With a little over a month to go until kick-off for the new season, Rugby Vic is excited to unveil the draw for the 2024 VAILO Dewar Shield.
The 14-round home and away season commencing Saturday 20 April features a three-week finals campaign, with Semi-Finals slated for 10 August, Preliminary Finals on 17 August and the Grand Final taking place on 24 August.
Headlining the return of Victoria’s Premier Men’s Rugby competition is the 2023 Grand Final rematch, with reigning back-to-back premiers Harlequin Rugby Club beginning their quest for a three-peat against Endeavour Hills at Frog Hollow Reserve.
Three celebratory rounds will be held across the 15-round season – Pride Round (4 May), Respect Round (25 May) and NAIDOC Round (6 July) - celebrating the diversity of Victorian Rugby Union.
Rugby Victoria Acting CEO Shelley Nowlan said the 2024 season is destined to go to another level, with all clubs determined to lay down the challenge to the back-to-back premiers.
“The 2024 season of the VAILO Dewar Shield is shaping as one of the most intriguing in recent years,” said Nowlan.
"With pre-seasons tournaments just around the corner, we are excited to preview the storylines that may unfold in 2024 season proper.”
Speaking on Rugby Vic’s celebratory rounds, Nowlan said these are significant to our Victorian Rugby community.
“Pride Round, Respect Round and NAIDOC Round are key to bringing the Victorian Rugby Union community together, to celebrate the diversity of our game and remain true to the values of Victorian Rugby as a game for all.”
The VAILO Dewar Shield, alongside the remainder of Rugby Victoria’s Senior and Junior competitions, will have a week off for the King’s Birthday long weekend - 8 June - as well as the 13 July with the Wallabies set to take on Wales at AAMI Park.
Keep an eye out for draws for Victoria’s Premier Women’s Competitions – the Lindroth Cup and Lindroth 10s, coming soon!
