Corey Parker becomes Gymnastics Queensland Ambassador in push for more boys to try gymnastics

Brisbane Broncos legend Corey Parker has become an ambassador for a new sport, looking to address a gender imbalance at grassroots level in time for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA – JULY 13: Corey Parker is seen during the round 19 NRL match between Brisbane Broncos and St George Illawarra Dragons at Suncorp Stadium, on July 13, 2024, in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images)

Broncos great Corey Parker has a new sporting crusade which could flow all the way to the Brisbane Olympics.

Parker and his wife Margaux have signed up as Gymnastics Queensland Ambassadors in an effort to recruit more youngsters, particularly boys, to take up the sport.

There is a misconception gymnastics is a sport primarily for girls and while numbers are swayed that way Parker, who played 347 games for the Broncos, will push for more gender equity.

“Gymnastics builds strength, flexibility, co-ordination and body awareness which are great skills which can be carried into all parts of life,” Parker said.

“And it helps develop confidence, a sense of fun and something I know a lot about from my rugby league days – a feeling of camaraderie, where they learn the value of teamwork in an environment where they connect with like-minded participants who support each other.”

Corey Parker has a new sporting crusade in the form of gymnastics. Picture: Albert Perez/Getty Images

The Parker’s four children, including two boys, have taken part on some form of gymnastics to the delight of their parents who feel the sport teaches many of life’s key lessons.

“Children who participate in gymnastics learn to overcome challenges, face fears, and push through their limitations,” he said.

“The perseverance needed to learn new skills – and the ability to literally bounce back from setbacks helps foster important traits such as resilience and discipline.”

Corey Parker retired from the NRL in 2016. Picture: AAP Image/Tracey Nearmy

Gymnastics Queensland CEO Chris Rushton said recruitment numbers for gymnastics were surging in Queensland and he is pushing for more boys to become involved.

“Gymnastics is many things, but one of the things that it most certainly is not is just for girls,’’ Rushton said.

“It’s a sport for everyone – and we’re expecting an even greater boost ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games in our own backyard.

“Currently, 76 per cent of our 59,000 members – or about 45,000 – are female and we certainly want to continue growing the number of boys becoming involved.

“Corey and Margaux will help GQ connect with parents to showcase the benefits of the sport in Queensland, where membership numbers have surged to record levels for the third straight year.’’

Originally published as Corey Parker becomes Gymnastics Queensland Ambassador in push for more boys to try gymnastics