Northern Pride CEO has thrown his support behind the allegiance between them and the NQ Cowboys
Northern Pride have confirmed their allegiance with the North Queensland Cowboys as speculation continues around a Cairns based PNG NRL licence.
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Northern Pride have confirmed their allegiance with the North Queensland Cowboys as speculation continues around a Cairns based PNG NRL licence.
The NRL are looking at the potential to expand the league to 18 teams, announcing the 18th licence as early as next month.
The governing body are likely to announce PNG as the 18th licence, with ARL Commission boss Peter V’landys scuppering the idea of the team to be based in Cairns.
Pride’s CEO Garreth Smith said they are dedicated to the Cowboys.
“The Northern Pride acknowledges the current challenges posed by the NRL’s decision regarding a PNG team based in Cairns,” Smith said.
“However, our allegiance remains firmly with the NQ Cowboys, as per our long-term partnership.
“We are dedicated to maintaining and strengthening this relationship.
“While continuing to advocate for opportunities that benefit our region and the sustainability of rugby league pathways.”
The statement comes as the Northern Pride gear up to play the curtain raiser for the Cowboys match up against the West Tigers on Friday night in Townsville.
As the allegiance between the NQ Cowboys and Northern Pride hits 17-years, Cowboys general manager of football Michael Luck said there should be more curtain raisers for the feeder clubs.
“I would like to see more of them, I know we are lucky to have the Pride on Friday night and then the (Mackay) Cutters next week,” Luck said.
“Personally I think it is missing from game day, that second tier for our fans.
“I understand it is a home game for them but technically an away game because they have to travel as well.
“They also don’t get the revenue from the canteen and bar.
“But there should be more like it and it would be good to work it out somehow.”
The Pride are coming off a massive 46-point win against their rival feeder club and will look to continue their red-hot form to start the year.
“We encourage everyone to come down and watch the Pride, who are playing some really good footy at the moment,” Luck said.
“This gives the opportunity for people to come and watch the next potential stars coming through.
“There are players on the list who have played for the Cowboys.
“They have had a great start to the season and we want success for both our feeder clubs.
“The Cowboys were given that licence as a vehicle to be able to represent the region at the highest level.
“We have a number of juniors in our NRL squad, who are coming through over the next few years.
“This gives fans the opportunity to come and look at the next bit of talent from North Queensland.”
The Pride kicks off at 3:00pm against South Logan Magpies before the Cowboys host West Tigers at 6:00pm at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Friday May 24.
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