Autumn Priority Registration

March 4, 2026 - 3 days ago

DON’T MISS YOUR SPOT FOR AUTUMN! 🍂

Hey Summer Captains!

We’ve loved seeing your teams smashing goals, having a laugh, and bringing the good vibes all season long. Now it’s time to keep the fun rolling because Priority Registration for our Autumn leagues is here! 🥳

This exclusive window is just for our current teams, giving you the first chance to lock in your spot before leagues open to the public and start selling out.

So if you want to keep your team together and back on the field this Autumn, make sure you jump on this!

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📅 PRIORITY REGISTRATION DATES

Priority registration will run from:

Sunday 9th March → Sunday 16th March

You’ll receive your priority registration link on Sunday afternoon/evening, ready for registration to open at midnight on Sunday night.

Once it opens, you’ll have until Monday the 16th of March to secure your team’s place.

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💸 WIN $200 CASHBACK FOR YOUR TEAM

To celebrate the new season we’re doing a random prize draw for FIVE lucky teams to win:

💰 $200 cashback off their team registration fees

The only catch?

You must be priority registered to go into the draw.

So if you register during the priority window, your team is automatically in the running. Easy.

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WHY PRIORITY REGISTRATION IS CLUTCH

Priority rego is all about making sure our current legends get first dibs before leagues open to the public.

By locking in during this window you get:

✅ Guaranteed game time – avoid the sell-out stress
✅ Chance to win $200 back for your team
✅ Keep your team together for another season
✅ Secure your preferred league before it fills

Our Autumn leagues fill quickly every season, so priority rego is the best way to make sure you don’t miss out.

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PRIORITY REGISTRATION POLICY

To keep everything smooth:

• Only captains receive the priority link (but you can forward it if you change captains)
• Links will be sent Sunday afternoon/night
• Registration opens at midnight Sunday night
• You must register during the priority window to be eligible for the $200 prize draw

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So rally the crew, keep an eye on your inbox Sunday afternoon, and get ready to lock your team in for Autumn.

We can’t wait to see you back out there doing what Urban Rec teams do best… having more fun than everyone else. 😎

See you this season!

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Price Increase for 2026

November 17, 2025 - 3 months ago

Hey Legends 👋

We wanted to take a quick moment to chat openly about something important — our team registration fees for 2026.

Over the past six years, Urban Rec Wollongong has been hit with a long list of increasing costs — especially field hire fees (which have gone up significantly thanks to council and venue increases). Up until now, we’ve done everything we can to absorb those costs ourselves, without passing them onto our players.

Unfortunately, we’ve finally hit a point where we need to make a small adjustment to keep things running smoothly.

💸 What’s Changing

Starting from Summer 2026, our team registration prices will increase by just 10%.
To put that in perspective — that’s only about $10 extra per person for your entire team. Not exactly a wallet-buster, but it’ll go a long way in helping us cover venue hire, lighting, equipment, and all the other behind-the-scenes bits that make Urban Rec run.

🔒 Lock In the Current Price

Here’s the good news — we’re giving our current Spring 2025 teams the opportunity to lock in the current price ($990 for most leagues) for one more season!

If your team registers during Priority Registration Week (December 5th–12th) and puts down a deposit, you’ll secure the old pricing for Summer 2026. That’s our way of saying thanks for being part of the Urban Rec fam and sticking with us.

After December 12th, the updated pricing will kick in across all leagues.

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We know price changes are never fun, but we’ve worked hard to keep this as minimal as possible while still making sure Urban Rec continues to deliver fun, well-run, social sport for everyone in the Illawarra.

As always, thanks for your support, your smiles, and your dodgy team names — we couldn’t do this without you ❤️

See you on the field,
Dan & The Urban Rec Wollongong Crew

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2025 T-Shirt Design Competition

November 4, 2024 - one year ago

In 2025 we are inviting budding creatives from our club to submit their t-shirt designs for our 2024 exclusive merchandise! In previous years we have had everything from GOAT designs, a Can Man Series, and custom championship designs. 

If you would love to see your designs printed on thousands of shirts across the country, please submit your designs to [email protected]

Design Brief. 

• Maximum 5 colours

• Embodies our brand and fun first culture

• Could include messaging about winning (wither fun points or league champions)

• Will look good printed on varying shirt colours

• Opportunity to expand design into a 4 season series

• Something our members will be excited to receive and wear

• Includes the Urban Rec logo and name. 

