Unlocking the Future of Rugby League through Nine Audio
In the evolving world of sports media, one thing has become clear: audio is an integral part of how fans experience rugby league. Whether it’s through live-match commentary, engaging discussions or in-depth player interviews, audio has a unique ability to connect people to the game like never before.
Women’s rugby league trailblazer and Nine Audio commentator, Ruan Sims, and distinguished NRL figure and commentator on 2GB’s Continuous Call Team, Paul Gallen, give us an in-depth look at how audio is transforming the fan experience, shaping key conversations, and driving deeper engagement with rugby league.
The Footy Evolution
Women’s rugby league is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with the overall excitement and growth of the game captivating Australia. Speaking to the evolution of the game, Ruan Sims says:
“The expansion of women’s rugby league is not just about increasing the number of teams. It’s about showcasing the athleticism, resilience and dedication these athletes bring to the field. This growth is exciting, not just for the sport but for the broader movement of women’s sports globally, with significant implications for the coming years.”
Emphasising how the sport’s growth goes beyond expansion, Paul Gallen says:
"Each season introduces new elements, through emerging talent, enhanced gameplay or innovative fan-engagement strategies. The appeal of rugby league lies in its dynamic nature and ability to consistently captivate audiences. It’s about deepening the connection between the game and its passionate fan base, creating enduring memories and moments."
Audio's Game Play
Rugby league is a sport built on loyalty, passion and a shared sense of community. But as the way we consume media changes, so too does the way we engage with the game. Fans want more than just visuals — they crave insights, real-time discussions, and analysis that takes them inside the mind of the players and coaches. That is where platforms like Nine Audio step in, delivering an immersive experience that redefines how fans connect with the game.
Sims says:
"The power of audio in today’s media landscape is undeniable. It’s a medium that transcends the boundaries of traditional broadcast, allowing for deeper storytelling and more intimate connections with audiences. Nine Audio has the ability to bring these pivotal sporting moments into the homes, cars and lives of Australians, helping fans to not only follow the game but become part of its ongoing narrative."
Gallen adds:
"As part of the Continuous Call Team on 2GB, I’m fortunate to engage with fans in a way that goes beyond traditional commentary. Nine Audio provides an intimate connection with listeners, allowing for deeper discussions about the sport and its pivotal moments. One of the standout features of 2GB is the level of trust the audience has in its talent. People tune in for extended periods because they know they’re going to get not only expert insights but also real, honest conversations about the game. The call-ins from listeners show their commitment. They’re part of the conversation, which adds a dynamic layer to the way we cover rugby league."
Immersive Listening, Deeper Connections
Audio is an unmatched medium for capturing the energy of rugby league. The core strength lies in its ability to transform the on-field intensity into captivating storytelling.
Sims explains:
"Rugby league is a game defined by its intensity, speed, and physicality, and these qualities translate brilliantly into audio. Through dynamic commentary, in-depth interviews and vivid storytelling, Nine’s audio channels are able to transport listeners directly to the field, recreating the high-stakes atmosphere in a way that’s both immersive and engaging."
As a former player and now key commentator, Gallen adds how his experience on the field shapes the way he brings rugby league to life through audio:
"When you’ve been in the thick of it, felt the pressure of the big moments, you know how to describe what’s happening in a way that resonates with the fans."
"My job is to take listeners beyond the play-by-play and help them understand the tactics, the mindset of the players, and the pulse of the game. That’s where audio becomes powerful: it allows me to share insights and bring the audience closer to the action, helping them feel not just what’s happening, but why it’s happening. The connection with fans through platforms like 2GB allows me to make the game relatable and engaging in a way only a former player can."
On the Airwaves
Audio will continue to blur the lines between the game and its audience, creating a space where listeners don’t just consume the sport, they actively participate in it.
Gallen shares:
"The way technology is advancing, we’re going to see even more interactive and immersive experiences for listeners. Whether it's deeper fan engagement through call-ins, live analysis, or even integrating fan voices during broadcasts, audio has the potential to bring people even closer to the game. It’s about delivering that unfiltered, raw access to the sport they love in real time."
Sims adds:
"There are endless opportunities to elevate the game’s presence and reach even broader audiences. Nine Audio is perfectly positioned to be at the forefront of this growth, providing a platform that amplifies the stories, the athletes, and the emotional highs that make rugby league so special."
Shaping the Future of Sport: Where Audio Meets Impact
As we move forward, the synergy between rugby league and Nine Audio will only grow stronger. For fans, players and brands alike, this is just the beginning of a powerful partnership that will continue to drive excitement, passion and loyalty for years to come.
Looking to put your brand at the heart of rugby league on Nine Audio? We'd love to hear from you.
