The Board of Wheelchair Rugby League Australia (WRLA) is pleased to announce the affirmation of Anna Fitzgerald in the role of Chief Executive Officer.
This follows a successful six-month tenure as Interim CEO, during which Anna has reshaped the organisation, setting strong foundations for the future development and growth of the sport.
WRLA Chair Darren Gocher said the Board was delighted with Fitzgerald’s performance to date, acknowledging her strategic leadership, operational delivery, and engagement within the sport and broader community.
“Anna has brought clarity, momentum, and a forward-looking approach to WRLA,” he said. “We’re excited about the direction she is setting for the organisation as we build toward the 2026 Rugby League World Cup and beyond.”
Critical strategic initiatives, national program and event delivery, management of grant funding, and improvement in stakeholder relationships have all been considerably progressed by Fitzgerald since her initial appointment. She has also contributed to the growing visibility and profile of NRL Wheelchair.
Fitzgerald has almost 20 years of experience working across sport, financial services, tertiary education, and regulatory environments.
She has held senior executive positions with national sporting organisations, delivering large change initiatives, including complex governance reform, leading strategy, major event and community program delivery.
Reacting to her extended term, Fitzgerald said: “It’s been an honour to lead WRLA through this period of great change. I’m looking forward to continuing the journey with our Board, community, and stakeholders as we pursue growth, inclusion, and excellence in Wheelchair Rugby League.”
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for WRLA, providing continuity and strategic direction as the organisation prepares for increased program delivery and major international competition, including the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, to be hosted in Australia.
Before then, Australia will welcome England’s world champion Wheelchair Rugby League team for a two-Test Ashes series on the Gold Coast, scheduled for 30 October and 2 November.
This highly anticipated tour marks an exciting milestone in the sport’s development and highlights the growing strength and international presence of Wheelchair Rugby League in Australia.