• Can be double sided printing

If selected, you will need to be able to make edits at management's discretion and direction. 

Entries close on November 30th, winners will receive a $500 Urban Rec Voucher!

Here are some submissions from our head office, think you can do better?

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WHERE TO PLAY FLAG GRIDIRON IN WOLLONGONG: YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE 2024 SPRING SEASON!

August 19, 2024 - one year ago

Where to Play Flag Gridiron in Wollongong: Your Ultimate Guide to the 2024 Spring Season!

Attention Wollongong! The wait is over—Flag Gridiron is making a triumphant return this Spring Season, kicking off in October 2024. If you're eager to dive into the world of Flag Football without the bruises of traditional tackle football, we’ve got the perfect spot for you to showcase your skills. Urban Rec Wollongong is thrilled to announce that this season’s games will be hosted at the University of Wollongong. Get ready to hit the field and experience Flag Football Wollongong style!

1. Flag Football Wollongong Venue

This season, all the Flag American Football action will take place at the University of Wollongong. This prime location offers a fantastic playing surface and ample space for both intense matches and post-game celebrations. Our leagues cater to all skill levels and genders! Oval 2 is your go-to destination for all things Flag Gridiron. Make sure to mark your calendars and check Urban Rec Wollongong’s website and social media for specific game schedules and venue details.

2. How to Join the Action

Ready to jump into the Flag Gridiron frenzy? Signing up is easy! Head over to the registration page on the Urban Rec Wollongong website to express your interest in playing Flag Football this Spring. Whether you’re joining as a team or an individual that needs to be placed in a team, there’s a place for you on the field. This is not only a chance to stay active but also a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow football fanatics. 

3. The Best Time to Play

The 2024 Spring Season is gearing up to be the highlight of your sporting year. Games will be held on Tuesday nights starting from 6pm, providing the perfect mid-week pick-me-up. And if you’re new to Flag Football, don’t worry—the league is designed to be inclusive and welcoming to players of all experience levels.

4. Why You Should Get Involved

So, why should you get on the field this season? Flag Gridiron offers a thrilling mix of strategy and excitement with less risk than traditional tackle football. It’s the ideal sport for those who want to enjoy the competitive spirit of American football in a lighter, more fun environment. Plus, the camaraderie, playful rivalries, and unforgettable moments make it an experience you won’t want to miss.

Ready to make some epic memories? Grab your flags, rally your team, and head to the University of Wollongong for a Flag Gridiron season that promises excitement and fun. Wollongong, it’s time to show off your gridiron skills—see you on the field!

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How You Can Be Involved

January 15, 2024 - 2 years ago

Access to mental health resources remains a significant hurdle for many young Australians. The stigma surrounding mental health issues can deter people from seeking help, perpetuating a cycle of suffering in silence. This year, we’re ‘changing the game’.

Urban Rec is calling our community to come together in 2024 to support our cause. Here are some ways to help us, “Change The Game”. 

ATTEND ONE OF OUR FREE MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION SESSIONS

Each session covers the signs and symptoms of mental ill health, how to start the conversation and how to support an individual going through a mental health challenge. The next session has free tickets available now. 

Donate $50 to get a kid or an adult into ORGANISED sport

Sport is a recreational privilege, we know that. You can donate $50 which will go directly to kids or adults that do not have the money to pay for the access. Urban Rec have started the year by adding 20 vouchers for anyone who needs them. 

Attend one of our charity Tournaments

The next one is happening in Wollongong on Feb 11, The Superbowl Flag Gridiron Tournament. All the proceeds from these Charity Events are donated to OTLR. Plus, you get an amazing day out, in the sun, playing sport!

Get Involved in Mates In March (9k’s in 9 days)

This March we are partnering with OTLR for their initiative, Mates In March. We lose 9 people to suicide each month, this March, walk or run 9 kms for any 9 days during the month. Then, spread the word on social media. 

BUY MERCH FROM OUR ASSOCIATION

All the merch available within our shop goes directly to our Association, raising funds for partner charities or making sport accessible to other minorities. 

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Pulse Perks Members

January 5, 2024 - 2 years ago

Student, faculty or staff at UOW in 2024? → Join Pulse Perks! It’s an epic way to get sweet deals on campus and sometimes Pulse Perks members will score extra promotional giveaways!

