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Construction Skills Qld helps Broncos build careers
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CONSTRUCTION Skills Queensland (CSQ) and the Brisbane Broncos have announced a unique partnership which will help junior players at the club find pathways into construction.
The alliance will also showcase careers in the industry to rugby league players and fans across Queensland.
The new partnership will see the construction industry body become the major sponsor of the Broncos Elite Player Development (EPD) squad for the 2015 season. 
Created in 2006, the EPD squad consists of more than 250 young players from across Queensland who have shown strong potential in the sport. The program aims to educate young players on all aspects of rugby league, both on and off the field and to enhance their prospects of playing in the NRL.
Through the Broncos welfare program, young players and their families will be able to learn more from CSQ about construction careers and gain advice on training.
CSQ CEO Brett Schimming said the partnership was a win-win for both organisations.
“CSQ promotes the construction industry as a career of first choice, offering over 70 different career paths across the industry, from carpentry to project management.
“Working with the Broncos provides us with a platform to deliver this message to fit and active rugby league players across the state who are ideally suited to working in construction.
“We believe that gaining experience in construction will not only help these aspiring Broncos in their careers, but also as footballers.
“Undertaking an apprenticeship teaches great habits including team work, autonomy, responsibility and planning, he said.
Brisbane Broncos CEO Paul White said training and education off the field was a top priority for the club.
“The Broncos have an extensive range of welfare programs in place to ensure our players have a career pathway in place for life after football.
“Through this exciting new partnership with CSQ, our junior players will now have access to the best possible advice on beginning an apprenticeship or traineeship.
“Gaining a trade represents a great opportunity for a young footballer as they will develop skills they can use for life,” he said.
Broncos front rower Mitchell Dodds has experienced the benefits of having a trade first-hand. The qualified electrician was on the verge of leaving the NRL at the end of last season before new coach Wayne Bennett invited him to be part of the 2015 squad.
Knowing he could return to his trade at any time, Mitchell was able to seize the opportunity with confidence.
Young rising stars at the club such as Jai Arrow and Aaron Rockley will have similar peace of mind throughout their careers as they undertake respective plumbing and carpentry apprenticeships.
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