Every Sydney Roosters Grand Final Appearance: A Complete Checklist for the Die-Hard Chooks Fan

Look, if you’re a Sydney Roosters supporter, you already know the feeling. That electric buzz in the air when September rolls around. The way Bondi seems to hold its breath. The knowledge that your team—the mighty Chooks—has a history that puts most clubs to shame. But here’s the thing: knowing you’ve been in grand finals and actually remembering every single one are two different beasts.

Whether you’re a new fan trying to get your head around the club’s legacy, a grassroots player wanting to understand what makes the Roosters tick, or a parent explaining to your kid why this club is special, this checklist is for you. We’re going to walk through every NRL Grand Final appearance the Sydney Roosters have made—from the early days as Eastern Suburbs right through to the modern era under Trent Robinson.

By the end of this, you’ll be able to rattle off the years, the opponents, the key moments, and the results like a seasoned commentator. No more awkward silences when someone asks, “So, how many grand finals have the Roosters actually won?” You’ll have the answer—and the context to back it up.

Let’s get into it.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Before we dive into the step-by-step breakdown, here’s what you should have handy:

• A basic understanding of NRL history – You don’t need to be a walking encyclopedia, but knowing the difference between the NSWRFL and the NRL helps.
• Access to a device or notebook – You’ll want to jot down the years and key stats. Trust me, it’s a lot to remember.
• A willingness to feel some emotions – There are highs and lows. Be prepared.
• A Roosters jersey or scarf – Optional, but highly recommended for vibes.

Right, now that you’re ready, let’s walk through every single grand final appearance the Roosters have made.

Step 1: Start with the Foundations – The Early Eastern Suburbs Years (1911–1937)

The Sydney Roosters didn’t start as the Roosters. They were the Eastern Suburbs Roosters, a club born in 1908, and they wasted no time making their mark. But here’s where it gets interesting: the grand final system wasn’t always what it is today. In the early years, the premiership was decided by a finals series or even a challenge match. So when we talk about “grand finals,” we’re looking at the official deciders.

Key appearances in this era:

• 1911 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Glebe 11–8. This was the club’s first premiership. Think of it as the foundation stone.
• 1912 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Glebe again, this time 13–11. Back-to-back. The Chooks were already building a dynasty.
• 1913 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Newtown 16–11. Three in a row. That’s a hat-trick of titles.
• 1914 – Eastern Suburbs defeated South Sydney 17–3. Four consecutive premierships.
• 1915 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Balmain 14–6. Five in a row. This is the kind of dominance that defines a club’s DNA.
• 1918 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Balmain 21–8. Another title.
• 1919 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Balmain 11–10. A close one, but a win’s a win.
• 1921 – Eastern Suburbs defeated North Sydney 18–5.
• 1923 – Eastern Suburbs defeated South Sydney 15–12.
• 1924 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Balmain 15–12.
• 1925 – Eastern Suburbs defeated South Sydney 16–15.
• 1926 – Eastern Suburbs defeated South Sydney 18–5.
• 1927 – Eastern Suburbs defeated South Sydney 20–15.
• 1928 – Eastern Suburbs defeated St. George 14–12.
• 1929 – Eastern Suburbs defeated South Sydney 14–9.
• 1930 – Eastern Suburbs defeated St. George 14–6.
• 1931 – Eastern Suburbs defeated South Sydney 12–7.
• 1932 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Western Suburbs 13–9.
• 1933 – Eastern Suburbs defeated St. George 14–9.
• 1934 – Eastern Suburbs defeated South Sydney 15–12.
• 1935 – Eastern Suburbs defeated St. George 19–10.
• 1936 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Balmain 12–8.
• 1937 – Eastern Suburbs defeated South Sydney 19–10.

Wait, that’s a lot. Yes, it is. The Eastern Suburbs Roosters were absolutely dominant in the early decades. They won many premierships between 1911 and 1937. But here’s the catch: many of these weren’t grand finals in the modern sense. The finals system was different, and sometimes the “grand final” was just a challenge match. For the purpose of this checklist, we’re counting them as appearances because they determined the premiership.

Pro tip: When someone asks about the Roosters’ early success, you can mention their strong run of titles in that period.

Step 2: The Drought Years – 1940s to 1970s

After that golden era, the Roosters went through a dry spell. They didn’t make a grand final for decades. It wasn’t until 1960 that they returned to the big stage.

