Governing body for football and futsal in Queensland
The CQU Lab
Welcome to the CQU Lab
Football Queensland and CQUniversity have teamed up to bring cutting-edge sports science, education, and research straight to Queensland’s football community.
The CQU Lab is your go-to destination for expert insights, resources and opportunities. From injury prevention and recovery tips to performance optimisation, coaching education and pathways into sport science and rehabilitation. Through this innovative partnership, CQUniversity’s team of sports science, physiotherapy, chiropractic, and podiatry experts will share their knowledge to help players, coaches, and parents better understand the science behind performance and wellbeing.
Whether you’re looking to take your game to the next level, keeping your team fit and firing, or you want to learn more about the connection between football and education, The CQU Lab is here to support your journey on and off the pitch.
Latest Research
CQU Lab | Behind the Whistle: From Local Fields to the Biggest Stage
Dr Nathan Elsworthy breaks down the demands of refereeing, examining the split-second decisions, physical load and match management skills required to officiate at every level of the game.
Ready to volunteer as a coach this season? Here are some handy tips
By CQUniversity Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Dr Cassy Dittman and colleagues from The University of Queensland With the football season about to swing into action, parents, grandparents and carers alike
CQU Lab | Getting Rest Right: Sleep Habits to Recover and Perform
Sleep expert Dr Michele Lastella explores how strong sleep habits fuel athletic performance, recovery, mood and focus - sharing practical routines, nutrition tips, screen habits and napping strategies to help
CQU Lab | How the right football boots can boost performance, prevent injury
Podiatry experts Mr Jarrod McGuinness and Dr Benjamin Peterson unpack how properly fitted football boots can boost performance, reduce injury risk, support growing feet, and keep players comfortable and confident
CQU Lab | What Parents Can Learn from the Socceroos’ Mental Game
Sport psychologist Dr Alberto Filgueiras highlights how the Socceroos’ mindset - from resilience and emotional control to trust and tactical awareness - offers practical lessons for parents supporting young athletes'
Launched in 2025, the partnership between Football Queensland and CQUniversity brings together two leaders in sport and education to strengthen the connection between the classroom and the pitch.
Through The CQU Lab, the footballing community will be provided with expert insights into areas such as sports science, physiotherapy, chiropractic and podiatry, applying their studies directly within FQ Academy programs, state teams and major carnivals.
This innovative collaboration not only supports player performance and wellbeing but also provides meaningful pathways for students pursuing careers in sport and rehabilitation, building Queensland’s next generation of professionals both on and off the field.
CQUniversity Australia is a trading name of Central Queensland University ABN: 39 181 103 288 RTO Code: 40939 CRICOS: 00219C TEQSA: PRV12073
Some of Queensland`s brightest young footballers are set to take centre stage this weekend as teams battle for Championship glory across Luxury Paints Stadium, AJ Kelly Park, Carmichael Park and Moreton Bay Sports Complex.
With silverware on the line and a season`s worth of hard work culminating in one final challenge, expect plenty of quality football as the state`s premier youth talent goes head-to-head in pursuit of Grand Final success!
The #KappaQueenslandCup U18 finalists are locked in 🔥
Four thrilling semifinals highlighted the quality and depth of talent emerging through the #FQAcademy League pathway, with the U18 finalists now confirmed ahead of what`s set to be a blockbuster Finals Day at Spencer Park this August.
🎟️ Be there when the next generation takes centre stage at Spencer Park on Saturday, 22 August, secure your tickets now via the FQ website
Football Queensland is excited to announce a new multi-year partnership with Green Room Futures as our Official US College & Tour Partner, creating even more opportunities for Queensland`s aspiring footballers.
The partnership will continue to provide access to US college pathways while introducing an annual USA tour for FQ Academy players, delivering international competition, college exposure and unforgettable development experiences.
A new chapter in the FQ Academy pathway starts now. Visit our website to read more.
The 2026 @stepout.ai #FQAcademy State Championships showcased the very best of Queensland`s next generation, with players, coaches and teams from across the state coming together for six unforgettable days of football in Moreton Bay.
A huge thank you to everyone who played their part in making the biggest-ever edition of the tournament such a success.
Relive some of the best moments from the week in photos 📸
The @stepout.ai #FQAcademy State Championships roll on 🤩⚽️
With three huge days of action complete across South Pine Sports Complex and Moreton Bay Sports Complex, teams are now firmly focused on play-offs and Grand Finals!
📲 Stay up to date with all the latest results, fixtures and stats coverage via the FQ website