The Roar's Super Rugby expert tips and predictions, Round 9: Big test for Les, Blues backed to best Brumbies
Fijian Drua will try to end the 7-0 streak of the table-topping Hurricanes to kick off a spicy weekend of action that has split…
It is often seen that rugby lacks the development programs and talent identification of other codes, but a recent article on the Rugby Heaven website seems to indicate that it is better developed than many think, just not perhaps publicised as much.
To take some quotes from National Development manager Ben Whittaker, (who used to be the Queenslad Development Manager): “One of the key things we’ve done is put in place a couple of programs in our national and junior Gold Squad program that now span the whole country to identify and then develop emerging talent.
“In the last 18 months we’ve got about 750 kids involved in the program at various levels. They range from 14 to 18 years of age.
“We’ve got 40 national talent scouts and we have development staff that oversee everything and are out there building the game and participation.”
Since its inception in 2004, the Gold Squad program has helped to shape 14 Wallabies, including O’Connor, Cooper, Kurtley Beale, Will Genia and David Pocock.
National development manager Whitaker said the future looked just as bright, with more than 750 junior footballers between 14 and 18 taking part in a range of daily, weekly and programs to prepare them for Super Rugby and international duty.
What do you think? Are the ARU doing the right thing or in your experience is this still lacking in talent spotting?
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.
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