Enrolment for next season’s Development Academy will be open on August 23rd for any aspirational young rugby league players.
This will take place at Eccles Sixth Form College, where students will have to enrol onto their chosen course and then head to the main sports hall for a discussion with members of our Foundation staff.
You do not have to be directly studying at Eccles to join our rugby programme; students who are about to enrol at various other Salford City College’s – like Pendleton and Worsley – can still turn up on Friday to have a discussion, after they enrol onto their chosen course.
The Development Academy will continue to play a crucial role in our talent development strategy, acting as a feeder system to the new Elite Academy.
Players within the Development Academy will have the opportunity to move up, further their development, and eventually compete at the Super League level.
With news a few months ago that the Club has been granted an Elite Academy License, players who have progressed through the Development Academy will have the opportunity to compete amongst our newly-formed Elite Academy.
This will provide a structured and competitive environment where local players can hone their skills, gain valuable experience, and work towards the ultimate goal of representing Salford Red Devils at the highest level.
This new initiative represents a major investment in the future of rugby league in Salford and the surrounding areas, offering young, aspiring athletes a direct pathway to the professional ranks of the sport.
However, integral to the success of the Elite Academy is the existing Salford Red Devils Development Academy, which has already been a proven breeding ground for emerging talent.
They have enjoyed tremendous success over recent years, with several players advancing to our reserves team.
One of the shining examples of this progression is Nathan Connell, who has risen through the Development Academy to earn a spot in the first-team squad and secure a Super League contract.
Nathan’s journey is a testament to the effectiveness of the Development Academy as a viable route to professional rugby league.
Our new Elite Academy not only underscores our commitment to nurturing local talent but also ensures that young players from Salford and the surrounding areas have access to the best training and support as they pursue their rugby league dreams.
However, any recreational players who are just wanting to enjoy their rugby can still get involved throughout 2025 in the Development Academy.
On aspirational players signing up for the Development Academy, Head of Youth, Mark Moran has said: “The Rugby League Development Academy at Salford College is a vital stepping stone for young athletes navigating the late-maturing nature of rugby league.
“In a sport where talent can emerge at different stages, the Development Academy offers a unique opportunity for players, from recreational participants to those aspiring to play at the highest level, while securing a strong academic foundation.
“By embracing those who develop later or come to the game later in life, the academy ensures that more players are given the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
If there are any questions regarding the Development Academy, please contact Sam or Danny on sam.bardsley@salfordcc.ac.uk or danny.barton@salfordcc.ac.uk.
