QRL release framework to support and safeguard performance

Queensland Rugby League is raising its commitment to provide the best possible physical performance strategies to guide aspirational male and female players through an important period in their rugby league journey.

Central to this responsibility is the release of the QRL’s Physical Performance Framework, a key resource complementing coach and player development frameworks that are already helping to shape the game’s future across the state. 

The Physical Performance Framework provides evidence-based training direction based on competency level for players as they begin to commence meaningful physical preparation for rugby league from the age of 13 across both male and female programs.

QRL physical performance manager John Mitchell, who has more than three decades of experience in rugby league, rugby union and high performance sport, is driving the project.

“This has been a collaboration of work across the game over the past nine months, through work with the S and C advisory committee, and stakeholders across the QRL, with the input of NRL clubs, state Cup clubs and school programs,” Mitchell said.

“The main goal is to optimise the opportunities for players to perform where they are not going to be injured through an increased workload.

“How we manage each individual player’s workload is important, as each school or club all have an interest in that one player, so it’s about creating conversations about what is best for each individual player.”

The implementation of this framework was a key topic at last weekend’s Queensland Coaches Network Forum on the Sunshine Coast, where Mitchell presented to more than 200 coaches from across the state.

This event followed last month’s strength and conditioning workshop, which also tackled some of the big issues, trends and recommendations for participants aged from 13 to 18 years.

As identified in this framework, players in this age bracket will all mature at a different pace and require support in line with their stage of physical, psychological and socio emotional development.

“The framework provides the tools and recommendations that will gives coaches, teachers, parents, players and medical staff an opportunity to discuss player training programs and importantly work together,” Mitchell said.