Game bigger, brighter, better: Smith

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THE NRL is finally back…and rugby league has never been bigger, brighter or better.

That was forceful yet passionate message NRL chief executive Dave Smith sent out to 600 fans, officials, sponsors and players at Wednesday's glamorous season launch at The Sydney Exhibition Centre on Glebe Island.

Smith said proudly: "The game has never been more healthy. It has never been so strong.

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"The 2014 season is going to be bigger and better than ever.''

And few could argue. What a season it will be.

The game's stars are back and ready to rip-in after a five-month off-season.

Among the guests last night were Paul Gallen, Kurt Gidley, Terry Campese, Robbie Farah, Ben Creagh, Braith Anasta and Sydney Roosters premiership-winning halfback Mitch Pearce.

Anthony Minichiello at the 2014 season launch held at The Sydney Exhibition Centre at Glebe Island. Source: News Limited

The vibe last night was amazing.

Millions of fans are already counting down to Thursday night's huge season-opener between 104-year rivals South Sydney and the Sydney Roosters.

Roosters skipper and fullback Anthony Minichiello officially launched the season.

"Like everyone here tonight, I can't wait for the season to start,'' Minichiello said.

"Even though a ball hasn't been kicked, we already have plenty to celebrate. The footy gets more exciting every season.''

Adam Reynolds and Jade Albany (from Big Brother) at the 2014 season launch. Source: News Limited

Smith spoke of optimism at all levels.

He talked about a pre-season "which saw the fierce but friendly rivalry between traditional foes – in both the Charity Shield and the World Club Challenge where the Roosters again established that the world's best club side comes from Australia.

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"On top of this, the NRL has delivered its strongest financial performance on record and set out a clear strategy for the future.

"So it's been an amazing few weeks, the best pre-season in many years. One to whet the appetite of all of our members and fans. And members and fans is where much of our focus will be in 2014.

"That's where our advertising is aimed – at encouraging more people to become members. These are the fans who go the extra step to support their club.

Tim Mannah , Paulini ( Parramatta fan ) and Jarryd Hayne at the 2014 season launch. Source: News Limited

"Their stories are amazing. They sleep out overnight to buy tickets; they travel all over Australia to see their teams play.

"They never miss a game. Tonight is all about bringing people together.''

The night attracted some business heavyweights with group managing director of Telstra Media, Rick Ellis, attending, as did Gold Coast CEO and former NSW Sports Minister Graham Annesley along with current State Ministers Gabrielle Upton and Stuart Ayers.

Kieran Foran and Geoff Toovey at the 2014 season launch. Source: News Limited

Souths chief executive Shane Richardson mingled among guests, as did Dragons counterpart Peter Doust and NRL chairman John Grant.

Big-wigs aside, Smith then made an announcement to please the battling fans.

"I am pleased to announce another major initiative - that anyone with an NRL ticket will be able to travel free to all 27 games at ANZ Stadium this season,'' he said.

"In other words, when you buy a ticket in advance for any game at ANZ you get the transport thrown in. And we have negotiated direct trains from Central to Olympic Park for every game at ANZ.''

Anthony Minichiello and Terry Biviano at the 2014 Season Launch. Picture Gregg Porteous Source: News Limited

Smith extended his speech to cover State of Origin.

"On the representative scene we have the 100th State of Origin match in Brisbane on May 28,'' he said.

"Just imagine what the atmosphere will be like.''

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