Abstract
The intent of this essay is twofold. First, to reflect on the emergence, development and sociohistorical positioning of rugby league in Aotearoa New Zealand. This is broached by locating the game within the contested presence of particular sporting codes as they relate to constructions of national identity. In doing so it explores the historical development and resonance of the game within the contested sociocultural terrain of New Zealand sport space. Second, I seek to establish a provisional agenda to explore the historical, social and cultural significance of the game which to date has been at the outer margins of both popular and scholarly sport historiography in New Zealand.
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