Life Membership: Phil Watts

The CRRL would like to congratulate Phil Watts who was awarded Life Membership at last night's CRRL Annual General Meeting. 

 Watts commitment to Rugby League in the Canberra Region extends back to the 1960s, where he first became involved as a player until the age of 18. 

When his sons were old enough to play in 1989, Phil returned to Rugby League as a coach at the Cowra Junior Rugby League club before moving to the Valley Dragons two years later. 

During his time at the Dragons, Watts was an active member of the committee, highlighted in 1994 where he stood for president and was successful, holding the role for seven years and becoming a life member.

In 1998, alongside John & Pat Walsh and the late Paul Robertson, he helped re-established the Valley Dragons Seniors who played in the senior comp until the establishment of the Tuggeranong Bushrangers in 2003. 

In 2006 - 2007, Phil was an active member on the CRRL committee a role which he proudly held for the last 18 years, concluding in his role at the end of the 2025 season. 

CRRL General Manager Mark Vergano is pleased to see Phil Watts awarded with Life Membership stating its due recognition for his commitment to Rugby League in the Region. 

"Phil’s extensive contribution to both junior and senior rugby league at administration level, as a coach and a player sees Life Membership as due recognition for over 40 years of involvement in the game," Vergano said. 

"Phil exemplifies dedication to his community and how a volunteer can contribute so positively to their chosen sport."