100 years of the Charter Hall Shute Shield will be celebrated with a three-week finals series featuring the top 6 teams.
The finals series will culminate at Leichhardt Oval, 3pm Saturday 26 August when a champion will lift the shield.
Grand Final day will feature all Grade competitions with Fourth Grade, Third Grade and Second Grade to be played on August 26 in the lead up to First Grade.
All colts competitions will mirror six-team finals series, with Grand Finals to be held on 27 August.
General Manager of Sydney Rugby Union, Peter Watkins, says it is a fitting way to mark 100 years of the Shute Shield.
“The Shute Shield is rich in history and stories across the 100 years and it is important they are celebrated,” he said.
“Season 2023 has been one of the closest Shute Shield competitions in recent memory. Having all teams battle across the concluding weeks of the competition will mean the top six is unlikely to be known until the final whistle is blown in round 18.
“For our fans, it means they can get along and support their team in the traditional 3pm time slot. With the entire Charter Hall Shute Shield Finals series to be aired Ad-Free, Live and On-Demand on Stan Sport and one match each weekend on Nine GEM.
“Thanks to our broadcast partners Nine, Stan Sport and Rugby Australia - following this season's finals has never been easier for our fans.”
The Finals structure looks likely to come down to the final round with only 10 points between first and eight. Significantly Hunter Wildfires are looking to make their finals debut, currently leading and clubs like the Two Blues looking to secure a top 6 birth and reach the finals for the first time since 2012.
“It would be fitting in our 100th year to see clubs like the Two Blues feature at the pointy end of the season,” Watkins said.
“There are no easy fixtures in 2023 and that’s a trend we want to see continue beyond this season.
“Leichhardt Oval also offers the perfect stage for the biggest match of the year. We saw in 2022 how fantastic the atmosphere was for Sydney University, Gordon and Shute Shield fans alike.
“I’m sure every fan is eager to see their club feature on that last Saturday in August.”
With the bye round now behind us, teams vying for the top six spots will be rejuvenated ahead of the run for finals.
