Tigers' building plan for future

Finals footy may be out of reach for Redcliffe Tigers’ wheelchair team – but foundations are already being laid for their 2026 AFL campaign.

Tigers have three matches of this year’s Queensland Wheelchair Football League remaining and currently sit fourth on the ladder.

In their first home games of the season, Tigers went down to leaders Morningside and Mt Gravatt at Grace Lutheran College, Rothwell.

That means the 2024 Premiers may relinquish their crown, but coach Stephen French is using every opportunity to plan ahead.

“This year has been about building the squad again, strengthening the foundations and looking to next year,” French says.

“Redcliffe was the first club to put a team into this AFL competition. In the first season we made the grand final and lost to Morningside.

“Last year we made the grand final again and beat Morningside, but this season has been more about players coming in and working for next year.

“Tigers have been very supportive and we’re looking to promote it in a bigger way.”

Wheelchair AFL is open to anyone, of any age, male or female. Tigers’ wheelchair squad includes able-bodied and disabled players.

All are given a points classification, which is then used to meet a pre-set points total for the five players on field.

“Able-bodied people play, but it takes a while for them to get competitive,” French said.

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“Being in a wheelchair is actually a leveller for new players. It takes a while to get used to it … to begin with our chair skills are far superior.”

Redcliffe Tigers are hoping to hold a come-and-try day later this month – details to be finalised - to attract more players.

This year's league features Tigers, Morningside, Beenleigh, Ormeau and Mt Gravatt. Morningside are top having won every game, except a 30-30 draw with Tigers.

Redcliffe’s two victories this season have been against Beenleigh Buffaloes - 48-16 and 41-14 in rounds two and three.

Tigers face Beenleigh Buffaloes and Ormeau Bulldogs at Marsden State High School on Sunday 

They then finish the season by travelling to play Mt Gravatt Vultures at Hibiscus Sports Centre on July 13.

For further information and contact details visit www.redcliffetigers.com.au/wheelchair