NRL throws ‘biggest party’ to kick off Jai July celebrations

South Sydney‘s clash on July 12 against the Newcastle Knights will coincide with the NRL throwing Jai Arrow the ‘world’s biggest birthday party’.

Following Arrow’s devastating diagnosis of motor neurone disease, the NRL promised a month-long celebration and fundraising campaign dedicated to supporting Arrow during his birthday month, July.

Dubbed ‘Jai July’, the league chose the July 12 clash at Accor Stadium to celebrate the ex-player, which directly coincides with Arrow’s 31st birthday.

“This will be a case of the game uniting behind our own,” Peter V’landys said.

“We are a family.

“Jai and his family need our help and they will get it. One of the best things about Rugby League is its ability to unite for an important cause and they do not get more important than this.”

The celebrations at Accor Stadium will see South Sydney place Arrow and his family front and centre, which will also include the unveiling of five new Rabbitohs mascots.

“On July 12, we will throw the biggest birthday party in the world for Jai. It will be a huge occasion with the whole game involved. This is not just for Rabbitohs and Knights fans – it’s for everyone in the game to get behind,” V’landy’s continued.

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“Don’t bring presents. Bring a donation. And help Jai get through this with everyone in the Rugby League community behind him.”

Arrow will also have an active part in the Origin decider at Suncorp Stadium on July 8, delivering the shield onto the field ahead of kick-off.

The tribute follows Arrow’s presence in the Queensland Maroons camp during the buildup to game one.

Multiple corporate brands have promised donation efforts directly to Arrow’s page, including committing large donations for every single try across the NRL, NRLW and Origin during the month of July.