RUGBY League Jamaica (RLJ) kicked off its 2023 calendar of events by staging its annual New Year 9s tournament at The University of The West Indies last Saturday.

West Kingston Hyenas won the Men’s category that featured 10 teams. The Hyenas defeated the Jamaica Defence Force 8-4 in the final to claim their first-ever Rugby League Jamaica title.

In the third-place play-off the Duhaney Park Red Sharks defeated Washington Boulevard Bulls 12-4. Other senior teams included Liguanea Dragons, Caribbean Maritime University Spartans, Portmore Rugby League Club, Duhaney Park Firestorms, Spanish Town Vikings, and St Bess Sledgehammers.

In the U-19 Boys’ Open category, St Bess Sledgehammers defeated Liguanea Dragons 24-8 in the final. In the third-place game Cedar Grove Cyclones B defeated Cedar Grove A 16-12.

Rugby League Director Romeo Monteith says, “It’s a good start to the year. The tournament was a success in all areas. Most community teams came out with both senior and junior teams and have set the tempo for the year.

“After losing out to the Bulls in the RLJ Summer 9s last year, it’s fantastic to see the Hyenas claim their first rugby league title — and it speaks to the competitive nature of the short version of the sport amongst community teams.”