Key appearances:

• 1960 – Eastern Suburbs defeated St. George 15–14. This was a massive moment. St. George had won 11 straight premierships, and the Roosters finally broke the streak.
• 1965 – Eastern Suburbs defeated St. George 18–12. Another win over the Dragons.
• 1966 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Balmain 19–14.
• 1967 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Canterbury-Bankstown 12–10.
• 1968 – Eastern Suburbs defeated South Sydney 20–14.
• 1969 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Balmain 11–2.
• 1970 – Eastern Suburbs defeated South Sydney 23–12.
• 1971 – Eastern Suburbs defeated St. George 16–10.
• 1972 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Manly-Warringah 19–14.
• 1973 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Cronulla-Sutherland 10–7.
• 1974 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Canterbury-Bankstown 19–4.
• 1975 – Eastern Suburbs defeated St. George 38–0. Yes, 38–0. That’s a statement.
• 1976 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Manly-Warringah 13–10.
• 1977 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Parramatta 19–12.
• 1978 – Eastern Suburbs defeated Manly-Warringah 14–12.
• 1979 – Eastern Suburbs defeated St. George 17–13.
• 1980 – Eastern Suburbs lost to Canterbury-Bankstown 18–4. This was a gut-wrenching loss. The Bulldogs were underdogs, and they pulled off the upset.

The 1970s were a golden era. The Roosters won several premierships in that decade. But the 1980 loss was a turning point. It marked the end of that dominant run.

Common mistake: Don’t call them the “Sydney Roosters” for these years. They were officially “Eastern Suburbs” until 1995. If you say “Sydney Roosters” for a 1960 grand final, a true fan will correct you.

Step 3: The Modern Era – 1995 to 2004

The club rebranded as the Sydney Roosters in 1995, and with that came a new chapter. But the grand final appearances were fewer and farther between.

Key appearances:

• 1995 – Sydney Roosters lost to Canterbury-Bankstown 17–4. This was a disappointing return to the big stage. The Bulldogs were too strong.
• 2000 – Sydney Roosters lost to Brisbane Broncos 14–6. A close game, but the Broncos had the edge.
• 2002 – Sydney Roosters defeated New Zealand Warriors 30–8. Finally, a win! This was the club’s first premiership in 27 years. The drought was over.
• 2003 – Sydney Roosters lost to Penrith Panthers 18–6. A heartbreaking loss after such a high the year before.
• 2004 – Sydney Roosters defeated Canterbury-Bankstown 16–13. Sweet revenge. This was a classic grand final, decided by a field goal from Craig Wing.

Pro tip: The 2002 and 2004 wins are often talked about together. They represent the club’s return to relevance after the dark days of the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Step 4: The Trent Robinson Era – 2010 to Present

This is where things get really interesting. Trent Robinson took over as head coach in 2013, and he turned the Roosters into a modern dynasty.

Key appearances:

• 2013 – Sydney Roosters defeated Manly-Warringah 26–18. This was a statement win. Robinson’s first year as coach, and he delivered a premiership.
• 2014 – Sydney Roosters lost to South Sydney Rabbitohs 30–6. A tough loss, especially against their arch-rivals.
• 2015 – Sydney Roosters lost to Brisbane Broncos 17–16. This was a heartbreaker. A last-minute try by the Broncos snatched victory from the Roosters’ grasp.
• 2016 – Sydney Roosters lost to Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks 14–12. Another close one. The Sharks won their first-ever premiership.
• 2017 – Sydney Roosters lost to Melbourne Storm 34–6. A disappointing end to a strong season.
• 2018 – Sydney Roosters defeated Melbourne Storm 21–6. Redemption! This was a masterclass.
• 2019 – Sydney Roosters defeated Canberra Raiders 14–8. Back-to-back premierships. The first team to achieve that since the Broncos in 1992-93. This cemented the Roosters as a modern powerhouse.
• 2020 – Sydney Roosters lost to Melbourne Storm 26–20. A close game, but the Storm were too strong.
• 2021 – Sydney Roosters lost to Penrith Panthers 14–12. Another heartbreaker. The Panthers won their first premiership since 2003.
• 2022 – Sydney Roosters lost to Penrith Panthers 28–12. The Panthers were dominant, and the Roosters couldn’t keep up.
• 2023 – Sydney Roosters lost to Penrith Panthers 26–24. A nail-biter, but the Panthers won their third straight title.

Pro tip: If you want to impress someone, mention that the Roosters made several straight grand finals from 2018 to 2021. That’s consistency at the highest level.

Step 5: The Full List – Every Grand Final Appearance

Here’s the complete list, from 1911 to 2023. Use this as your cheat sheet.

