Damon Koolstra, Captain of Netherlands Men Netherlands Lions captain and NRLB Board Member Damon Koolstra has shared the family connection behind his international rugby league journey — and his ambition to help build the game for the next generation. Born in Melbourne, Koolstra spent time living in the Netherlands with his Opa when he was four, before eventually settling in Mackay, Queensland. He began playing rugby league at eight, developing a love for the sport that would
Image caption: Ryan Keating in action for Yeppoon Seagulls ahead of representing the Netherlands in Serbia. Photo: supplied Yeppoon Seagulls winger Ryan Keating is preparing to swap his club colours for Netherlands orange as he joins the Lions for the 2026 Men’s Rugby League European Championships in Serbia. For the 21-year-old, the opportunity to represent the Netherlands is about more than rugby league. It is a chance to honour his family’s heritage and make those closest t
Hull KR's treble-winning captain, Elliott Minchella, with Craig Franklin, holding the Super League Grand Final Winner trophy. The Nederlandse Rugby League Bond (NRLB) is delighted to announce the appointment of OXEN Sports Brand Director and former Hull KR Chief Operating Officer Craig Franklin in an advisory role. Franklin brings an outstanding track record in professional sport, brand development and commercial growth to Rugby League in the Netherlands, having held senior p
