31/08/2026
Season Wrap-Up - 2026 FQPL & U23 - Building the Foundation
2026 was never about winning a competition or even matches for the Dolphins senior squad, it was about building something for the future.
Entering FQPL with a brand new squad, largely made up of players experiencing high level senior football for the first time, the focus was on creating a genuine pathway for the next generation of Dolphins juniors and laying the foundations for future success.
The results didn’t always go our way, but the growth throughout the season was clear.
Our U23s developed a strong core group that continued to turn up, build connections and grow more competitive each week, while the FQPL squad showed throughout the season that they can compete with some of the best sides in the competition.
At times, we pushed top teams and produced periods of football that demonstrated just how much potential this group has.
The biggest challenge wasn’t necessarily ability, it was experience. Learning how to manage games, momentum, and pressure is something that can only truly be developed through playing.
And that’s what 2026 has given this group - experience.
A huge thank you to our players, coaches, managers, captains, parents, sponsors and volunteers for embracing the vision and sticking together through the challenges. We also thank the clubs across the competition for welcoming Dolphins into FQPL and showing our young group respect throughout the season.
This was just the first step. The players coming through Dolphins in the years ahead will hopefully benefit from the foundation this group has helped create.
For now, we can be proud of the progress and excited about what comes next 🐬
📸 Throwback to our first match of the season, our Queensland Cup match vs Magpies
Finally, a huge congratulations to Mackay Rangers Football Club for winning the FQPL Premiership in 2026. A deserved title for the coaching staff and players that have been the benchmark all season 👏
