LBR Black Stallions — Кассета

Summary Host Ant interviews Luke Berger, founder and coach of the LBR Black Stallions, about his long rugby league career, his work managing racehorse ownership groups, and the team he is assembling for the Nines Premier League. Berger explains the squad’s mix of speed, toughness and experience, the work behind entering a team, and how creating access and strong relationships can build lasting support. Key Topics Berger played first grade from age 17 to 39, coached across age groups, and finally won a grand final after eight losses. After 17 years as a racehorse trainer, Berger shifted to managing ownership groups, acting as a link between owners and trainers. The LBR Black Stallions bring together First Nations players from different regions, giving them a chance to play together beyond their usual club or community knockout teams. The squad combines speed, physicality, proven leaders and younger talent, with Lindon McGrady named captain and Brenton Cochrane identified as a key competitor. Berger expects the team to play an instinctive, fast style rather than rely on elaborate structure, with the coaches leading the on-field plan. The team is committed to competing seriously and hopes to progress to the Gold Coast; players are expected to come together on the Friday before the tournament. Berger describes the behind-the-scenes work of recruitment, funding, accommodation, food and preparation, and names Man Up Skin, A1 Metal Roofing and Marathon Tires among supporters. In racing, Berger creates value by giving owners behind-the-scenes access; he applies the same relationship-first approach to sponsors and the team community. Berger says coaches carry more game-day nerves than players, while his ownership experience has taught him to keep a long-term perspective.