Statement: Player Development Framework

The Queensland Rugby League has today advised Under 13 competitions will have results recorded and winners declared.

Recent reporting competitions in south east Queensland will not have competition points registered in this age group was inaccurate. 

Development competitions will be run for participants in Under 6 to Under 12 under a structure that allows coaches to focus entirely on the technical, tactical, physical and social development of players.

This structure is not intended to discourage healthy competition on the field at any age.

Rather, it is a mechanism for removing the ‘win at all costs’ attitude that is widely reported, across all sport, as detrimental to player development and retention.

In relation to TAG Rugby League participation, the QRL would like to provide context to some misguided commentary that suggests young players will not learn to tackle.

The QRL is in fact placing an even greater emphasis on the tackle component of the game through a six-session program designed to ensure all children receive a quality introduction to this key aspect of rugby league and develop both their confidence and competence in all tackle situations.

The program has been specifically designed to ready children for tackle and increase the overall rugby league experience for participants by equipping players with the skills and confidence to tackle properly, make contact and fall safely.

Survey results from last year’s Player Development Framework testing phase show that 85 per cent of parents reported their child had improved confidence after completing the program. 

Research supports that the biggest barrier to ‘early’ entry in to rugby league is tackling and contact.

Tag Rugby League allows new participants to learn basic game concepts while removing the above barrier.

About the Player Development Framework

• The Framework recommends seven key initiatives that have been developed following an extensive period of research
• It is designed to promote lifelong engagement with rugby league – consistent with the overall purpose of the QRL
• The Framework aligns delivery of the game with the specific needs of participants relative to their age, skill level and long term aspiration and development
• All approved initiatives of the Framework can be implemented by Leagues over an extended period of time with the support of employed staff in their area