New Zealand Warriors strike deal with Logan City Council to set up new training academy in Queensland
In a landmark partnership, the Warriors will set up a new training academy in South East Queensland, a move which could see future stars cross the Tasman instead of joining the Broncos, Titans or Dolphins.
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The New Zealand Warriors have kicked a massive goal, striking a deal with a revered rugby league nursery in Queensland that could see future stars cross the Tasman instead of joining the Broncos, Titans or Dolphins.
In a landmark partnership, the Warriors and Logan City Council will set up a training academy and community program in the City of Logan.
Logan, in South East Queensland, has produced some of the game’s greatest NRL players including Cameron Smith, Josh Papalii, Corey Parker, Israel Folau, and Lote Tuqiri.
Warriors CEO Cameron George has struck the deal after 12 months of talks with Logan City Council, which has led to the establishment of a ‘home away from home’ for the New Zealand NRL club.
The academy will offer an elite training and talent identification program, as well as a community program to help young people connect with sport and career opportunities outside of rugby league.
Mayor Jon Raven said the league world would have its eyes on Logan as the Warriors set up their new “home-away-from-home” base at the Logan Metro Sports Park in Browns Plains.
With the combination of Logan City’s significant Pasifika population and community and the Warriors rich Pasifika heritage, the partnership has the power to change lives.
“So many league legends have come from Logan and we’re thrilled to welcome the Warriors to our city to nurture more NRL stars of the future,” Mayor Raven said.
“Logan is the leading rugby league nursery in the nation and has one of the largest populations of people of New Zealand and Pacific Island descent outside of Auckland.
“The Warriors are known for their strong community connections and supporting development opportunities for young people, which are values we love here in Logan – the youngest, most diverse and fastest growing city in Queensland.”
Logan City Council will provide the Warriors with access to facilities such as fields and office space.
The program will work directly with local rugby league clubs, supporting local coaches and players with a direct connection to an NRL team, and building the game in Logan.
George said the Warriors would be employing permanent staff in Logan to work closely with the community.
“As a club, we focus on the person first and foremost. It’s not just about footy – it’s about providing opportunities to all young people so they can reach their potential,” he said.
“Our elite academy for boys and girls in Logan will provide a direct pathway to the New Zealand Warriors NRL and NRLW teams.
“Through the community program we’ll also be offering come-and-try days, school visits and talent identification.”
Local sponsor of the Warriors and Ausbuild Managing Director Matt Bell said the partnership would provide career opportunities for young people.
“Sport can be a great way to make connections with the community and find employment opportunities, including apprenticeships and jobs,” he said.
“Ausbuild has a history of working with clubs to build pathways for young people and we’re excited to join with the Warriors and Logan City Council.”
Logan City Council will host a community day when the full Warriors squad trains at the Logan Metro Sports Park in Browns Plains ahead of their game against the Gold Coast Titans on Friday, August 22.
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Originally published as New Zealand Warriors strike deal with Logan City Council to set up new training academy in Queensland
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