League of his own: Corey Parker kicks off CP9s festival in home city of Logan

League legend Corey Parker is bringing a fresh concept to junior rugby league, combining fast games, inclusivity, and community fun in a vibrant carnival festival to kick off in Logan.

League legend Corey Parker is set to kick off a new independent junior rugby league competition with the inaugural event to be held in his home city of Logan.

Rugby league legend Corey Parker is redefining grassroots sports with the launch of his independent juniors competition, CP Nines, which kicks off in Logan on February 22–23.

The carnival-style event is already generating buzz, with 50 teams registered and hopes to expand to 56 by game day.

The eponymous competition which takes Parker’s initials, offers a unique, inclusive platform for players aged eight, 10, 12, 14 to 16, alongside an All Abilities program catering to participants with diverse needs.

Unlike traditional league competitions run under the Queensland Rugby League banner, CP 9s operates independently, allowing players to join teams outside of club affiliations.

League legend Corey Parker’s entire family of four children will participate in the competition to be held in Logan in February. Picture: Contributed

Parker said his plans included expanding the event into a flagship Queensland competition.

“This isn’t just about rugby league; it’s about creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome,” Parker said.

“I wanted to give kids, including my own, a chance to experience the game in a fun, non-traditional way.

“My daughter doesn’t play league but her friends do – so she’ll be playing for their team. My son plays soccer but is also looking forward to having a game.

“It’s about bringing families together and leaving with smiles on their faces.”

The logo for the CP9 event organised by Corey Parker.

The weekend will feature more than 100 games with the fast-paced nine-a-side matches lasting 20 minutes each across four fields.

Set at Logan City Council’s Bill Norris Oval in Beenleigh, the event also promises a dynamic mix of sport and entertainment with the venue’s licensed canteen serving food and drinks.

St John Ambulance will be on site to monitor all matches and referees will abide by NRL codes of practice.

Off the field, families can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere complete with food trucks, DJs, and colourful team jerseys provided by sports apparel brand Struddys with each designed to reflect the diversity of participants.

Parker has secured substantial community and corporate support for the competition, including major sponsorship from Village Roadshow Theme Parks and contributions from Auswide Bank, Hutchinson Builders, Total Fusion, Howell Constructions, Raine and Horne and Bacchus Restaurant. Others include Formula Sports and Games, Front Row Financial and MaxiServe Maintenance.

Sports Minister Tim Mander welcomed the new competition.

“We are renowned for our vibrant sporting culture here in Queensland, and the state government welcomes initiatives and events that encourage Queenslanders to be active,” he said.

“While we are always excited to hear about new concepts and events, we have not been approached by the organisers of the Queensland CP9s Rugby League Tournament.

“But organisations are welcome to submit proposals to the Department of Sport, Racing and Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

Registration, which costs $166 per player, covers uniforms, insurance, and participation, with trophies up for grabs in each age group.

In addition to its inclusive format, CP 9s addresses a significant gap in junior sports by accommodating players who might not be able to commit to a full season and the All Abilities program is another point of difference.

Bill Norris Oval in Logan has been a popular venue.

“If you’ve got a busy schedule or play another sport, this is your chance to still enjoy rugby league,” Parker said.

“It’s about giving everyone the opportunity to participate and feel part of something bigger. I’ve seen first-hand how much joy and confidence sport can bring.”

The event’s inaugural year is expected to draw more than 3000 spectators, including families, friends, and rugby league enthusiasts.

With plans to expand to regions like the Gold Coast, Toowoomba, and the Sunshine Coast, Parker hopes CP 9s will grow into an annual fixture, uniting communities through the spirit of sport.

The opening ceremony will be on Saturday, February 22 at 8am when Parker will speak about his ambitious project.

Entry tickets are $5 per adult, with the action-packed weekend promising a rugby spectacular.