Bailey Cavanough has been around footy for as long as he can remember—whether it was early mornings at Nanango Stags or running water for A Grade as a kid. Now, he’s carving his own path, recently earning selection for Queensland Country A Grade and setting his sights on his Hostplus Cup debut. From his pre-game rituals to his love of golf and a solid steak dinner, get to know the determined forward who’s all about resilience, hard work, and playing for the love of the game.
On The Field
What’s your first memory playing rugby league? Early Saturday mornings back at my junior club and being a ball boy for A Grade when I was six years old.
Who introduced you to the game? My dad and uncles—I grew up watching and being around footy.
Career Highlight? Playing for Queensland Country A Grade in 2024.
Pre-Game Ritual/Superstition? Left sock, right sock. Left boot, right boot. Tie left boot, tie right boot. Three taps on the ground.
Most Memorable Game? Queensland Country A Grade.
What’s your personal goal for this season? Debut for Qcup and play as much Cup as I can.
What’s the biggest lesson footy has taught you? To be resilient—don’t give up, and don’t listen to outside noise.
What advice would you give to young players starting out in footy? Remember why you play—enjoy it, and play with your mates.
Off The Field
If You Weren’t a Footballer, What Would You Be? A police officer.
Childhood Hero? Dad.
Game Day Song? “Thunderstruck” – AC/DC.
Hobbies? Golf, the beach.
Favourite Post-Game Meal? Macca’s.
Hidden Talent? Don’t really have one.
Favourite Sports Team (Outside Rugby League)?Golf, cricket.
Best Advice You’ve Ever Received? “Do something because you enjoy it, not because you have to do it.”
Favourite Holiday Destination? Sunshine Coast.
Dream Team You’d Love to Play For? Queensland Maroons (during their 8-in-a-row era).
Dream Player You’d Love to Play With? Darren Lockyer.
#CaprasTop3
Game Day Snacks: Muesli bar, Banana
Movies of All Time: Remember the Titans, American Sniper, Lethal Weapon
Meals: Steak, mash, veggies, Chicken carbonara, Curried sausages
Sporting Idols: Tom Brady, Kobe Bryant
Bucket List Destinations: Europe, Vanuatu
Things You Can’t Live Without: Family, Golf clubs ,Phone
#TeamTalk
Who is the team pest? Riley Reid
Who is always late to training? Zev John
Who takes the longest to get ready? Jaylen Grey
Who would you not want to be stuck on a desert island with? Riley Reid
Who’s the best dressed on the team? Jaylen Grey
Who’s the worst dressed on the team? Jack Biles
Who’s the biggest joker on the team? Riley Reid
