Bourke's bid to promote Indigenous female coaches

Ian Bourke has only been given the task of coaching the women's Indigenous All Stars team in the last month but has already boldly declared he's hoping it's a short stay.

Not because Bourke, who has spent decades in coaching across the Central Coast, Hunter and Western regions, wants the experience to be shortlived.

But rather he's more interested in pushing for a female coach to take over in 12 months' time, along with helping to strengthen the Indigenous representation in the NRL Telstra Women's Premiership. 

"Dean Widders and I have spoken consistently around how this space needs to be coached by a female in the future and that's what we're aiming for," Bourke told NRL.com.

"There are some good, young Indigenous coaches who have played at a high level and it's our vision to push them towards the elite.

"That's certainly my vision and I'm more than happy to step aside in 12 months' time and be a mentor for them."

Bourke will work with up-and-coming assistant coach Jess Skinner during the Indigenous All Stars campaign ahead of the clash on February 20.

He also recently had retired forward Bec Young attend a training session for NSW-based players, while former Jillaroo Bo Dela Cruz is making waves in Queensland.

"It's great to have someone like Jess on board and hopefully mentor her along the way," Bourke said.

"I see big futures for all of them and that's where we want to head with it.

"The staff from last year need to be acknowledged for the great professionalism they provided the players.

"We just want to make sure we're doing the same and am paying our due diligence to this space."

The third season of the NRLW saw 12 players of Indigenous heritage play in the competition with the likes of Shaylee Bent and Quincy Dodd kicking on after making their All Stars debut in 2019.

"We want more Indigenous quantity at that top level," Bourke said.

"There are a lot of talented players out there and we want them to have a pathway to showcase their ability and get a contract in the NRLW.

"There will be a lot of opportunities this season for players to have a big year."

The Indigenous side won the corresponding match over the Maori outfit 10-4 last season and will be looking to replicate that result at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

"Winning is the ultimate prize but not the main focus for the week," Bourke said.

"It's a huge week for a lot of these girls to come together and learn about their culture."

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