Queensland Rugby League will celebrate its third annual Licensed Clubs Round this weekend, as rivals on the field unite to acknowledge the immense contribution of licensed clubs and their endless support of grassroots rugby league.
Following the success of two Licensed Clubs Rounds in Queensland, the QRL is again excited to partner with Leagues Clubs Australia (LCA) across this weekend’s Hostplus Cup and BMD Premiership action.
The initiative shines the spotlight on the input of LCA and its member clubs, who are proud supporters of rugby league and the wider community.
LCA members contribute more than $27 million annually to the Queensland rugby league community.
More than $10 million is also invested into community activities.
QRL competitions manager David Maiden said this support was a major factor in getting boys and girls on the rugby league field with their local clubs.
“Support from licensed clubs ensures rugby league is more accessible for our participants," Maiden said.
“Whether it’s ground preparations, the maintenance of clubhouses and facilities, assisting with the costs of jerseys and insurance, licensed clubs are helping to make our great game even greater.”
Licensed Clubs Round officially gets underway this Saturday with the Central Queensland Capras at home to the Souths Logan Magpies in the Hosptlus Cup, while Western Clydesdales and Burleigh Bears kick off Round 3 of the BMD Premiership.
LCA chief executive officer Don Hammond said:
“Licensed clubs support of rugby league is crucial because it not only enhances the development of young players, male and female, but also fosters a sense of belonging and community engagement,” Hammond said.
“The $27 million investment underscores the significance of nurturing grassroots talent and promoting the values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship from an early age.
“Licensed clubs often serve as hubs for social interaction and community engagement.”
LCA will partner with Heartbeat of Sport this weekend to deliver free heart and blood tests for supporters attending the Dolphins’ match against the Ipswich Jets at Kayo Stadium on Sunday.
Licensed Clubs Round
· Hostplus Cup
Saturday, June 20
Central Queensland Capras v Souths Logan Magpies, Aurizon Stadium, Rockhampton, 5pm
Mackay Cutters v Brisbane Tigers, BB Print Stadium, 6pm
Sunday, June 21
Redcliffe Dolphins v Ipswich Jets, Kayo Stadium, 2.10pm
Sunshine Coast Falcons v Townsville Blackhawks, Sunshine Coast Stadium, 2.10pm
Norths Devils v Wynnum Manly Seagulls, Premiers' Park, 2.30pm
PNG Hunters v Northern Pride, Santos National Football Stadium, 3.30pm
· BMD Premiership
Saturday, June 20
Western Clydesdales v Burleigh Bears, Toowoomba Sports Ground, 2pm
Central Queensland Capras v Souths Logan Magpies, Browne Park, 3pm
Mackay Cutters v Brisbane Tigers, BB Print Stadium, 4pm
Sunday, June 21
Ipswich Jets v Tweed Seagulls , Richardson Park - Woogaroo Field, 12.05pm
Sunshine Coast Falcons v Northern Pride, Sunshine Coast Stadium, 12.15pm
Norths Devils v Wynnum Manly Seagulls, Premiers' Park, 12.50pm
