An NRL and state government partnership aims to inspire girls to join National Women’s Rugby League (NRLW) – potentially enhancing Logan’s reputation for nurturing rugby talent.
School’s like Marsden State High School (MSHS) will participate in the program aimed to support aspiring teachers and students to continue their sporting endeavours.
MSHS already has alumni playing for the Broncos, Titans, Cowboys and Sharks NRLW teams.
The program will allow teachers from all Queensland schools, to engage with the NRL through an online portal where resources and assistance can be accessed.
NRLW players will also work with local schools, with up to 10 players recruited for part-time permanent teacher aide positions, to provide them with post-rugby career paths.
Ex-MSHS student, Brisbane Broncos and Queensland Maroons player Destiny Brill, and Gold Coast Titans player Sienna Lofipo, are working with the school prior to program’s inception.
Ms Brill said her work with the school was beneficial to both her and the students.
“I’ve loved the opportunity to work at Marsden State High School as a teacher aide,” Ms Brill said.
“I’m really keen to make sure that I have options after football, and teaching has always been an area I was interested in.
“This program will help me stay involved in schools and education while also being able to continue playing.”
It will also include opportunities for schools to be involved in NRL events, such as playing before State of Origin matches or other NRL games.
NRL general manager of school participation, Andrew Peach, said the NRL was “excited to be able to support schools and teachers” across the state.
“…while also providing an outstanding career pathway for our elite female athletes,” he said.
“Any school staff member with an interest in Rugby League can sign up to the program via our new Schools Portal on the Play Rugby League website, with some great resources, prizes, rewards, and competitions available throughout the year.
“We understand the important role our schools play in leading our communities and the even more important role teachers and school staff play in helping young kids be fit, healthy and active through rugby league.
“The NRL wants to recognise the outstanding role teachers play in our communities and the positive impact they make in kids’ lives.
The Minister for Education Grace Grace said teachers and students had the chance to engage with rugby “in a whole new way”.
“The teacher aide initiative will help provide positive role models for our high school rugby league players and support aspiring teachers, while the school’s ambassador program will bring staff and students closer to the action,” Ms Grace said.
“Rugby league is a community-building sport that provides students with pathways to lifelong learning, teamwork, and leadership.
“The presence of elite women players in our schools will not only boost engagement in sport but carve out opportunities for athletes to enrol in further study and long-term employment in the education sector once their career on the field is over.
“The joint initiative is an innovative approach that underscores our commitment to realising the potential of every student while promoting teaching as an exciting career for our state’s best.”
