One New Zealand Warriors CEO Cameron George has hailed a breakthrough partnership formed with the City of Logan to set up an academy and a community programme in South East Queensland.
The joint venture was unveiled today by Logan City mayor Jon Raven who announced the academy would offer an elite training and talent identification programme as well as a community initiative to help young people connect with sport and career opportunities outside football.
“This is a huge development for us as a club, a great opportunity to spread our presence into South East Queensland which is a real hotbed for rugby league talent,” said George, who was in Logan for today’s announcement.
“Our elite academy for boys and girls in Logan will provide a direct pathway to or NRL and NRLW teams.
“It’s a two-pronged approach between Logan City and the One New Zealand Warriors to work with the community for better outcomes for locals though work programmes and to form a rugby league academy to create another pathway for young boys and girls to chase their dreams.
A great opportunity to spread our presence into South East Queensland which is a real hotbed for rugby league talent
Cameron George One New Zealand Warriors CEO
“We have a network of academies throughout New Zealand doing a terrific job and see a real opportunity with this partnership to connect with New Zealanders in Australia.
“We’re excitGeorge said leading community developer and home builder Ausbuild has partnered with the club in the venture to provide and work and community opportunities. ed about what lies ahead and we really appreciate Logan City’s support.”
George said leading community developer and home builder Ausbuild has partnered with the club in the venture to provide and work and community opportunities.
Mayor Raven said the rugby league world would have its eyes on Logan as the One New Zealand Warriors set up a home-away-from-home base at the Logan Metro Sports Park in Browns Plains.
“So many rugby league legends have come from Logan and we’re thrilled to welcome the Warriors to our city to nurture more NRL stars of the future,” he said.
“Logan is the leading rugby league nursery in the nation and has one of the largest populations of people of New Zealand and Pacific Island descent outside of Auckland.
“The Warriors are known for their strong community connections and supporting development opportunities for young people, which are values we love here in Logan – the youngest, most diverse and fastest growing city in Queensland.”
George said the Warriors would have staff in Logan to work closely with the community.
“As a club, we focus on the person first and foremost. It’s not just about footy – it’s about providing opportunities to all young people so they can reach their potential,” he said.
Logan City Council will provide the Warriors with access to facilities such as fields and office space.
The programme will work directly with local rugby league clubs, supporting local coaches and players with a direct connection to an NRL team, and building the game in Logan.
Ausbuild managing director Matt Bell said the partnership would provide career opportunities for young people.
“Sport can be a great way to make connections with community and find employment opportunities, including apprenticeships and jobs,” he said.
“Ausbuild has a history of working with clubs to build pathways for young people and we’re excited to join with the Warriors and Logan City Council.”
Logan City Council will host a community day when the One New Zealand Warriors have their captain’s run at Logan Metro Sports Park in Browns Plains on Friday, August 22, ahead of their round 25 NRL match against the Gold Titans in Robina the following day.
The Warriors will be signing autographs and entry is free. Fans can register to attend here.
