A round two Reef Bowl replay at home is one of the many highlights in the Mackay Maverick’s 2023/24 season schedule, kicking off in October.
The Mavericks went down to the Townsville Cyclones in last season's ultimate decider and the local team are looking forward to bringing the game back to Mackay fans.
The round two clash will headline a triple header at Western Suburbs Leagues Club on October 28, with all six north and central Queensland teams playing in Mackay on the day.
But, ahead of the season opener, Mavericks coach Brad Sommerville is focused on preseason preparations.
“Preseason is all about learning our game plan and the way we want to play and then heading up to the start of the season, we’ll focus in on round one and who we’re playing there,” he said.
“The boys have been training for quite a while now, we started training a few months ago, so we’re all ready to go for our season opener.”
The growth of gridiron in Mackay has seen new members join the squad, some more familiar with the game than others, and Mr Somerville is hopeful for the season ahead.
“We have quite a few players who turn up without knowing the game,” he said.
“They might’ve seen a few games on TV and know the basics but not the many, many, many rules we have.
“It takes a little bit to get them across the line but so far they’re all looking sharp and ready to go.”
The Mavericks have also announced a training/come and try session in Moranbah, both to accommodate the Bowen Basin-based players and to give the town a taste of American football.
The Mackay squad will open their season on October 21 against Mulgrave Vikings in Townsville before their first home game at Western Suburbs Leagues Club on October 28.
“We’re hoping to bring a fun and festive atmosphere this year, hopefully very similar to what college football is like in the states with some pre-game and half-time entertainment, some pumping music and hopefully a lot of local supporters there to cheer us on,” Mr Somerville said.
Visit Mackay Gridiron on Facebook for more information.
Mackay Mavericks Home Games
October 28, 2023 vs Townsville Cyclones (triple header)
November 18, 2023 vs Rockhampton Wolverines
January 20, 2024 vs Townsville Cyclones
January 27, 2024 vs Rockhampton Wolverines
