Five Super League clubs have been rated as ‘outstanding’ by the Rugby Football League in relation to their junior development programmes and Academy systems.
The annual results assist parents and players as they commit to the academy structure for their development as a player. 2016 builds on the Academy accreditation system that has taken place in each of the last five years. It is a detailed assessment of the Academies’ performance and structure.
Academies have been awarded licences to run for four years through to 2020 and are measured against that and their current practice.
Jon Roberts, who is the RFL Director of Performance and Development, said: “We are pleased to announce the results of the 2016 Academy Accreditation process. It is a recognition of the hard work and dedication of the academy teams.
“The standards of players emerging from club academies increases year on year. Player quality is having a positive impact on Super League and England. The Academy Accreditation process is thorough, and obtaining the highest level of accreditation requires a huge amount of work right across the club. We work closely with all club academies to help them as they address issues and make improvements throughout the year.
“This information is vital for the clubs themselves, and especially for players and their parents. This process gives them confidence as they will be committing to the academy for their development as a player.”
5 clubs – LEEDS RHINOS; ST HELENS; WARRINGTON WOLVES; WIDNES VIKINGS; WIGAN WARRIORS – have been rated as ‘outstanding’ in recognition of the excellence of their junior development programmes from age 12 upwards.
5 clubs – BRADFORD BULLS; CASTLEFORD TIGERS; HUDDERSFIELD GIANTS; LONDON BRONCOS; NEWCASTLE THUNDER have been rated as ‘good’ after making significant improvements over the last 12 months.
2 clubs – SALFORD RED DEVILS; WAKEFIELD TRINITY WILDCATS have been rated as ‘needs improvement’ and are addressing areas of weakness to build on existing strengths.
2 clubs – CATALANS DRAGONS and CITY OF HULL have yet to be assessed in 2016 and results will be updated shortly.
Following the assessment process the academy in Cumbria will be restructured, and a strategy developed with all local partners to improve the player pipeline and help talented players to reach their potential.