LOGAN City has been announced as the new “home-away-from-home” for the New Zealand Warriors rugby league team.
It was announced today (21 July) that the Warriors will partner with Logan City Council to set up the club’s first Australian training academy and community program.
The academy will offer an “elite” training and talent identification program in Logan, as well as a community program to help local young people connect with sport and career opportunities outside football.
The council will provide the Warriors with access to local fields and office space, and in return the league team will work directly with the city’s clubs, providing support to local coaches and players.
Mayor Jon Raven said the league world would have its eyes on Logan as the Warriors set up their new base at the Logan Metro Sports Park in Browns Plains.
“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,” Cr 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.”
New Zealand Warriors CEO Cameron George said the academy would provide a “direct pathway” for locals to the New Zealand Warriors NRL and NRLW teams.
He said there would also be come-and-try days, school visits and talent identification offered.
“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,” Mr George said.
A community day with the full Warriors squad will be hled on Friday 22 August the Logan Metro Sports Park in Browns Plains ahead of their game against the Gold Coast Titans.
The Warriors will be signing autographs and entry is free.
Fans can register to attend here.
