The Queensland Rugby League will once again dedicate its final competition round of the season to an initiative that carries a message far bigger than the game itself.
The ‘Turn to Me’ Round, introduced in 2013 by former NRL players Isaak Ah Mau, Petero Civoniceva and Ipswich Jets chairman Steve Johnson, was born from tragedy, following the loss of several young players within the rugby league community.
Its purpose is simple but powerful: to remind all players, staff and supporters that they’re never alone, and that turning to a mate, a colleague or a coach can make all the difference.
This year marks a significant step, with the round highlighted across both the Hostplus Cup and BMD Premiership competitions.
In Round 23, players, coaches, match officials and fans will come together in solidarity. Every Hostplus Cup and BMD Premiership side will wear blue socks, a symbol representing the clearing of skies after turbulent times.
Players will also distribute mini footballs into the crowd ahead of kick-off, sharing the message of connection and support.
On game day, Pete Murray’s Better Days will play as players walk onto the field side by side, before they line up across halfway.
A “Turn to Me” message, pre-recorded or read aloud, will follow, before players shake hands and reach out to their supporters in the stands.
Post-game, both teams will again link together in a circle, reinforcing the message of unity and wellbeing across rugby league.
Support Beyond the Sidelines
The initiative is supported by QRL and NRL mental health partners including White Cloud Foundation, Telus Health, headspace, Lifeline, the Black Dog Institute, Kids Helpline and 13YARN.
Players, coaches and families are reminded that professional help is always within reach. White Cloud Foundation provides tele-mental health services to rugby league communities across Queensland, while Telus Health offers accessible support through the TELUS Health One app.
This app allows staff, players and families to connect directly with wellbeing resources, counsellors and support networks from anywhere, at any time.
While the “Turn to Me” Round coincides with the close of the season, its message stretches well beyond the final whistle. The campaign reinforces the importance of mateship over the long off-season, reminding everyone involved in rugby league to check in, listen and offer support.
“Don’t forget, turn to a colleague, turn to a mate, or turn to me.”
