PORT Douglas coach Brad Cooper has been appointed the North Queensland representative coach for the coming season.

Cooper led the Crocs to 2016 AFL Cairns premiership and was named the Queensland Senior Coach of the Year. His appointment will not affect his role with the Crocs as they attempt to win back-to-back flags for the first time in the club’s history.

Cooper was assistant coach to Rick Hanlon for representative side last year and his appointment is testament to his standing as a coach not only in Cairns, but across the state.

“Brad has had experience with the program over the last couple of years, so he comes in knowing how the program operates,” North Queensland administrator John Durkin said.

“This year’s focus is to ensure the team is prepared for whatever South Queensland might throw at us and that we are not overawed by the occasion.

“Brad’s experience will be invaluable in this respect, as he is forthright, demanding and understands what this task will take.”

Cooper will oversee the North Queensland team comprising players from Cairns, Townsville, Mt Isa and Capricornia Leagues.

The North Queensland vs. South Queensland series has rapidly grown to become one of the state’s most popular representative programs. Port Douglas dominated selection last year with seven players named in the squad.

The game will again be played as the curtain raiser to the AFL fixture between Western Bulldogs and Gold Coast Suns.

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