Rugby Veteran Quade Cooper Makes Bold Switch To Flag Football

Quade Cooper, the seasoned playmaker, is stepping away from rugby and embarking on a bold new experience, focusing on representing Australia in flag football at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

With his contract with Japan’s Kintetsu Liners coming to an end mid-year, the 37-year-old is transitioning to the fast-paced, non-contact version of American football as it makes its Olympic debut.

Cooper reflected on his new chapter and how special it was to be part of something that could change sports. He further expressed his excitement for being one of the pioneers in the new era of flag football.

Despite having faced Olympic disappointment in the past due to a citizenship crisis, Cooper is looking forward to starting a new journey, boosting his 70 Test caps and Super Rugby title to excel in the quarterback position.

American Football Australia CEO Wade Kelly has praised Cooper as a player with exceptional talent and described his pursuit of flag football gold in LA28 as exciting. Cooper already has potential teammates in place, including NRL stars Reece Walsh and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, who he believes could transition smoothly to flag football due to their versatility.

Cooper expounded on their potential, emphasizing that their ability to pace faster makes them the perfect players for a game that needs both offensive and defensive capabilities. He

He also singled out Joseph Suaalii, the former rugby union star, who possesses qualities that will be of value. With preparation to join the Australian squad touring the United States in June, Cooper represents a personal ambition to motivate a new generation of players to dream differently.