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Whether you have witnessed a team’s past successes firsthand or want to celebrate your loyalty regardless of your sporting roots, a retro jersey combines nostalgia with tradition.
For years, if not decades, owning – and wearing – a football jersey has long been a gesture of support and commitment to your favourite team.
Retro jerseys, however, hold a unique place in football nostalgia. Whether you have witnessed a team's past successes firsthand or want to celebrate your loyalty regardless of your sporting roots, a retro jersey combines nostalgia with tradition. They can easily become a cherished piece of memorabilia that you'll want to wear again and again – or end up hanging on your wall as your most prized possession.
The real gravitation though, is the story behind each of the iconic designs and colour schemes. Each rugby league retro jersey carries a story, paying homage to memorable moments such as a successful winning year, the opening of a new stadium or a significant era in the club's history. By sporting one, you honour those unforgettable times and stand proud as a dedicated supporter of your favourite football team.
Ahead, you'll find each of our coveted rugby league retro jerseys and the story behind each of their designs.
Broncos 2000 Retro Jersey
The 2000 season was a remarkable year for the Broncos, marking a high point in the club's storied history. The club finished the regular season in first place, successfully claiming their fourth consecutive minor premiership, a testament to the club's consistent performance and continual dominance throughout the season.
The Broncos advanced all the way to the Grand final where they faced the Sydney Roosters in a thrilling and tight match where the broncos emerged victorious. The 2000 Broncos Jersey featured the iconic maroon and gold colours, complemented buy the distinctive white stripes and unique design of the 3-v's down the stomach. This jersey not only represented the team's identity but also became a symbol of their success during a memorable season. The combination of talent, determination, and a strong fan base contributed to an unforgettable year for the Broncos.
Eels 2001 Retro Jersey
The 2001 season was nothing short of dominant for the Parramatta Eels, often hailed as one of the most formidable teams in rugby league history. The season was almost a perfect season for the club, with the team setting a regular season points scoring record in the premiership by scoring 839 points in 26 matches as well as a record for the most tries (159) and the most points (943) scored by a team in a regular season. With this incredible performance, the Eels went on to claim the minor premiership, entering their fifth consecutive finals series and dominating their way to their first grand final in fifteen years. Unfortunately, in a dramatic twist, the Eels suffered a heartbreaking defeat, losing to the Newcastle Knights.
Despite entering halftime trailing 24-0, the Eels rallied in the second half but ultimately fell short, losing the match 30-24. The 2001 jersey encapsulates the club's identity, featuring the renowned bright yellow and blue colours that have become synonymous with the eels. The design is accented with white detailing, showcasing a simplistic yes effective design that resonated with fans and players alike.
This season, with its mix of triumphs and heartbreak, remains a pivotal chapter in the history of the Parramatta Eels, reflecting both their exceptional talent and their unwavering determination.
Bulldogs 1994 Retro Jersey
The 1994 season was a significant year for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, as it marked their second Minor Premiership in the NSW Rugby League competition under the leadership of legendary coach Chris Anderson. It also marked the final year the Bulldogs would play at Belmore Oval before sharing Sydney Football Stadium and Parramatta Stadium in the 1995 season, during which the club also underwent a name change to become the Sydney Bulldogs.
This legendary season saw the Bulldogs win the Minor Premiership, losing only two matches in the regular season, and securing a spot in the 1994 Grand Final against the Canberra Raiders. The Bulldogs would go on to lose the Grand Final 36-12 to the Raiders in front of 42,000 spectators at the Sydney Football Stadium on September 25, 1994.
Dragons 1992 Retro Jersey
The 1992 St. George Dragons jersey is a tribute to one of rugby league's most storied clubs. In 1992, the St. George Dragons primarily wore their traditional white jersey featuring the iconic red "V" design. However, they also had an alternative jersey with red and white horizontal stripes, which was occasionally used during that season.
The striped design was a nod to the club's earlier uniforms, reflecting a rich history and tradition. While the red "V" jersey remains the most iconic, the striped version symbolises a unique period in the club's storied past.
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ShopPanthers 1998 Retro Jersey
This jersey saw a dramatic departure from the 1991 design. This new design was first introduced in the 1997 Super League Season inspired to look like a tree growing from the jersey with red and black branches. The 1997 Super League jersey didn't include a Panthers logo however, the logo was returned on the1998 jersey.