And best bit about being a Pulse Perks member?!  You’ll get a cheeky discount playing with Urban Rec too!

If you’re looking to use your Pulse Perks benefit to play with Urban Rec, please note the following T&Cs:

• $15 off any registration (individual or team) – 1 per person (i.e. you cannot use your membership for another person)
• If you are registering as a team, the Pulse Perks membership = $15 off team registration – 1 per team.
  • If multiple players on your team are Pulse Perks members, each player must register as an individual player and the $15 discount will be off the regular individual player price. 
• The discount cannot be applied with other discounts.

If you have any questions, reach out to [email protected]

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TIPS FOR (ACTUALLY) SOCIAL BASKETBALL

June 30, 2023 - 2 years ago

What’s up players?!! Did you know that social basketball is played in almost all of Urban Rec’s locations around Australia? If you're keen on having a ripper time on the court and shooting hoops with your mates, then social basketball is where it's at! Whether you're a seasoned baller or just starting out, we've got a few tips to help you make the most of your game and avoid any rookie mistakes. Grab your sneakers and let's get into it!

First things first, it's all about teamwork. Our basketball leagues are more about having fun rather than winning championships (okay okay we know winning is awesome but having fun is actually better!). Make sure you communicate with your team and play off each other's strengths. 

Now, let's talk about defense! Playing solid D can make a huge difference in the game. Get in your opponent's face, use your wingspan, and don't be afraid to get a bit physical. Just don't go overboard and commit any fouls that'll earn you a trip to the bench! Keep it friendly and have a laugh along the way.

When it comes to shooting, practice makes perfect!. Hit up the local court or your backyard and work on your jump shot. Get your aim right, focus on your form, and don't forget to follow through with that flick of the wrist! If you miss a shot, no worries, mate. Keep your chin up and hustle for the rebound. There's always another opportunity to sink that three-pointer!

Another thing to keep in mind is fitness. Basketball can be a real cardio workout, so make sure you're in decent nick so you don’t let your teammates down. Run some laps, do some sprints, and get those lungs pumping. Don't forget to stretch before and after the game to avoid any injuries. The last thing you want to do is pull out of your game! That ain’t fun.

Lastly, don't be a ball hog. Sharing is caring, and in social basketball, everyone deserves a fair go. Pass the ball, involve your teammates, and make sure everyone gets their fair share of play time. Remember, the more everyone gets involved, the more fun it'll be for everyone!

So there you have it, there’s a few handy tips to keep in mind for your social basketball sessions. Play hard, have a laugh, and enjoy the banter with your mates. Just remember, it's not all about the scoreboard, but about the good times you'll have both on and off the court. Now go out there, give it a red-hot crack, and may the basketball gods be on your side!

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HOW DOES NETBALL HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT?

June 29, 2023 - 2 years ago

Did you know that you burn an estimate of 449 calories in a 45 minute netball game? That is equivalent to 4 Gin and Tonics or 2 chocolate bars!

Netball is an epic sport that can help with a common new year's resolution almost all of us have. Do you have any guesses as to what we’re referring to? It’s weightloss! Netball is fast-paced as the nature of the game involves constant running, jumping, and changes in direction. You’re going to start working up a sweat within 5 minutes of playing and while you’re catching your breath, don’t give up just yet. Be sure to remember that playing netball helps to increase cardiovascular fitness, burn fat, and improve muscle tone. 

We mentioned that running and jumping are a part of netball but how does someone actually lose weight while playing netball? The thing is, you need to move quickly and efficiently using a combination of strength, agility, and coordination to outmaneuver opponents and score points. The intensity of the game means that players can burn a significant number of calories in a relatively short amount of time, making netball a great option for those looking to lose weight. Playing for a short time and burning a lot of calories sounds like a dream come true really! 

While netball is super great for weight loss, it is also a social sport that can help to improve mental wellbeing. Joining a netball team can provide a sense of camaraderie and belonging, as well as the opportunity to meet new people and make friends. This social aspect can be particularly beneficial for those who may be struggling with weight loss and looking for support and encouragement from others. Playing netball can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can be a common trigger for overeating or unhealthy food choices.

Here at Urban Rec, we love to support our community in achieving their goals. Whether it’s about trying to lose weight, learning a new sport, making new friends or all three and much more! Netball is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels which is what Urban rec is all about! Urban Rec provides a sustainable and enjoyable way to incorporate regular exercise into your lifestyle, leading to long-term weight loss and improved overall health.

