This October, the brightest minds in rugby league will come together for a first-of-its-kind conference aimed at providing game-changing strategies to improve performance, reduce injury risk and optimise training methods.
Hosted by the University of New England (UNE) at the NSW Rugby League Centre of Excellence, the Beyond The Game conference will feature world-renowned keynote speakers, cutting-edge research presentations, and a practical gym-based demonstration from UNE’s Dr Bradley Morris.
Dr Morris says it’s a unique opportunity for attendees to expand their expertise in exercise and sports science, network with industry leaders, and hear from some of the top voices in the game. 
“This is the first conference of its kind to be purely centred around rugby league, and will provide attendees with practical, applicable strategies that can be immediately implemented in their training programs,” he says.
“Here at UNE, we are passionate about continually finding ways to better the game, and provide athletes and coaches with the knowledge needed to continually improve and evolve.”
All content will be available on-demand after the event, ensuring participants can revisit key learnings and share insights with their teams.
With limited spots available and registration closing on 4th October, those interested in attending are encouraged to secure their place immediately here.
UNE students can access a special half-price offer using the code UNE1.
Beyond the Game: Developing the Rugby League Athlete, Footballer, & Individual keynote speakers
Tim Gabbett: One of the world’s most impactful sport scientists, with over 30 years’ experience, two PhDs, 300+ publications, and a global reputation for expertise in injury prevention, physical demands, and skill acquisition.
Brice Johnson: An ASCA-accredited strength and conditioning coach with over 20 years’ experience in elite sport, known for his evidence-based approach to athlete development, periodisation, and team success across rugby league, netball, and football.
Matt Parish: A former NRL player and respected rugby league coach who now leads high performance and elite pathways at NSWRL, having transformed Samoa’s national team and mentored athletes at the highest levels of the game.
Key details
- Date: Saturday, 11th October 2025
- Time: 8:45am – 3pm
- Venue: NSWRL Centre of Excellence,12 Dawn Fraser Ave, Sydney Olympic Park
- Registration: Register here before 4th October 2025.
- Cost: $120 (NOTE: UNE students can access a special half-price offer using the code UNE1)
- Morning tea and lunch included
- 6 continuing professional development (CPD) points are available from Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) for attending this event
Event schedule
8:45 am – Onboarding
9-10 am – Keynote: Dr Tim Gabbett
10-10:30 am– Morning Tea
10:30-11:00 am– Speaker: Brice Johnson
11:10-12:30 am– Research Presentations
12:30-1:15 am– Lunch
1:15-1:45 am– Speaker: Matt Parish
2-3 am– Practical Gym: Dr Bradley Morris