Eastern Suburbs era (1911–1994):

• 1911 (Won vs Glebe)
• 1912 (Won vs Glebe)
• 1913 (Won vs Newtown)
• 1914 (Won vs South Sydney)
• 1915 (Won vs Balmain)
• 1918 (Won vs Balmain)
• 1919 (Won vs Balmain)
• 1921 (Won vs North Sydney)
• 1923 (Won vs South Sydney)
• 1924 (Won vs Balmain)
• 1925 (Won vs South Sydney)
• 1926 (Won vs South Sydney)
• 1927 (Won vs South Sydney)
• 1928 (Won vs St. George)
• 1929 (Won vs South Sydney)
• 1930 (Won vs St. George)
• 1931 (Won vs South Sydney)
• 1932 (Won vs Western Suburbs)
• 1933 (Won vs St. George)
• 1934 (Won vs South Sydney)
• 1935 (Won vs St. George)
• 1936 (Won vs Balmain)
• 1937 (Won vs South Sydney)
• 1960 (Won vs St. George)
• 1965 (Won vs St. George)
• 1966 (Won vs Balmain)
• 1967 (Won vs Canterbury-Bankstown)
• 1968 (Won vs South Sydney)
• 1969 (Won vs Balmain)
• 1970 (Won vs South Sydney)
• 1971 (Won vs St. George)
• 1972 (Won vs Manly-Warringah)
• 1973 (Won vs Cronulla-Sutherland)
• 1974 (Won vs Canterbury-Bankstown)
• 1975 (Won vs St. George)
• 1976 (Won vs Manly-Warringah)
• 1977 (Won vs Parramatta)
• 1978 (Won vs Manly-Warringah)
• 1979 (Won vs St. George)
• 1980 (Lost vs Canterbury-Bankstown)

Sydney Roosters era (1995–present):

• 1995 (Lost vs Canterbury-Bankstown)
• 2000 (Lost vs Brisbane Broncos)
• 2002 (Won vs New Zealand Warriors)
• 2003 (Lost vs Penrith Panthers)
• 2004 (Won vs Canterbury-Bankstown)
• 2013 (Won vs Manly-Warringah)
• 2014 (Lost vs South Sydney Rabbitohs)
• 2015 (Lost vs Brisbane Broncos)
• 2016 (Lost vs Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)
• 2017 (Lost vs Melbourne Storm)
• 2018 (Won vs Melbourne Storm)
• 2019 (Won vs Canberra Raiders)
• 2020 (Lost vs Melbourne Storm)
• 2021 (Lost vs Penrith Panthers)
• 2022 (Lost vs Penrith Panthers)
• 2023 (Lost vs Penrith Panthers)

Total appearances: Many (as of 2023) Total wins: Many Total losses: Several

Pro Tips for the True Roosters Fan

1. Know the venue history. Early grand finals were played at various grounds, including the Sydney Cricket Ground. From 1988 onwards, most were at the Sydney Football Stadium (now Allianz Stadium). The Roosters have a strong record at their home ground.
2. Understand the jersey evolution. The classic red, white, and blue jersey has changed over the years, but the core design has remained. If you see a fan wearing a vintage 1970s jersey, respect it.
3. Don’t forget the players. James Tedesco, Luke Keary, and Trent Robinson are modern legends. But also know the old-school heroes like Arthur Beetson, Johnny Raper, and Ken Irvine.
4. Membership matters. The Roosters have a loyal fan base in the NRL. If you’re a member, you’re part of the family. If you’re not, consider joining. The atmosphere at Allianz Stadium is something special.
5. Use the right terminology. It’s “NRL Grand Final,” not “Super Bowl.” It’s “premiership,” not “title.” And it’s “Roosters,” not “Rooster.” One bird is a mistake; a flock is a dynasty.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Calling them the “Eastern Suburbs” for post-1995 grand finals. It’s “Sydney Roosters” from 1995 onwards. Get it right.
• Forgetting the 1980 loss. It’s a painful memory, but it’s part of the history.
• Mixing up the 2018 and 2019 wins. 2018 was against the Storm; 2019 was against the Raiders. Two different games, two different stories.

Your Grand Final Checklist Summary

• Know the early Eastern Suburbs dominance (1911–1937)
• Remember the 1960s and 1970s golden era (several premierships in the 1970s)
• Acknowledge the 1980 loss and the drought that followed
• Celebrate the 2002 and 2004 wins (the modern revival)
• Learn the Trent Robinson era (2013, 2018, 2019 wins)
• Memorize the complete list of many appearances
• Understand the venue history (Allianz Stadium is home)
• Respect the jersey and the club’s identity
• Recite the key players (Tedesco, Keary, Robinson, Beetson)
• Use the correct terminology (NRL Grand Final, premiership, Roosters)

The Sydney Roosters aren’t just a rugby league club; they’re an institution. From the early days at the Sydney Cricket Ground to the modern era at Allianz Stadium, the Chooks have given their fans memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re a new fan or a seasoned supporter, this checklist will help you navigate the club’s rich history.

Now, go out there and impress your mates. When someone asks, “How many grand finals have the Roosters won?” you’ll have the answer—and the stories to go with it.

And if you want to dive deeper, check out our articles on the club’s history and culture, the most iconic Roosters players of all time, and the heritage of AFL grounds. The more you know, the more you’ll love this club.

Up the Chooks!