There’s a new rugby league club in Athens aiming to join the Greek Rugby League Association (GRLA) for the 2021/22 season.

The Perama Tigers begin training this September, lead by experienced GRLA players Panayiotis Karefylis and Vasilis Michelis. The two aim to introduce new athletes to the sport and help build interest before pushing for the top Greek domestic competition.

“2020/21 will be a development season, so they can build the team with raw beginners, without the added pressure of committing to matches, travel etc,” GRLA president George Stillianos told Chasing Kangaroos.

“Once there are enough players (hopefully by Nov-Dec), they can start playing friendly matches. If all goes to plan they will join the Domestic season proper in the 2021/22 season.”

The slow and steady strategy has been used in Athens before, most recently by the Athens Raiders who are part of the upcoming GRLA season.

The club have adopted the “Tigers” mascot thanks to the jersey donated QLD Cup side Brisbane East Tigers. Perama is a real working-class area, one that could embrace rugby league and all that the sport stands for.

Keep up to date with the Perama Tigers Rugby League club by following them on their facebook page here.