Mackay Mavericks’ gridiron team partner with Wests Tigers
After losing in the fourth quarter to rival team Townsville Cyclones, the Mackay Mavericks have a new trick up their sleeves to make sure they can ‘settle the score’.
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After six years without anywhere to call home base, Mackay’s gridiron team is finally putting down roots.
Mackay Mavericks have teamed with regional powerhouse, the Wests Tigers, to share the grounds at Walkerston’s Western Suburbs Leagues Club.
It comes on the tailend of the Mavericks losing the Reef Bowl in February.
Coach Brad Somerville said he is excited about the move and recognises the importance of creating a thriving atmosphere in order to run it back next year.
The players are looking for redemption after coming up against the might of the Townsville Cyclones, despite the Mavericks leading until the third quarter.
“Injuries and fatigue took their toll on us unfortunately,” Somerville said, adding having a regular facility was a crucial part of their plan towards success.
“We are Mackay’s only gridiron team and we really wanted to take the next step forward in building this football program,” Somerville said.
“A key to that was securing a location with top tier facilities and something that will take us long into the future.”
The Mavericks have full use of the Wests’ facilities including a gym which has allowed them to bring in a strength and conditioning coach.
“It’s a really big step forward for us and in particular our sponsors,” Somerville said.
“The Wests also have a sponsors deck up there that we offer out to our sponsors so they can sit up there, drink for free and watch from above.”
The Mavericks have bolstered their coaching staff with the addition of offensive co-ordinator Saige Webber, defensive co-ordinator Chase Ayres, strength and conditioning coach John Williams, and line coach Ben Clement.
“We never had the vision to make the Reef Bowl in the first year,” Somerville said.
“ We just wanted to go long into the season and build the program.
“The fact we managed to make it is huge. Now we have a score to settle.”
The Mavericks are inviting the community to try the sport and join them for pre-season, which kicks off on June 26.
“This season is the best time to come aboard the club both as a player and as a sponsor,” Somerville said.
“We’re coming back this year for redemption and there is no better time to sign up for the mavericks.”
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