Sport
8 July, 2026
State triumph for Irukandjis
INNISFAIL State College’s Irukandjis Rugby League Academy team capped off a gruelling three-day campaign in Rockhampton with a thrilling 20-16 victory over Gladstone State High School.
Innisfail secured the State Schools Cup Division One Trophy at the Rugby League Queensland State Schools Cup and delivered a proud moment for the college and the community.
The tournament at Rugby Park brought together 16 of Queensland’s strongest teams from 11 state schools, but the Irukandjis proved they belonged among the best from the opening whistle.
Their first match saw them push Mackay State High School’s Aaron Payne Cup outfit to the limit, going down 10-4 despite a sharp try from Cohen Assan. The performance showed grit, especially after a 12-hour bus trip the day before.
Innisfail rebounded strongly in game two, overpowering Yeppoon State High School to qualify for division one. Front rower Logan Howard dominated the middle, laying the platform for a convincing win.
Day two opened with a tough clash against powerhouse Kirwan State High School. Despite a strong start, injuries from the previous day took their toll. Halfback Ashton Stepanoff impressed with a brilliant try set up by Cohen Daniel, while lock Tristan Silvia worked tirelessly throughout the match.
The Irukandjis hit back in their second game of the day, defeating Lockyer District State High School 12-4. Silvia crossed for two tries, co-captain Leo Mauloni produced a huge defensive effort and fullback Matt threatened the opposition at every turn. The win booked Innisfail’s place in the division one trophy final.
On day three in the trophy final, Innisfail burst out to a 14-4 lead against Gladstone State High School with creative tries to Frank Sakail, Cohen Assan and Cohen Daniel.
Gladstone rallied to close the gap to 16-14, but with two minutes left, slick ball movement from Silvia and Daniel sent Terrence Laber flying down the sideline to score the match winner. Player awards
MVP: Tristan Silvia
AdvertisementBest Back: Matt (surname withheld)
Best Forward: Logan Howard
Most Consistent: Ashton Stepanoff.
Coach Callum Leslie said the team’s unity was key to their success.
“I am so proud of the boys for the way they gelled as a team and brought home silverware. They represented their town, friends and families with pride,” he said.
Assistant coach Ben Dean praised their commitment.
“Two morning trainings a week, some boys leaving Silkwood at 6am, these boys have stepped up. It is fantastic to see ISC’s Rugby League Academy is now on the map,” he said.
Co-captain Julian Santarossa said the experience had fuelled next year’s ambitions. “This week has made me so keen to come back down next year and go again,” he said.
Player Mason (surname withheld) summed up the trip simply: “This has been the best trip I’ve been a part of in my whole time at school.”