The Illawarra Coal League will kick off its 2016 season with an All Stars clash between a combined Illawarra Division All Stars up against the Illawarra Cutters.

Wade Forrester will coach the All Stars team with the match to be held on the 12th of February at Corrimal.

The curtain raiser will see an Illawarra Invitational Women’s side face an Indigenous Women’s squad.

Thirty players will be selected in the Illawarra All Stars side with every Illawarra Coal League club represented.

“The opportunity came up to consider an “All Stars” type of event, and after consultation and input from clubs, we are pleased that we have arrived at the point where this is now confirmed for 2016,” Chairman Ian Neill said.

“Our clubs should be commended for showing support for this new event and being prepared to support new initiatives of this nature. Our hope is the 2016 event will be a success and the event will become a regular part of our annual calendar.”