Words: Staff Writer
Image: Michael Flynn

Northern Fury’s 17-year-old striker, Braedyn Crowley, leaves Townsville tomorrow  to take up a Foxtel National Youth League contract with Newcastle Jets.

Crowley was Fury’s leading goal scorer in the PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland season that finished last month, scoring 17 goals in 24 games and accounting for almost half of Fury’s season tally.

Fury Director of Coaching and senior men’s coach, Ian Ferguson, said it was just reward for Crowley’s endeavours this season.

“I am delighted for the kid,” said Ferguson.

“This is a good thing for young Braedyn but also for football in North Queensland because it shows young players what can happen when given the opportunity and if you’re prepared to work hard.”

Crowley came to the attention of the Jets’ coaching staff during the recent Wingate Properties Townsville Football Cup.

“Braedyn was noticed by (Newcastle coach) Phil Stubbins in the first two games and invited Braedyn to train and play with Newcastle Jets in their final match of the tournament.”

Crowley spent a week in Newcastle on trial following the invitational tournament and was offered the contract last week. 

“Well done to Braedyn for taking this opportunity and making the most of it,” Ferguson said.

“He would not have been noticed without the Wingate Properties Townsville Football Cup tournament, and this should show other young players that there are pathways available.”

Football Queensland recently undertook football community forums in the North Queensland centres of Townsville and Cairns that will provide input to Football Federation Australia’s National Football Plan, as announced by FFA CEO David Gallop earlier this week.