The rugby league community has always prided itself on looking after its own, and next month the game will deliver one of its most powerful displays of unity yet when it comes together to celebrate Jai Arrow’s birthday while raising vital funds for motor neurone disease research.
The NRL has announced plans to host what ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys has described as the “world’s biggest birthday party” for the former Queensland Origin forward, whose 31st birthday falls on July 12. The celebration will take place during South Sydney’s home clash against the Newcastle Knights at Accor Stadium, with fans encouraged to donate to MND research instead of bringing presents.
The initiative follows Arrow’s heartbreaking announcement earlier this year that he had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease, forcing the popular Rabbitohs forward into an immediate retirement from the NRL.
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Rather than allowing the news to define him, Arrow has inspired the rugby league community to rally behind his family, with clubs, players and fans all finding ways to support the fight against the disease.
Peter V’landys said the game was determined to ensure Arrow and his family knew they were not facing the battle alone.
“We will throw the biggest birthday party in the world,” V’landys said.
“Don’t bring presents. Bring a donation.”
The July 12 fundraiser is expected to be just one part of a broader campaign, with momentum continuing to build behind the proposed ‘Jai July’ initiative. The concept, backed by players and fans, would replace the former Try Julycampaign and encourage fundraising for MND research throughout the month of July.
South Sydney CEO Blake Solly said the Rabbitohs are committed to supporting one of the club’s most respected players both on and off the field.
“We’re really looking forward to celebrating Jai’s career and his contribution to the club,” Solly said.
“We know that Jai is in for the fight and everyone at our club and across the game is committed to supporting him, Berina and Ayla as much as we can.”
Arrow has also received support beyond rugby league.
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Following a wellness retreat in Spain to explore therapies that may assist his condition, the former Maroons representative has been invited to attend the AFL’s Big Freeze event and toss the coin before the traditional King’s Birthday clash, highlighting the respect he commands across the Australian sporting landscape.
The Rabbitohs, North Queensland Cowboys and Manly Sea Eagles have already announced fundraising initiatives, while more clubs are expected to reveal their own tributes in the lead-up to Arrow’s birthday. The Cowboys have donated $50,000 through Souths Cares, and Manly players will wear specially designed warm-up shirts that will later be auctioned for charity.
Rugby league is often divided by fierce rivalries and tribal loyalties, but this is one occasion where club colours won’t matter.
On July 12, the focus won’t be on the scoreboard.
It will be on standing beside one of the game’s most admired figures and showing Jai Arrow that the rugby league family is behind him every step of the way.
