Origin fever hits regional Queensland

Rugby league legends Brent Tate and Matt Cooper will embark on a week-long tour of regional Queensland next week, bringing ‘Origin fever’ to the fans ahead of Game II of the Holden State of Origin.

The pair will host free footy clinics at junior rugby league clubs in Toowoomba, Maroochydore, Gympie, Bundaberg, Rockhampton and Mackay and be encouraging local sporting clubs to apply for a share of $250,000 in grants thanks to the Holden Home Ground Advantage program.

Having just completed a similar tour of junior rugby league clubs in regional NSW, Tate knows first-hand how important these clubs are to their communities.

“The lessons you learn as a junior at your local sporting club can really shape how you develop as a player and a person,” said the 26-time Australian representative and Maroons great.

“Getting kids involved in grassroots sport helps them learn skills – but more importantly teamwork, discipline and respect.”

Holden’s Executive Director Marketing Geraldine Davys said the tour aimed to share the excitement of Holden’s State of Origin Series with the fans.

“Not everyone can make it to the game so we wanted to bring ‘Origin-fever’ to fans who would otherwise not have the opportunity to get a taste of the action,” Ms Davys said.

“Some of the NRLs biggest and best players began their careers in regional Queensland towns, so it’s great to be able to celebrate our great sport at a grassroots level,” she added.

As a thank you to each club who hosts a clinic, Holden will present the club with a Holden Home Ground Advantage grant of $1000 to put towards new equipment, uniforms or other upgrades.

“Local sporting clubs unite communities and we are committed to supporting them through our Home Ground Advantage program which, twice a year, offers clubs the opportunity to apply for a share of $250,000 worth of grants,” Ms Davys said.

The Home Ground Advantage program was initiated by Holden in 2014 as a 10-year commitment to supporting grassroots sporting clubs. Applications are now open for the Winter Round of grants and sporting clubs of all codes are encouraged to apply. 

Visit www.holden.com.au/homegroundadvantage for more information.

TOUR DATES

18th Man Memberships: The best way to secure your seats for Origin Game II