North Queensland pathways /

The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys are committed to creating pathways for home grown rugby league talent through our close affiliation and support of Queensland Cup feeder teams the Northern Pride and Mackay Cutters.

The Cowboys and its two feeder clubs are partners in a long-term strategy that provides a clear pathway to the National Rugby League for juniors from the region.

Northern Pride

Representing Far North Queensland, the Northern Pride were founded in 2007 and played their first Queensland Cup season in 2008.

Home ground: Barlow Park, Cairns

CEO: Garreth Smith

Coach: Eric Smith

More info: northernpride.com.au

Mackay Cutters

Representing Mackay and districts, the Mackay Cutters were founded in 2007 and played their first Queensland Cup season in 2008.

Home ground: BB Print Stadium, Mackay

CEO: Mitch Cook

Coach: Michael Comerford

More info: mackaycutters.com.au

North Queensland Cowboys Female Academy

The North Queensland Cowboys women's Academy was originally formed in 2020 and is facilitated by the Cowboys in collaboration with the Northern Pride, Townsville Blackhawks, and Mackay Cutters to identify potential players that could compete in the QLD statewide competitions.

Currently, the female Academy consists of 16 to 19-year-old females selected from the Capricornia, North Queensland and Peninsula regions to nurture players into the QRL U19s & open women’s QRL Harvey Norman’s U19s & BMD competitions with the Pride, Blackhawks, Cutters and Capras, whilst identifying potential NRLW players for the future.

The player selection process is by identification through local rugby league competitions, schoolgirls and representative pathways. Selections are done on a year-to-year basis.

Contacts

Glenn Hall, Head of NRL Elite Pathways
Tel: 0438 210 381
Email: ghall@cowboys.com.au