We have had a total of 11 Development Academy/REDS Programme players represent their countries over the past few weeks.
Since 2021, the Club have invested into a strong pathway programme through the REDS, Development Academy and Reserves Programmes.
The addition of our recently-awarded Elite Development Academy will only strengthen our chances of producing local talent who have the potential of making the step-up to first-grade rugby.
However, we do already have strong foundations – and the inclusion of eleven players in the most recent round of international fixtures is a testament to just that.
In early-June, the England Community Lions U19’s lifted the European Championship after a battling performance against the favourites, France.
Four players from that team have come through our youth programmes: George Jamieson, Daniel Knott, Josh Blinkhorn and Josh Hopkins, with Reece Semthurst also representing Scotland in the same tournament.
More recently, six players have flew to take on France in a number of test matches. One of them, Joe Griffith’s was named Player of the Tournament, last night.
Danny Barton, who has coached three of the players selected with the Development Academy, has said: “The lads are a credit to the Foundation and the Club for all their hard work over the last three years.
“It is a fantastic opportunity to represent their country, and it will give them valuable experience that will help them in all aspects of their development.
“We look forward to continuing our work with them to achieve their potential.”
Head of Youth, Mark Moran has added: “We are immensely proud of the 11 players who have been selected for international representative rugby league.
“This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and it has been a privilege seeing them progress through the club’s development pathway.
“Their selection not only highlights the talent within our ranks but also displays the significant contributions of the players’ community clubs.”
On his experience with the U19’s, Dan Knott has said: “The trip was incredibly beneficial, allowing us to test our skills against some of the best players in Europe.
“It provided valuable experience playing with a high-level team in tough conditions, and we made some great memories along the way.”
International representatives:
U19 England
George Jamieson
Daniel Knott
Josh Blinkhorn
Josh Hopkins
U17 England
Ellis Clarke
Harry Townsend
Seth Woodend
Matthew Eden
Joe Griffiths
Lewis Johnson
U19 Scotland
Reece Smethurst
