New Zealand Warriors set up new Australian base in Logan
In a huge coup for Logan, the legendary New Zealand Warriors rugby league team will set up a training academy and community program in the City of Logan, as part of a partnership with Logan City Council.
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 football.
Mayor Jon Raven says the league world will have its eyes on Logan as the mighty Warriors set up their new home-away-from-home 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,’ Mayor Raven says.
‘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.’
ABOVE: Local Logan rugby league fans gather to hear the announcement about the NZ Warriors launching a new Logan base.
New Zealand Warriors Chief Executive Officer Cameron George says they will be establishing a 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 says.
‘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.’
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.
Local sponsor of the Warriors and Ausbuild Managing Director, Matt Bell, says the partnership would provide career opportunities for young people.
‘Sport can be a great way to make connections with community and find employment opportunities, including apprenticeships and jobs,’ he says.
‘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 is here for their Captain’s Run on Friday, 22 August, at 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.
PHOTO AT TOP: From left, celebrating the new rugby league arrangement are CEO of the New Zealand Warriors Cameron George, Logan Mayor Jon Raven, and Ausbuild Managing Director Matt Bell.