Former North Melbourne star Leigh Harding will return as the Queensland men’s coach for the 2024 Rep Rivalry clash against Tasmania in June on the Gold Coast.
The state representative match sees some of the best players and rising stars of the QAFL and Bond University QAFLW competitions don the maroon jumper against Tasmania.
In 2024, Harding will have redemption in his sights after the Queensland men’s side narrowly went down to the Devils in Hobart in 2023.
Harding said he was thrilled to return to the post in 2024.
“It was a privilege to lead the group in 2023, and it was an amazing experience to coach such a high quality group of men in front of thousands at North Hobart Oval
“The result last year was disappointing however, so the group will take that as motivation into fueling our road to ‘redemption 24’ and I’m thrilled to be tasked with leading the State’s best again.
“It’s become a great rivalry between the two states, so I look forward to welcoming them on our turf this year.
AFL Queensland Competitions Manager Mitchell Simpson said Harding will have benefitted from the experience of last year’s match.
“We are so pleased the men’s program will have a coach of Leigh’s standing for their 2024 campaign,” he said.
“Leigh is well respected in the Queensland footy community and we have no doubt he will inspire the team further in 2024.”
Emma Zielke, the victorious Queensland women’s coach, will not return this year, as she turns her focus to her Under 18 Queensland girls coaching commitments.
Simpson thanked Zielke for her contribution.
“We thank Emma for her commitment to our Queensland women’s program in 2023 and wish her and the Under 18 girls team well in their 2024 season.
“Emma’s departure presents a fantastic opportunity for an aspiring coach to lead this team this season.
“We encourage coaches wanting to further their experience to apply.”
Applications for the Queensland Men’s assistant coaches, as well as all Queensland Women’s coaching roles are now open and will close March 4th.
The 2024 Rep Rivalry clash between Queensland and Tasmania will take place on Saturday June 22 on the Gold Coast.
