The Mackay Cutters will kick-off their 2023 Hostplus Cup season in only two months, with the first game lined up against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls on March 11.
The Cutters managed to secure three out of four home games in the opening four rounds of the competition, with rounds two, three and four being played at BB Print Stadium.
The Cutters women in the all-new BMD Premiership will follow the same format as the men for the first six rounds, with round seven to be confirmed.
The Hastings Deering Colts U21 competition will start more than a month later, with round one a home game for the young Cutters side on April 22 against the Devils. However, the Harvey Norman U19 side will start their campaign first, with three away games, commencing on February 25 against the Pride.
The QCCS Mackay Cutters are optimistic for a stellar season, with exciting signings already announced last year.
Scotland Rugby League World Cup representative Kyle Schneider has re-signed with the QCCS Mackay Cutters. Schneider made three appearances for Scotland, finishing the World Cup with an 80-minute game against Fiji.
Kim Williams, Head of Football was contacted by Nathan Graham, Scotland’s Head Coach a couple of months before the World Cup.
“Any time we can help a player to play for his country, play for his heritage, that’s something, as a club, we need to be really proud of and keep supporting in the future,” Kim said.
Two more major re-signings for the season are Hiale Roycroft and Luke Webley, who will again turn out for the Cutters in 2023 after agreeing to terms last year.
Both players were priority signings for new Head Coach Michael Comerford after impressive performances throughout season 2022.
Coach Comerford said Hiale’s value to the squad goes well beyond his on-field contributions as he is a genuine leader within the club and a mentor to many of our young forwards.
“His commitment to self-improvement is an inspiration to our playing group and he is also a tireless worker within the community.”
Coach Comerford also said that Luke had a breakout season in 2022 where he cemented a spot in the 2nd row for the HostPlus Cup side, despite still being eligible for the Under 21s.
“He is a local Junior who has progressed rapidly through our pathways system to stamp himself as a genuine 1st Grade player in the HostPlus Cup.
“Luke’s signature for 2023 was a high priority for the Cutters as we believe he is a player who can progress to the next level with another season of Cup under his belt.”