This was the year that Hall of Famer Royce Simmons served as the coach, and Panthers legend Steve Carter captained the side, marking a significant chapter in the club's history. Set an unwanted record for conceding the biggest choke in NRL history, against the Cowboys in round 12 where they led 26-0 before loosing 28-36.
Rabbitohs Panasonic Cup Jersey
The 1980's saw one of the biggest changes to the Rabbitohs jerseys with the removal of the traditional red and green being replaced with a white. The Rabbitohs Panasonic Cup Jersey is a nod back to the Souths era in the 1980's. This style sometimes referred to as a “mintie” was developed for the club to wear under stadium lights and show up well on television coverage. This jersey was never worn on field however was gifted to players and staff.
Knights 1988 Retro Jersey
The Newcastle Knights 1988 NRL Retro Jersey is a true collector's item. Featuring the iconic Henny Penny Sponsorship. Inspired by the original design worn by the team in their debut year, this jersey captures the essence of nostalgia and celebrates the club's foundation and enduring legacy.
It features the traditional Knights emblem prominently displayed on the chest, surrounded by the iconic navy blue and red colours that have defined the team for decades. The retro-style V-neck collar and classic striping down the sleeves add an authentic touch, transporting fans back to the early days of Rugby League.
Raiders 2001 Retro Jersey
The 2001 season was a period of extreme ups and downs for the Canberra Raiders, marking a period of serious rebuilding for the club. The team was plagued with injuries both before and during the season, with this adversity ultimately resulting in a disappointing finish, limping to nine wins and placing eleventh on the ladder. Despite the struggles in 2001, the club experienced one of their most memorable matches in Raiders history when the team staged a stunning come-from-behind victory over the Roosters, after losing 4 players during the match to injury and Jason Croker playing on with badly damaged knee and ankle ligaments, a testament to his commitment and the team's fighting spirit.
The 2001 jersey reflects the Raiders bold identity, predominantly showcasing the club's signature bold green colouring with this design enhanced with a striking V-neck detail in yellow, black and white. The combination of struggles and triumphs contributed to a year that, despite its difficulties, will be remembered for its moments of courage and determination.
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ShopSharks 1998 Retro Jersey
The 1998 season marks the 32nd year in the history of the Cronulla Sharks, as the club entered the inaugural season of the newly formed National Rugby League (NRL). This season was significant as it represented the reunification of the competition after the Australian Rugby League and Super League had previously competed separately.
However, the Sharks faced challenges of a fresh start in this newly consolidated league, with the Sharks placing eleventh after twelve wins, one draw and eleven losses, ultimately failing to make the finals. The 1998 Cronulla Sharks jersey holds a special place in the club's history, characterised by its striking design.
The jersey predominantly features the club's signature deep blue in a distinctive V pattern, symbolising the club's strength and unity. Accentuating the blue is grey and white stripes that add a modern touch to a classic look alongside the iconic Pepsi sponsorship emblazoned across the chest, becoming a recognisable element of the club's history. Despite the ups and downs of the season, the 1998 jersey remains a celebrated piece of the Sharks' heritage, embodying the spirit of a club navigating the complexities of a new era in rugby league.
Storm 1998 Retro Jersey
1998 is the year Melbourne Storm burst onto the Australian rugby league scene. Founded as part of the National Rugby League's expansion into Victoria, the Storm quickly made an impact and forged their way in a sport traditionally dominated by NSW and QLD teams.
Despite scepticism their inaugural season proved to be nothing short of remarkable, the Melbourne Storm fought their way into the NRL finals, just falling short of the premiership. Nevertheless, their incredible debut season laid the foundation for future success, establishing the Storm as a powerhouse in Australian rugby league and forever immortalising their 1998 jersey as an emblem of their historic beginnings.
Tigers 2004 Retro Jersey
This jersey was worn by the Wests Tigers in the 2004 World Sevens series. In this Sevens series the Parramatta Eels were in search of their third straight World Sevens title, however, the Tigers defeated Parramatta 18-7 in the final securing their first ever trophy.
The 2004 World Sevens tournament was the final edition of the event since its formation in 2000, as it was discontinued due to declining attendance and limited television coverage. This jersey commemorates a moment when the Tigers roared loudest and claimed their place in the rugby league record books.
Warriors 1993 Retro Jersey
In 1993, the Auckland Warriors were in the midst of their formative years, laying the groundwork for their entry into the Australian Rugby League (ARL) competition in 1995. During this period, the Warriors focused on developing their squad and establishing their presence in the rugby league community.
