QRL drives scholarship program to encourage wider pathway participation

The Queensland Rugby League is raising the bar in its quest to make the RISE development program even more accessible to players across the state through the launch of a unique scholarship opportunity. 

Backed by its three regions, the QRL has committed $40,000 to support a scholarship program that aims to encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply for the RISE program. 

The QRL can confirm the program will be closely aligned to its Diversity and Inclusion Framework and Reconciliation Action Plan, to make the game more accessible to females, Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islanders, Pasifika people and people in social disadvantage. 

Scholarship application forms will be distributed to all registered players once placements in the RISE program are finalised.

This Framework was launched by the QRL in August last year as a formal commitment by the game to lead change and make a significant difference across communities. 

QRL general manager of community rugby league Glenn Ottaway said one of the objectives of the RISE program was to broaden the development base across the state. 

“This investment is about removing some of the existing financial barriers that may prevent individuals from joining the program,” Ottaway said. 

“As a game, we’re extremely excited about the positive outcomes we can achieve for Queenslanders who love rugby league and want to learn more and further themselves.” 

The expression of interest process for the RISE program is currently open, with no initial financial commitment required. 

Since applications opened last month, more than 1380 male and female participants, aged 13 to 15 years, have registered their interest. 

One of the strengths of the RISE program is that its delivery is led by community leagues who are invested in their local areas. 

The QRL wish to advise that any club or league interested in offering their participants support with the program fees can purchase vouchers.