Stoking the flames of one of Australia's hottest, and longest-running debates, reality TV show Rivals will pit Aussie rules, rugby league and rugby union athletes against one another in a series of science-backed performance challenges.
These tests have been designed in consultation and overseen by the Australian Institute of Sport, measuring the athletic fundamentals across the three sporting codes – speed, agility, power, endurance.
Two male and two female athletes will represent each code in the series of challenges, and the calibre and resumes of the chosen athletes are particularly compelling.
Representing the AFL will be veteran Scott Pendlebury, dual Norm Smith medallist Will Ashcroft, 2024 AFLW Rising Star and Mark of the Year winner Matilda Scholz, and eight-time club best-and-fairest winner, Monique Conti.
The program will be hosted by three-time premiership Tiger Jack Riewoldt, who is understandably excited by the new concept.
"From my experience, this has been a constant debate, so it's exciting to see a competition that brings a diverse range of talent go head-to-head on an issue that's sparked national discussion for years. I might be biased, but looking at the talent involved, this is definitely one to watch," he said.
The eight-part series will premiere on Kayo and Foxtel on Sunday, March 1.
Team Rugby League:
Reece Walsh (Brisbane Broncos, Australian Kangaroos, QLD Maroons)
Josh Addo-Carr (Parramatta Eels, Australian Kangaroos, NSW Blues)
Ali Brigginshaw (Brisbane Broncos, Australian Jillaroos, QLD Maroons)
Jaime Chapman (Gold Coast Titans, Australian Jillaroos, NSW Blues)
Team Aussie Rules:
Scott Pendlebury (Collingwood Magpies)
Will Ashcroft (Brisbane Lions)
Monique Conti (Richmond Tigers)
Matilda Scholz (Port Adelaide Power)
Team Rugby Union:
Joseph Suaalii (NSW Waratahs, Wallabies)
Harry Wilson (Queensland Reds, Wallabies)
Ashley Marsters (Western Force, Wallaroos)
Desiree Miller (NSW Waratahs, Wallaroos)