In March 1993 the official jersey of the Auckland warriors was released to the public for the first time in a ceremony attended by NSWRL GM John Quayle, former Kangaroos captain Wally Lewis as well as former New Zealand Kiwis Captain Fred Ah Koi along with various media outlets.
The Auckland Warriors Colts were the first team to wear this jersey playing against Northland U19 team in March 1993. The 1993 jersey just made it into the era of the cotton knit rugby league jerseys before moving to more modern polyester styles. The 1993 season was a pivotal year for the Auckland Warriors, marking the beginning of their journey toward becoming a formidable force in the Australian Rugby League.
Roosters 2005 Retro Jersey
The 2005 season marked the Sydney Roosters 98th year in the club's storied history. It was a season filled with ups and downs, culminating in eleven wins and thirteen losses, which placed the team 9th out of fifteen clubs in the competition. This finish was particularly significant, as it meant the Roosters missed out on finals qualification for the first time since 1995, ending a long streak of postseason appearances. Despite the challenges faced throughout the season, there were notable achievements that stood out, with Ricketson becoming the first player in club history to play 300 games and Craig Fitzgibbon broke the point-scoring record for the club, one that stood for over 30 years.
The 2005 Roosters Jersey is a stylish representation of the club's identity, featuring a predominantly white design that showcased the iconic navy blue and red through a distinctive V-neck and stripes running down the arms and sides, creating a modern yet classic look that resonated with fans.
While the season may not have ended as hoped, the jersey and the milestones achieved served as reminders of the Roosters' rich heritage and commitment to excellence in the face of adversity.
Sea Eagles 1996 Retro Jersey
The 1996 season will forever be a landmark year in the history of the Manly Sea Eagles, as it marked the clubs 50th season and culminated in a premiership victory. The Sea Eagles had a remarkably successful year, as they dominated with their defence, conceding only 34 tires in 25 matches, the best record of any team since the 6-tackle rule was introduced in 1971. Their dominance on the field earnt them their way to the grand final, where they faced the St George Dragons and secured their sixth premiership with a decisive 20-8 victory.
The 1996 jersey is an iconic representation of this successful season, featuring a predominantly white design with the club's signature maroon colour across the chest and one sleeve. This jersey not only symbolises the team's achievement but also serves as a lasting reminder for fans and players of their determination and grit. The spirit of 1996 continues to resonate within the club, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence.
Steelers 1997 Away Retro Jersey
The Illawarra Steelers' 1997 season was a turbulent season for the club, marked by the departure of several experienced players at the end of the previous season. This left lots of inexperienced juniors to come together and try to success against other more formidable clubs. Despite these challenges, the team managed to secure 10 wins, 3 draws and faced 10 losses, finishing in 6th place and just scraping their way into the finals. Unfortunately, the Steelers postseason run was short-lived, as they lost 25-14 to the Gold Coast Chargers in the first week of the finals.
The 1997 Away jersey reflects the club's identity, featuring a predominantly red design with horizontal red and white stripes across the stomach. The iconic BHP Steelers logo adorns the chest, complemented by a white collar. This jersey serves as a reminder of a season filled with both challenges and determination, showcasing the spirit of the Steelers as they navigated a year of transition.
Bears 1967 Retro Jersey
In 1967, the North Sydney Bears took to the field in the New South Wales Rugby Football League (NSWRFL), led by the legendary player-coach Billy Wilson. Known for their bold, red and black horizontal stripes, the Bears' iconic jersey became a symbol of the club's proud heritage and fierce tradition. This jersey isn't just a piece of memorabilia—it's a tribute to the legacy and passion that the North Sydney Bears have embodied since their inception.
Western Reds Sevens Jersey
In 1995, the Western Reds introduced a distinctive jersey for the Rugby League Sevens tournament. The Sevens jersey was a departure from the team's traditional home kit, showcasing a unique aesthetic for the fast-paced, abbreviated format of the Rugby League Sevens.
This Sevens jersey featured a bold design with red and black as the primary colours, complemented by gold accents. The front prominently displayed the "Cash Converters" sponsorship logo, reflecting the team's major sponsor at the time. The jersey also incorporated the Western Reds' emblem on the chest, symbolising the team's identity.
Check out our entire range of rugby league retro football jerseys, fangear, or head in-store to speak with one of our friendly rebel staff to help find the right one for you.
Please note: All retro football jerseys are available while stocks last. For any inquiries regarding stock availability, please contact our rebel customer service team.