Joseph Chidiac Honoured with Championship Cup Named in His Legacy 

The LCA NRL Wheelchair National Championship will crown its first-ever champions with the presentation of the Joseph Chidiac Cup—a perpetual trophy honouring the founder of Wheelchair Rugby League in Australia.

Named after Joseph Chidiac, whose vision and dedication have shaped the sport for more than three decades, the Cup celebrates both the competitive spirit of the game and the legacy of one of its greatest advocates. 

“Founding Wheelchair Rugby League in Australia was never just about sport; it was about creating a place where everyone belongs, where resilience and inclusion are celebrated, and where people of all abilities can compete and connect through something greater than themselves,” said Joseph Chidiac. 

For more than three decades, Chidiac has dedicated himself to disability sports as an athlete, coach, and administrator. Living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy has never slowed his determination—instead, it has fuelled his passion for creating opportunities for others. His vision and tireless commitment laid the foundation for Wheelchair Rugby League in Australia, shaping it from grassroots beginnings into a nationally recognised sport. 

Building a Pathway for Inclusion 

Chidiac founded the New South Wales Wheelchair Rugby League Association, which later evolved into Wheelchair Rugby League Australia (WRLA). His leadership saw the sport take its first major steps in 2008 when he coached an inexperienced Australian side at the Festival of World Cups in England. That appearance lit the spark for structured domestic competition, and by 2010, Chidiac had established the NSW wheelchair competition. 

Through his advocacy and persistence, the game expanded across Australia, with competitions now operating in Queensland, the Northern Territory, and new growth emerging in Victoria and South Australia. He also guided national teams to the 2013 and 2017 Wheelchair Rugby League World Cups, placing Australia firmly on the international stage. 

“Joseph has been a great servant of Wheelchair Rugby League at all levels. The game has developed because of his leadership and contribution both on and off the field,” said John Wilson, Executive GM, Participation at the NRL and Director, WRLA. “The opportunities we realise today, and into the future including the National Championships, have been built off the back of his selfless commitment and vision. I’m proud to support this great honour being bestowed on Joseph.” 

Recognition for Relentless Service 

Chidiac’s contribution has been acknowledged at the highest levels. In 2020, he became the first-ever Life Member of Wheelchair Rugby League Australia, and later that same year, he was awarded the Kayo NRL National Volunteer of the Year, in recognition of the 50 hours a week he devoted voluntarily to the sport.  

Beyond administration and coaching, he has tirelessly fundraised, secured equipment and venues, and supported players to travel overseas to represent their country. 

“Joseph is a true inspiration to all Rugby League supporters – and for him to be recognised in this manner is a wonderful endorsement, for all the work he has contributed to Wheelchair Rugby League in Australia over many years,” said former WRLA Chair, Martin Meredith OAM.

Darren Gocher, WRLA Chair, concurred with his sentiment, stating,

“Joseph’s been a fantastic contributor to Wheelchair Rugby League in Australia, for a long time now. His contributions have been incredible and we wouldn’t be where we are today without him.”

A Legacy Cemented 

Now, his name will be etched into the sport’s history through the LCA NRL Wheelchair Championship Cup. The decision pays tribute to a man whose vision and grit transformed the landscape of Rugby League. 

“Joseph has shown what can be achieved when passion meets perseverance,” said Anna Fitzgerald, NRL Wheelchair CEO. “Naming the Championship Cup in his honour ensures that every player, official, and fan understands the legacy they are part of.” 

For Chidiac, the announcement reflects the community spirit that has always driven him.

“This sport has never been about me—it’s about creating opportunities for people of all abilities to share in the game we love. I’m humbled to be recognised in this way.” 

Celebrating the Future 

The inaugural LCA NRL Wheelchair Championship Cup – The Joseph Chidiac Cup – will not only celebrate the athletes who showcase speed, skill, and resilience on wheels, but also honour the man whose dedication made it all possible. 

Joseph Chidiac’s legacy is more than the establishment of a competition; it is the creation of a community where inclusion, courage, and the spirit of Rugby League thrive.