Radiant Life College’s Ganyarra Rugby League Academy celebrated a landmark community event this week, welcoming more than 150 young players to its first Open Day at Callendar Park in Innisfail on Wednesday, 3 July.
Aspiring players aged between seven and 16 years travelled from across the region and beyond to take part, with youngsters arriving from as far as Townsville, Cairns and Ingham. Participants were grouped by age and guided through a series of skill stations, giving every young athlete the chance to build their game while having fun.
The morning culminated in three rounds of short games to put their skills into action, followed by a sausage sizzle and an opportunity to spend time with the former NRL players who make up the Academy staff: Antonio Winterstein, James Tamou, Robert Lui, and Michael Bani, as well as strength and conditioning coach and former international footballer Josh Pin.
The Open Day was a manifestation of the academy’s commitment to nurturing regional talent and creating clear pathways for young players to grow both on and off the field.
Academy Cultural Officer Michael Bani said the response exceeded all expectations.
“The turnout, the effort, and the participation was just unbelievable,” Mr Bani said.
“We had kids all the way from Townsville. The effort to come here just speaks volumes about what went on today.”
He said the academy’s coaching team, made up of former professional players, feels a deep responsibility to support the next generation.
“It’s our responsibility as coaches, especially now that we’re here in the region, to form that partnership, that connection with these young athletes, and to really nurture them, regardless of who they are, where they’re from, or which club they play for,” Mr Bani said.
Assistant Academy Coach Robert Lui said the energy and enthusiasm on the day made it a memorable occasion for everyone involved.
“It was a very successful turnout and it was great to see the smiles on their faces,” he said.
Mr Lui added that the academy is focused on giving young players the tools and belief to reach their potential.
“This pathway gives them the confidence to say, ‘I can do this,'” he said.
“Today we got to see some of the raw talent that’s out there, and it was great.”
“They’re the next generation, the people who are going to carry on the love of rugby league.”
The Ganyarra Rugby League Academy extends its thanks to every player, family and volunteer who helped make the Open Day such a success, and looks forward to continuing to develop local talent across the region.