Mackay juniors didn't know they were making history

India Macphee and Jasmine Peters didn't even know there was a Female Queensland Academy of Sport squad.

Mackay Magpies' India Macphee and Norths Devil's Jasmine Peters have been selected in the first Female Queensland Academy of Sport Squad. Picture: Madolyn Peters

RUGBY LEAGUE: India Macphee and Jasmine Peters didn't even know there was a Female Queensland Academy of Sport squad.

That was until they were selected in its inaugural Under-15 team.

"This is such a wonderful initiative from the Queensland Rugby League and another positive step in creating equality across the board in our great game,” Australian Jillaroo Renae Kunst said.

"It's such a great time for young girls to be involved in any sport at the moment, with the opportunities at present.”

Kunst, Mackay-based game development officer for Northern Queensland, has inspired the young players.

"We're very thankful for someone who has helped involve girls in a sport that people would only picture boys playing,” India said.

"She's very determined to help girls grow their knowledge in rugby league. She wants girls to do what she's doing.”

Jasmine thanked Kunst and her coaches for her selection in the state squad.

"Steve Nielsen coached us this year and gave us the opportunity to play,” she said.

"He taught us plays and different techniques to improve yourself.”

Both girls were scouted when they went away with the North Queensland Marlins team.

"I never thought I would actually make the Marlins side, so it was pretty cool,” Jasmine laughed.

India was just as surprised by her selection.

"I was the last person to be picked for Marlins, so I wasn't expecting to be picked for Queensland,” she said.

"I wanted to (be selected) but I didn't think it would happen. I think it will be a good experience to learn new techniques and get to know the other girls who are playing.”

The girls are best friends off the field but play for different teams.

"It's funny when we play because we always go hard on each other,” Jasmine laughed

They will travel to the Gold Coast in January with the training squad for a four-day camp.

Originally published as Mackay juniors didn't know they were making history