Rugby Royalty Passing on Valuable Lessons at Junior State Cup
Former Brisbane Broncos captain Alex Glenn knows a thing or two about high-performance sport, but these days his greatest satisfaction comes from helping the next generation develop both on and off the field through touch football.
Now coaching at Queensland Touch Football’s Junior State Cup, Glenn is focused on far more than wins and losses. For the former professional rugby player, the event provides an opportunity to teach young athletes important life lessons that extend well beyond the game itself.
“The biggest lesson that I try to teach our players is how to play the sport well, but most importantly, good morals, good ethics, core values and what sportsmanship is all about,” Glenn said.
“I think sport teaches them a lot about life, but the best thing is the values in that and how to be a good teammate.”
As one of Queensland’s premier junior touch football events, Junior State Cup brings together the state’s best young players, creating an environment where athletes can develop their skills, build friendships and learn the qualities that will serve them throughout their lives.
For Glenn, watching young players embrace those opportunities is one of the most rewarding aspects of coaching.
“I think my proudest moment is just seeing them have fun in the game that I love,” he said.
“I’ve been lucky to have a career playing sport, but touch has always been one of my favourite sports. Seeing these two playing touch at a representative level and thriving in it is very special for me.”
Glenn’s passion for touch football is clear. Despite enjoying a decorated rugby career, he remains a strong advocate for the sport and its unique ability to develop athletes through speed, skill and teamwork.
“Touch, I believe, is one of the best sports in the world,” he said.
“It’s so fast and so skilful, and it’s an art form. I’ve been saying this for a long time — it needs to be in the Olympics hopefully one day.
“When you see the elite players go up against each other, it’s absolutely amazing to watch. It’s art from out there.”
His involvement at Junior State Cup highlights the growing appeal of touch football among elite athletes and coaches, many of whom recognise the sport’s value in developing decision-making, agility, communication and game awareness.
For Queensland Touch Football, coaches like Glenn bring invaluable experience to the junior pathway, helping young players not only pursue excellence in sport but also embrace the values of respect, teamwork and sportsmanship.
As thousands of players continue to take part in Junior State Cup each year, Glenn’s message remains simple: enjoy the game, support your teammates and make the most of every opportunity touch football provides.
