Burdekin’s Young Footballers Set For State Stage

For the first time ever, a team from Burdekin’s own Football Queensland Academy hub will take part in the state’s Junior Cup—a major milestone for the region’s growing football program.

The team of Under-12 boys will join hundreds of players from across Queensland for the Football Queensland Academy Carnival, which kicks off on the Sunshine Coast this week. The carnival features separate formats for different age groups: Under-12s and older compete in the Junior Cup, while Under-9s to 11s play in the Winter Fest carnival.

Burdekin is part of Football Queensland Academy–Northern, and operates its own local hub. Players train weekly in Ayr and have the option of travelling to Townsville for additional sessions with the wider North Queensland squad.

Ready To Go Toe-To-Toe With The Best

“This is the first State Titles where we’ve had a Burdekin hub team,” said head coach Chris Wicks. “It’s a big deal for the region and a huge opportunity for our kids.”

The Under-12 boys will be joined by several other Burdekin players across the age groups, including a strong contingent of girls. Due to limited numbers, the girls will link up with the Townsville Academy to form combined squads, while the boys will play as a standalone Burdekin hub team.

The Burdekin teams will compete in Tier 2 of the carnival’s three-tiered system—a placement based on geography, player base, and coaching accreditation. While Tier 1 clubs typically draw from large metropolitan areas and boast A- or B-licenced coaches, Burdekin fits the Tier 2 category with its smaller talent pool and C Diploma coaching qualifications.

“It’s competitive without being too onerous on the kids,” Wicks explained. “It’s about development, and this is where you really see players improve—when they test themselves against strong academies and clubs from Brisbane.”

The growth of the Burdekin Academy hub has been dramatic. In its first year, only three players were selected to represent North Queensland. Now, in its third year, that number has grown to nearly 50.

“We always say we’ve got skin in the game,” said Wicks. “These are our kids. We’ve got to look after our local kids because we want to see them come through the junior pathways and play for our senior club. Without this work now, the senior club doesn’t survive.”

The commitment required is no small feat—some families will be away for up to nine days, attending both Winter Fest and the Junior Cup.

“It’s like a holiday, but you get to play football as well."

“It’s a big ask, but also a great learning experience—both on and off the pitch.”

After strong performances at recent carnivals in Mackay and Townsville—where the Under-12s lost just once—hopes are high for another step forward.

“It’ll be great to see how we stack up against the southeast corner teams,” Wicks said. “We’re excited to see where we’re at—and even more excited for the kids.”

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After strong performances at recent carnivals in Mackay and Townsville—where the Under-12s lost just once—hopes are high for another step forward. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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