Southern Zone Rugby League (SZRL) is proud to formally announce the launch of the 2026 SZRL Academy, delivered in affiliation with the One New Zealand Warriors. 

The Academy continues to strengthen the Southern Zone performance pathway, providing identified athletes with a structured, high-performance development environment aligned with NRL Junior Pathway standards. 

The announcement of the first intake for 2026 marks an important milestone for the programme. Selection into the SZRL Academy recognises athletes who have demonstrated strong performance, commitment, and character within their respective districts. However, as SZRL General Manager Zara Fa’avae-Mika emphasised, selection is only the beginning. 

“Being selected into the Academy is recognition of potential - but it also comes with responsibility. The hard work starts now. Our athletes will be challenged physically, mentally, and personally as we prepare them for higher honours.” 

Expansion into Te Tauihu District 

For the first time, the 2026 Academy intake includes athletes from the Te Tauihu District, with four players selected across Nelson and Marlborough. 

This expansion represents a significant step in strengthening the district pathway and ensuring talented players across the upper South Island have direct access to elite development opportunities within the Southern Zone framework. 

The inclusion of Te Tauihu athletes reflects SZRL’s commitment to equitable high-performance access and regional growth across all districts. 

Building the Next Generation 

The SZRL Academy is designed to: 

• Align Southern Zone athletes with NRL Junior Pathway expectations 

• Enhance physical preparation, game understanding, and leadership capability 

• Provide exposure to professional standards and environments 

• Develop strong people first, strong players second 

Through its affiliation with the One NZ Warriors, the Academy ensures athletes are connected to a recognised NRL Junior Pathway, while remaining grounded in and accountable to their local districts. 

Acknowledging Key Supporters 

SZRL extends its sincere thanks to its 2026 Academy Hub Sponsors, whose support is instrumental in delivering the programme: 

• Rangatahi Leadership Group, powered by Active Southland & ILT

Their contribution enables the Academy to provide high-quality coaching, leadership development, and performance support across the Southern Zone, helping to shape the next generation of rugby league athletes and community leaders. 

The 2026 SZRL Academy signals another step forward for rugby league in the South Island. With expanded district representation and strengthened alignment to NRL Junior standards, the programme continues to raise the bar for athlete development across the region. 

The future of Southern Zone rugby league is in capable hands - and the standard rises again in 2026. 

Article added: Thursday 12 February 2026