest rugby league football team may be struggling to retain their top four position in this year’s NSW Cup, but nothing could dampen the Newtown Jets year long centenary celebrations.

Originally christened the “Bluebags”, the Newtown Jets celebrated the centenary of their foundation in exactly the same room at Newtown Town Hall where the inaugural meeting of the club had taken place back on January 8, 1908.

In attendance were political leaders, former players and officials, and a crowd of Jets supporters, to toast the 100th anniversary of the foundation of this remarkably enduring Sydney sporting institution.

The Official Centenary program also included a presence at the National Rugby League's Fan Day, the Bumper 2008 Season Launch, participation in the Official Australian Rugby League Centenary Plaques Program and the Jets’ Official Centenary Dinner in July.

Sports historian and writer Terry Williams launched a pictorial history of the Jets last month to celebrate the club’s 100 years. Through Blue Eyes recounts the hardships, triumphs and gritty spirit of this definitive battlers’ team.

In their history the Newtown Jets won two first grade premierships in the NSW Rugby League competition until they were suspended in October 1983 following financial difficulties.  Since re-entering the NSW Cup league in 1991 they have won four premierships and were twice preliminary finalists.

Most recently the Newtown Jets have signed a five-year deal as a feeder club to the NRL Sydney Roosters.

Centenary celebrations will culminate at the annual Reunion Players and Supporters Day at the Jets' final home game of the year at Henson Park on September 6 against the Balmain Ryde Tigers.

For more information about the Newtown Jets’ history, membership and playing schedule visit the Newtown Jets website.

Through Blue Eyes and other official Jets merchandise can be purchased at Newtown Jets Clothing Online.

And make sure you fire up the Newtown Jets theme song before you head to Henson Park to cheer on the boys!  

(Image by Gary Sutherland)