The Dolphins will expand their commitment to developing the next generation of rugby league talent, taking on the delivery of the Wide Bay Bulls talent development programs across the Wide Bay region.
Under a new Participation Agreement with Queensland Rugby League (QRL), the Dolphins will assume responsibility for administering the Wide Bay Bulls program, strengthening the pathway available to young male and female players throughout the region.
The transition follows collaboration between the Dolphins, QRL and the Wide Bay Bulls after members voted to wind up the Wide Bay Bulls incorporated association at a special general meeting in July.
The move builds on the Dolphins’ established presence across Wide Bay, with the club already investing in rugby league development throughout the region.
In Bundaberg, the Dolphins’ partnership with Waves helps fund a full-time Game Development Officer, providing dedicated support to schools and rugby league clubs throughout the local catchment.
The club also has an established presence through school competitions, coach education programs and existing full-time staffing resources, providing a strong foundation to further support the development of rugby league across Wide Bay.
The Wide Bay Bulls currently field male and female teams in the Cyril Connell Cup and Harvey Norman Under 17 competitions, with the pathway beginning through Academy programs for players aged 13 to 16.
Bringing the program under the Dolphins will further connect young players in the region with an established development pathway and provide opportunities to progress towards higher levels of the game.
The Dolphins will work closely with QRL and local rugby league stakeholders to build on the work already undertaken throughout Wide Bay and ensure players continue to have access to high-quality coaching, development and representative opportunities.
