Football Queensland names CQU Official University Partner
Football Queensland (FQ) is excited to announce CQUniversity as its Official University Partner for the next three years, in an innovative partnership that will integrate sports science research, player development and rehabilitation, and coach educational opportunities across Queensland’s football landscape.
In this partnership, CQU will play a key role in providing physiotherapy, chiropractic, and podiatry education services to FQ Academy teams, at major carnivals, and in player development sessions.
The University will also deliver sports science students for placements within the FQ Academy, to offer tailored training support that improves player performance.
Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci explained that the partnership demonstrates FQ’s ongoing commitment to player and coach development, as well as strengthening the connection between football and education.
“We are thrilled to partner with CQUniversity as we integrate cutting-edge education and research into our high-performance pathways, ensuring we remain dynamic in our approach and consistently implement new best practices that benefit all our participants,” Cavallucci said.
“This partnership will provide FQ Academy and Queensland State Team players with access to expert physiotherapy, chiropractic, and podiatry services, while also offering CQU sports science students the opportunity to work closely with our emerging athletes, supporting training programs and player welfare, and gaining invaluable experience in an elite environment that contributes to the development of the next generation of sports science professionals.
“CQU will also play a crucial role in advancing coach education across Queensland by providing its facilities for FQ coaching seminars and workshops, and contributing their expertise to FQ events, conferences, and workshops, offering valuable insights on injury prevention, load management, and performance optimisation.
“Additionally, CQU will run clinics for players, parents, and coaches, promoting best practices in athlete care and development, and strengthening the community's understanding of sports science.
“We’re also excited to collaborate with CQU on future research projects aimed at advancing player development and injury prevention while opening up more opportunities for higher education pathways for FQ participants and members.”
CQUniversity Director of Sport Strategy Professor Fabio Serpiello said CQU’s diverse expertise was a perfect fit for Queensland’s fastest-growing participation sport.
“CQU is proud that our unique sport science, rehabilitation and community sport expertise is supporting the important work and growth of Football Queensland, across high performance, grassroots engagement, and leadership development,” Prof Serpiello said.
Dean of the School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Professor Andy Stewart highlighted CQU’s unique state-wide footprint to promote and support footballers at a grassroots level.
“Whether it’s city or region or remote town, everywhere CQU operates in Queensland, football is a key sport in that community,” Prof Stewart said.
“CQU’s community-connected, inclusive approach is a perfect fit to meaningfully support the growth of accessible, empowering physical activity and competition, especially for girls and women, and people of all abilities.”
Explore CQUniversity's Sport Strategy, partnerships and programs here.
