The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys have overhauled the feeder club allocation system for the 2023 season.
Under the new QRL adequate allocation rules, fringe Cowboys NRL squad members will be allocated to the Townsville Blackhawks with the remaining squad members to be allocated to the Mackay Cutters and Northern Pride.
With the expanded player allocation to the Blackhawks, the Cowboys will provide increased resources and financial commitment to fellow feeder clubs - Mackay Cutters and Northern Pride and the wider rugby league communities in the Mackay and Cairns regions.
The change in the allocation system was made after exhaustive consultation with the QRL and feeder clubs in an effort to build increased combinations and continuity among Cowboys squad members outside the NRL playing 17 and strengthen all three feeder clubs.
“We believe this reconstruction of our pathways systems will not only enhance our program, but also strengthen our three feeder clubs,” Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel.
“After consultation with all three feeder clubs, it became evident the previous system needed revamping.
“Moving forward, Cowboys fringe NRL players will have the opportunity to play alongside each other and build combinations at Queensland Cup level.
“An increased financial commitment to both the Cutters and Pride will provide both clubs with greater ability to develop and more importantly retain local products as well as attract talent as opposed to relying on the possibility of our NRL squad members dropping back, which becomes more unpredictable as the season wears on.
“On top of the introduction of women’s academies in both Mackay and Cairns, the Cowboys have committed to increased focus and resources for junior development in both regions, which will ultimately provide greater opportunities to feed into our NRL system.”
