Some of the state’s rugby union stars are bound for the Sunshine Coast, as part of the ‘Reds to Regions’ initiative.
Fraser McReight, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Sam Wallis and Kalani Thomas will mix with community groups and be involved in training clinics from January 20-22.
They’re among 35 Reds to head to different regions of Queensland during the pre-season.
It will be the second time they travel the state, after a successful program last year.
“We’re excited to bring back ‘Reds to Regions’ in 2021,” coach Brad Thorn said.
“It was important for us to reconnect with the Queensland community. We got around the state. The communities loved it and so did the players.
“We want to show it wasn’t just a one-off last year. It’s all about care and connection between us and the people of Queensland.
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“We’re not the Brisbane Reds, we’re the Queensland Reds. If you’re going to represent your state, it’s important to know what it means to represent them.
“Like last year, we want the players spread across all parts of Queensland. Again, we want them billeting out amongst the different communities. We want to give back and we can’t wait to get out there again.
McReight and Paenga-Amosa are emerging stars on the inter-state and international stage, having played for the Wallabies in the recent Tri-Nations.
Reds on Sunshine Coast, schedule
Wednesday, January 20
10.30-11.30am – Wheelchair Rugby experience at Sunshine Coast Clippers basketball stadium in Buderim. Also present will be Ryan Scott OAM and Chris Bond OAM, both wheelchair rugby Australian representatives end Olympic Gold Medal winners.
2pm-4pm – Training Clinic for Junior players at Baringa Soccer field in the Aura estate.
4pm-6pm – Training Clinic for Junior Girls Sevens players at Nambour Rugby Club, Woombye.
6pm-8pm – Training Clinic for Sunshine Coast Colts (U19) players and coaches at Caloundra Rugby Club. Present also will be Reds defence Coach Michael Todd.
Thursday, January 21
9am-10am – Treetop Challenge at the Big Pineapple in Woombye.
11am-1pm – Training Clinic for junior players at Chancellor Soccer field in the Harmony Estate, Palmview.
11am-1pm – Training Clinic for Junior players at Nambour Rugby Club, Woombye.
4pm-6pm – Training Clinic for Junior players at Eumundi Rugby Club, Eumundi,
5pm-6pm – Training Clinic for junior players at Albert Park, Gympie.
Friday January 22
9am-10am – Robbie Sherwell Surf School experience.
11am-1pm – Training Clinic for Junior players at Brothers Rugby Club, Kawana.
1pm-2pm – Media information session on QRU IN TOUCH mental health awareness program.
