The Central Queensland Capras have announced they will align with the Gold Coast Titans as an official feeder club for the NRL team.
Off the back of their strongest season yet, the agreement between the clubs is a huge boost for rugby league in Central Queensland, which has produced NRL superstars such as Corey Oates, Cameron Munster and Ben Hunt.
The agreement will provide a number of benefits for the Titans and Capras alike.
Capras CEO Dominique McGregor was pleased with the alignment and the opportunities it would provide the club.
“The ultimate aim is to provide sound and secure pathways into the NRL for juniors in the Central Queensland region by allowing them to remain in their respective areas for as long as possible; as well as ensuring that our players are playing in a competitive environment while they are waiting for their step up into First Grade,” McGregor said.
Gold Coast Titans Chief Operating Officer Tony Mestrov was equally positive.
“The future of our long-term competitiveness in the game is what is at stake here,” Mestrov said.
“If we can assist in the process of this region’s development and recruitment programs and increase participation in the game overall by supporting them in key areas, then we are all going to reap the rewards of more quantity and quality in the talent pool.
“We have already identified the key areas within the club in that regard and believe we have a solid plan to move forward with.”
Capras coach Kim Williams, Titans COO Tony Mestrov, Capras CEO Dominique McGregor and Titans Football Operations Manager Anthony Laffranchi make the affiliation annoucement.
Some of the benefits of the alignment for the Capras will include:
- Contributions towards the costs of club scouting, recruitment and development staff
- Contributions towards training camps, coaching and ancillary staff expertise
- In-kind support for fundraising ventures
- Assistance with planning and co-ordination of elite player’s camps
- Increased sponsorship opportunities
“This is a very significant move for the Capras and us,” Mestrov said.
“There is no doubt that the structure put in place will achieve a number of goals for us all and we are excited about the prospect and potential of these arrangements.”
McGregor said after not having an alliance with an NRL club in a number of years, there was a lot of excitement in the Capras camp regarding the deal.
“I think the biggest benefit will be the retention of our top class juniors for longer before they get a chance to go to NRL level,” McGregor said.
“There is already clear evidence of how beneficial a relationship is with NRL clubs when you look at Intrust Super Cup clubs like Burleigh Bears, Redcliffe Dolphins and the Townsville Blackhawks and how they have performed.
“Hopefully this is what the Capras need to take our players and club to the next level.”
