A double header in the National Rugby League (NRL) refers to when two matches are played back-to-back at the same venue on the same day. Double headers are a popular way for the NRL to schedule matches, as they allow fans to watch more than one game by only attending one venue. They are also beneficial for broadcasting partners as it provides them with more content.
Double headers usually take place on weekends and public holidays when there are multiple games scheduled. The NRL will group teams and matches together at certain venues based on factors like team popularity, expected crowd numbers, and stadium availability.
Reasons for Double Headers in the NRL
There are several key reasons why the NRL utilizes double headers as part of its match scheduling:
Maximizing Attendance and Revenue
By having two matches take place, it encourages more fans to attend the venue and for a longer period of time. This increases overall match attendance, concession sales and merchandise sales. Two matches means more content and entertainment for fans.
TV Broadcasting
Television networks benefit from double headers as it provides them with back-to-back live content. This fills more of their programming schedule and attracts greater viewer numbers. Networks are willing to pay more for the rights to broadcast additional matches.
Promoting the Game
Scheduling multiple matches at the one venue allows the NRL to maximize exposure of the competition. It’s an opportunity to attract new fans and showcase the sport to a wider audience.
Efficient Use of Resources
Double headers reduce operational costs involved in setting up stadia for matches. Things like security, ticketing, food & beverage services can all be shared between the two matches.
When Double Headers Occur in the NRL Season
While double headers can take place anytime throughout the 25+ week NRL regular season, they tend to be more concentrated during certain periods:
Opening Rounds
The first two rounds traditionally feature multiple double headers as fans are excited for the new season and there are no byes or representative duties. ANZ Stadium and Suncorp Stadium will often host back-to-back Friday night matches.
Public Holidays
Public holidays like Easter Monday, Anzac Day and Labour Day have become big double header days. Large crowds are enticed by having multiple games to enjoy and make a whole day of NRL action.
End of Season
As the regular season winds down, double headers become more frequent in the final 5-6 weeks. This allows the NRL to maximize primetime matches as teams battle for finals positions.
Notable NRL Double Header Venues
Certain stadiums around Australia have become known for regularly hosting blockbuster NRL double headers each season:
ANZ Stadium (Sydney)
The largest stadium in the NRL has capacity for over 80,000 fans. ANZ is the premier destination for double headers during State of Origin, finals football, opening weekend and public holidays.
Suncorp Stadium (Brisbane)
Up to 52,000 fans pack this rectangle stadium which is considered one of the most intense atmospheres. Magic Round and sellout Broncos matches make Suncorp a prime double header location.
AAMI Park (Melbourne)
In the NRL’s newest market, AAMI Park has brought league to the heart of Melbourne. Its 30,000 capacity makes it perfect for showcasing double headers down south.
Venue | City | Seating Capacity |
---|---|---|
ANZ Stadium | Sydney | 83,500 |
Suncorp Stadium | Brisbane | 52,500 |
AAMI Park | Melbourne | 30,050 |
How Teams are Selected for Double Headers
When creating the NRL draw each season, the league uses several factors to determine which teams will participate in double headers:
Match Attractiveness
Clubs with larger supporter bases or rivalry matches will be priorities for double headers to help ensure a good crowd. Teams like Broncos, Eels, Rabbitohs and Roosters generally feature more.
Travel Considerations
If a team is already traveling for an away game, they may be scheduled for a double header to avoid excess travel. Sometimes away matches are made double headers to help balance a club’s fixturing.
Stadium Deals
If a stadium has an existing deal with the NRL for a certain number of matches, teams may be allocated double headers at that venue as part of satisfying the arrangement.
Recent Performance
Teams that made the finals the previous season or have started the new season well will likely be handed more attractive double header timeslots to showcase high quality matches.
Pros and Cons of Double Header Fixturing
While double headers have become a mainstay in the NRL, there are both advantages and disadvantages to scheduling matches this way for the code:
Pros
- Increased attendance, atmosphere and revenue
- Higher TV ratings with back-to-back content
- Opportunity to grow the game’s exposure
- Efficient use of stadium resources
Cons
- Risk of fan fatigue for second match
- Less recovery time for players
- Unfair burden on some teams with more travel
- Oversaturation of certain markets
Double Header Matches are Important to the NRL
Double header matches have become engrained as an integral part of the NRL fixture. The league relies on them to maximize broadcast deals, appease stadium partners, build the brand and give fans more chance to experience the game live.
While criticized at times, the NRL will continue to lean on double headers as a key scheduling tactic for the foreseeable future. Their success points to double header matches maintaining a vital role in the growth and exposure of rugby league across Australia.
Conclusion
Double headers provide the NRL with an opportunity to showcase the game to bigger crowds, generate more revenue and satisfy broadcasting demands. Major venues like ANZ Stadium, Suncorp Stadium and AAMI Park have become synonymous with blockbuster back-to-back matches.
The NRL strategically schedules double headers based on factors like team popularity, travel, recent performance and stadium deals. There are clear benefits but also challenges that come with playing consecutive matches on the same day. Overall, double headers look set to remain a core part of the NRL calendar and how the code delivers its product to fans.