Zeke Field, coach of the Caboolture Snakes Junior Rugby League Club’s under-17 boys team, has been named Queensland Rugby League’s (QRL) 2023 Community Coach of the Year. This award recognises Field’s dedication to guiding young athletes both on and off the field.
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Coaching beyond the sport
In an interview, Field stresses the importance of supporting young athletes at a critical time in their lives. “Having that connection with the club is really important, especially at the age of 16, 17, when there’s a lot of distractions out there,” says Field.
He aims to provide an inclusive environment: “They can come here and know that they’re welcome. There’s a place for them, and we’ll embrace them, whoever or whatever they are.”
Field makes it a priority to instil positive values in his players. “He expects them to be decent people and decent young men, and the football ability is kind of secondary to that,” they explain. By holding the team to high standards, Field helps them develop discipline and respect.
Zeke Field, a passionate coach
For Field, coaching is a labour of love. “I just love it. I love football, I live and breathe it,” he says. He is motivated by the coaches who supported him as a young player. “I had plenty of great coaches that gave so much time to me, put plenty of effort into me. And I think it sort of helped shape me as a man I am today. So I just want to give back.”
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For Field, the award is confirmation that he is on the right track. “It just gave me that affirmation that you’re on the right path, you’re doing the right thing,” he reflects.
Through his passion and dedication, Field makes a real difference in the lives of young athletes.
Published 20 November 2023
Featured Image Photo Credit: QRL