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HOW DOES SPORT IMPROVE SOCIAL SKILLS?

June 29, 2023 - 2 years ago

Hey legends! We’re always saying Urban Rec is more than sports but do you know why? There’s a reason why you’re reading our blog so we think you already know the answer to that question. We’d love to let you know how freaking amazing sport is for your social skills. Here's the lowdown on how getting in the game can level up your social game:

1. Teamwork makes the dream work: Playing sports with a team teaches you how to work together towards a common goal. You gotta communicate, coordinate, and trust your teammates. This helps you develop awesome teamwork skills that transfer to real-life situations like group projects or even just hanging out with your crew.

2. Making friends: Sports are a bloody awesome way to meet new people and make friends. Whether you're joining a team or just playing casually, you're bound to meet fellow sports enthusiasts who share your passion. You share the highs, the lows, and the bloody awesome moments, which creates a bond that's stronger than a crocodile's grip.

3. Winning and losing gracefully: Sports teach you how to handle victories and defeats. You gotta learn to celebrate the wins without being a sore winner and accept losses without throwing a major tantrum. This helps you develop sportsmanship and resilience, which are key qualities for handling setbacks in life with a positive attitude.

4. Communication on fleek: When you're in the game, communication is key, ya hear us? You’ve got to shout out plays, call for passes, and support your teammates. Effective communication on the field translates to real-life situations, where you gotta express yourself clearly, listen actively, and understand others. It's like leveling up your social interaction skills! A win-win!

5. Respect all around: Sports teach you to respect your opponents, teammates, and officials. You learn to play fair, follow the rules, and treat everyone with respect, regardless of their skills or background. This respect carries over into your everyday life, making you a bloody legend to be around.

So, there you have it, mate! Sports give you the chance to develop killer social skills and that’s one of the things we love about Urban Rec. It’s more than sport. You practice teamwork, making friends, handling wins and losses, communication, and respect. Get out there, play hard, and watch your social game level up to epic awesomeness!

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NAIDOC WEEK 2023

June 22, 2023 - 2 years ago

This Naidoc week Urban Rec asked artist, Urban Rec Member and proud proud Ngunnawal, Bundjalung and Kamilaroi woman Shaenice Miles to create an artwork that represents our community. Shaenice wanted to create something to represent the amazing community Urban Rec creates. We are so excited and proud to have something that represents us so well.

BUY A SHIRT

This Naidoc week we will be selling a limited edition (80 only) Narragunnawali shirts with all proceeds going to National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy, who use sport and mentoring to engage young people, build self esteem and enable a strong sense of autonomy through personal development. You can find out more about the amazing work NASCA is doing or donate directly here.

Get the squad together and get a new kit or just get yourself some epic swag while helping an amazing organisation. Pre-order your shirt here. There’s only 80 and its first in, best dressed. Shirts are $35 with all proceeds going to NASCA.

MORE ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Narragunnawali (English Translation Coming Together)
The Artwork I wanted to create was something to represent the amazing community Urban Rec creates and will create. Each component of the artwork – the middle bit is a meeting circle with each of the community members coming together to play sports. There are footprints representing the different journeys and diverse backgrounds we all come from. The different meeting circles at the bottom is all cultures coming together to represent Reconciliation. The dots is to represent all the sports and sporting levels each individual brings. The blue, orange and yellow bit represents everyone coming together during different seasons and times throughout the year.

MORE ABOUT THE ARTIST

My name is Shaenice Miles, and I am a proud Ngunnawal, Bundjalung and Kamilaroi woman. I have grown up in Canberra and have been amongst the Urban Rec community playing social basketball. The one thing I love about Urban Rec is the social community, and friends you get to connect with.

ADDITIONAL NAIDOC WEEK AKNOWLEGEMENTS

This Naidoc week Urban Rec is coming together with our community doing the following to celebrate the first nations people of this wonderful country we call home.

• We’ve partnered with artist proud Ngunnawal, Bundjalung and Kamilaroi woman Shaenice Miles to create Narragunnawali a design that represents our community.
• We’ve created a limited edition shirt using the design which we are selling with all proceeds going to the National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy.
• We’ve changed all of our sports locations to include the (land) that they are located on.
• We’re adding an acknowledgement to country into our League Managers first day on ground team welcomes with the help of indigenous leaders.

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