Localsearch partners Laurie Spina Shield for 3 more years
The Laurie Spina Shield, the largest under-11 rugby league carnival in the southern hemisphere, will continue to inspire the next generation of grassroots players, thanks to the extended support of presenting partner Localsearch.
The three-year extension builds on a five-year partnership with the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys, centred on the two-day carnival that culminates in eight junior teams having the opportunity to run out on Queensland Country Bank Stadium as a curtain raiser to a top-grade Cowboys home game.
Celebrating its 25th year and attracting over 60 teams and more than 1,000 players, coaches and trainers in 2022, the Laurie Spina Shield has nurtured current and former Cowboys including Reuben Cotter, Mitch Dunn, Kyle Feldt, Tom Dearden and Michael Morgan, and continues to attract top junior talent from around the state.
Localsearch Director of Digital and Growth, Adam Boote said the partnership is an opportunity for Localsearch to connect with the community, with many of their clients having their own children involved in the carnival.
“Sport is a big part of the culture and community of North Queensland and at Localsearch,” he said. “Our founders are strong believers in the research connecting sport with development not possible through book learning alone, and they always look for opportunities to support this on a large scale.
“With the Laurie Spina Shield, it’s not only being able to attend the event and see everything come to life, or even seeing our logo on signage, balls, shirts and other merchandise we can provide for the event - a big part of it is being able to see what an impact this event has on so many children.
“For us, the partnership is as much about being part of the community in a way that’s genuine to our business.”
Held in conjunction with the Cowboys v Roosters Round 4 NRL game, this year’s event was the first time since 2019 that teams have had the opportunity to play the curtain raiser games on the big stage, and also marks the first time they’ve graced the field at the new Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
Teams taking part in the on-field action were selected on the back of their team spirit and fair play throughout the carnival, as voted by referees and player managers.
All teams participating in the carnival also had the chance to nominate players to take part in the Fastest Feet relay at NRL half time, creating a spectacle like no other.
Congratulations go to the Herbert River Crushers, who picked up a $1,000 cheque for their conduct during the carnival, thanks to Localsearch.
