National Rugby League sides St. George Illawarra and the Wests Tigers are "preparing to take centre stage in Honolulu with a historic first NRL trial match to be announced for February," according to Dean Ritchie of the Sydney DAILY TELEGRAPH. Officials from both clubs "made a secret visit to Hawaii six weeks ago to inspect security, accommodation and the playing surface at the 50,000-seat Aloha Stadium." The clubs have informed the NRL, "which is poised to approve" the Feb. 12 fixture. St. George Illawarra CEO Peter Doust admitted that his club was "keen to play the first NRL game in the Pacific island." He said, "The Dragons would express an interest to be part of the match if it was to go forward." Officials are "hoping for a crowd between 15,000 to 20,000, made up of travelling fans keen to take advantage of a preseason fixture at a tropical location," as well as locals drawn in by the "curiosity factor." It is understood Hawaiian Tourism and the Hawaiian Rugby League are "working with promoters Grand Pacific Events on the match, which could become an annual event" (DAILY TELEGRAPH, 10/11).
