QRL rebel State Development Series /

Queensland Rugby League is proud to announce a new partnership with rebel that will focus on further developing the statewide footprint that provides pathways for aspiring Queensland players.

In a significant boost for grassroots rugby league, the partnership will place a key emphasis on supporting the development of boys and girls aged 13 to 16 years through the rebel State Development Series.  

In season 2023 QRL will launch the State Development Series for aspirational male and female junior rugby league players.

Who will compete in the Series?

Teams from 21 locations across Queensland will compete in the series. Each location will be able to enter teams in the following age groups:

• Male: Under 13, Under 14, and Under 15
• Female: Under 14 and Under 16

Locations will enter between one and three teams (20 to 60 players) in each age group. The number of teams will be determined jointly between the QRL and location and will be based on overall participation figures.

The following locations will enter teams:

• North – FNQ, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa, and Remote Areas
• Central – Rockhampton, Gladstone, Central Highlands, Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast, Bundaberg, South Burnett, Roma, Toowoomba, and Warwick & District
• South East – Norths Devils, Redcliffe, Brisbane Tigers, Wynnum Manly, Souths Logan, Ipswich, and Gold Coast

When and where will the Series be held?

In July and September. For specific dates and venues, click here.

How can I join a team and be involved in the series?

There are two ways a player can get involved:

• Under 13 and Under 14 players will directly apply and register via MySideline. Each location will review registrations to ensure players meet the nomination criteria.
• Under 15 and Under 16 players will receive an invitation directly from the location to register. These players will then have the choice to accept or decline the offer.
• All players and coaches who join a team will complete the RISE Player and Coach Development Program. Any player or coach that does not attend or complete the program will not be eligible to play in the series.

For more information about player registrations and carnival details, click here.

Nomination criteria

Players should nominate to join a team if they have the ambition and aspiration to further develop their rugby league. The following criteria must be met:

• Currently registered to a Junior Rugby League club
• Have an aspiration to play in QRL's pathway competition from age U16
• Willing to work hard and commit to the entirety of the RISE program and rebel State Development Series
• Be coachable and bring an appropriate character in line with the values of the Maroons and RISE
• The endorsement of your Junior Rigby League club

** The criteria are general, and programs may be oversaturated. In that instance, local committees will review all nominations and approve the final team lists.

What is RISE?

The RISE Program is the QRL-approved statewide development program for players seeking a pathway beyond community rugby league.  It provides an agreed and consistent statewide framework for players and coaches regardless of where you play or live.

Junior rugby league players have an avenue to obtain specialised training and education through an evidence-based rugby league experience. It is designed to provide players with an environment that will foster their Confidence, Competence, Connection, and Character to improve their performance, personal development, and the likelihood of them being lifelong contributors to the game. The program provides the development avenue and opportunity to gain specialised training and education in the following areas:

• Prepare to Play Program
• Technical and tactical skill workshops
• Physical Development Program
• Life-Fit Program

Click on the link for further information: QRL RISE

Is RISE a pathway in Rugby League?

The RISE Program in conjunction with the State Development Series forms the foundation pathways for our male and female players within the game

QRL Female Pathway

QRL Male Pathway

Can I be a coach or volunteer with RISE?

Yes. RISE offers development opportunities to coaches and support staff in the following areas:

• Head coach – Coordination and management of all coaching activities and staff through the delivery of program content.
• Lead and development coaches- Coordination of age group sessions including skills, education, and game-related activities
• Program manager- Liaise with the coaching staff and local leagues to oversee the coordination of the program
• Strength and conditioning coach- Oversee the delivery of the Physical Development Program
• Life-Fit coach- Facilitate activities and education that supports the player’s Socio-emotional development.                                                                                                                             
• Sports trainers / team managers – Provide support to age group teams through programs and tournaments.

How much does it cost?

Players will be a fee of between $100 to $150 plus GST depending on the location and team joined. The fee supports participation in RISE (five training sessions), participation in the rebel State Development Series, and the provision of training and game apparel.

Participants will be responsible for any travel and accommodation required to participate.