The strong presence of the NRL's biggest rival took him by surprise, but the diversity of sporting tastes in Wagga could prove to be the ace up its sleeve when attempting to attract big ticket sports fixtures.

It could be argued there may not be room for everyone to include Wagga on their agenda. But it could prove a huge advantage, with each sport desperate to ensure they claim their piece of the pie.

It's highly likely the fact the Canberra Raiders played a fully-fledged game in Wagga this year, and will again in 2020, helped steer the AFL back to the 'City of Good Sports' for the first time since 2016.

Last week an AFLW game and AFL trial double header was confirmed for Wagga next year, in what could be viewed as a return serve to the NRL.

Since I moved to Wagga six months ago I've marvelled at the near 50-50 divide of Aussie Rules and rugby league fans.

It must surely be one of the most competitive sporting landscapes in the country and that fact is beginning to bear fruit for local fans.

Last week big time soccer came to town for the first time when Sydney FC and Newcastle Jets played a W-League trial at Equex Centre.

Despite the atrocious weather, Sydney FC players braved the conditions to satisfy young autograph hunters after Sunday's W-League trial win over Newcastle at Equex Centre.

The fixture still attracted a solid crowd, but unfortunately we can only speculate on how many would have attended on a nicer day.

Capturing the imagination of youngsters when they're yet to fully commit to their sporting passion of choice is vital for any sport.

It is likely a Sydney FC A-League season-proper game in Wagga would not only attract a similar crowd to the big smoke, but it would also allow the club to plant its flag in the region and inspire a new generation of soccer players and fans.

If the NRL can bring a game here, there's absolutely no reason why the A-League can't follow suit.

Desperate for new eyeballs on TVs and bums on seats at games as the league struggles to maintain its place in the mainstream market, pressing hard into regional areas could be a factor which can help reverse the trend.

Wagga is a highly diverse sporting landscape. Since I moved here six months ago I've marvelled at the near 50-50 divide of Aussie Rules and rugby league fans.

It would be in the best interests of cricket to follow suit, particularly in the women's game, to build on the Women's Big Bash League's visit to town in January last year.

Sydney FC will host a W-League trial in Wagga every second year at minimum, while next year's AFLW game could potentially turn into a semi regular event if it's a raging success.

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