Nothing by halves: Playmaker will give his all to Western Clydesdales

He ranks among one of Toowoomba Rugby League’s greatest ever talents and has played at the elite junior level for some of Australia’s biggest clubs. Now Cory McGrady is ready to make his mark for his home town club – the Western Clydesdales.

Western Clydesdales playmaker Cory McGrady takes on the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs line during a trial match. Picture: Nev Madsen.

LEAGUE: It’s hard to miss Cory McGrady no matter where he plays.

Whether the ball is in his hands or coming off his boot the talented playmaker regularly produces the plays that excite rugby league fans.

However, if the 29-year-old’s dreams of a Hostplus Cup start come true this Sunday it will not be the ‘Cory McGrady Show’ it will be the ‘Western Clydesdales Show’.

“Rugby league is a team sport,” McGrady said.

“It’s absolutely important we play for each other, for the team and that everyone goes out there and does their job.

“I think all the boys are ready – they can’t wait to get out their to represent the Western Clydesdales and show what they can do.

Cory McGrady in action for the Gold Coast Titans NYC Toyota Cup side. Picture: Adam Head

“Hopefully we can get the win this weekend. That’s the goal every week to be competitive and get the win.”

McGrady is no stranger to the pressure cooker atmosphere of elite level rugby league.

After signing with the Gold Coast Titans at 13-years-of-age he later ran out for the Queensland side in the National Youth Cup (under-20s).

He also played for the Sydney Roosters and the Melbourne Storm at the same level.

McGrady also played a handful of Cup games for the Sunshine Coast Falcons before returning to Toowoomba in 2018.

Since his Toowoomba Rugby League return McGrady has been one of the competition’s star playmakers and his 2022 TRL Webcke Price Medal winning performance was rewarded with a Clydesdales contract.

“I’m glad the Clydesdales are back in the competition,” McGrady said.

“It would be an unreal feeling to pull on the jersey.

“It’s a long pre-season and I’m keen to get out there on the field and rip in.”