Clubs hold the power

FNQ Rugby kicks off early with ‘fluid’ draw

A FLUID fixture list which allows clubs the flexibility to showcase the 15-man code under lights is the hallmark of FNQ Rugby’s new draw.

Rugby will explode to life nine days earlier than originally planned, with three games over three days to kick off the delayed season.

Six teams will contest a 10round A-grade competition, which will start with a Thursday night clash between Mudcrabs and Brothers.

Defending champions JCU Mariners will host the returning Wanderers in a Friday Show holiday blockbuster clash, before Port Douglas hosts regular title contenders Barron Trinity Bulls on the Saturday.

FNQ Rugby president John Pirie has promised the rugby community this year’s schedule would be fluid, and on that he has delivered.

“We have a draw where I hope our clubs will get together and play games under lights,” Pirie said.

“Clubs have the flexibility to change their games to Friday nights.

“The draw is done, the clubs have their two weeks of contact training and then we’re back on the field on July 16.”

The women’s competition, the first to be run by FNQ Rugby in years, will feature either three or four teams in the 10-per-side format, with flexibility for games against a Townsville team in Tully each week.

The schedule was drawn up with three teams, as officials await confirmation that Brothers will have the player numbers to field the fourth team.

In the Brethren’s place is a Townsville team, which Pirie said would be whichever Townsville and District Rugby Union side had the bye that week.

“That’s just two unions working together,” Pirie said.

“But if Townsville wants in, we’ll make it happen.”

The women’s competition will likely start on July 25.

Four clubs have entered reserve grade teams. The first round of the new season will kick-off on July 16, with finals to start September 26 and the grand final on October 10.