DEATH, taxes and Wigan Warriors blooding youngsters – the three certainties in life.
Dotted around Super League – and not just in the Warriors’ side – are a plethora of players that came through the Wigan Academy system.
In recent weeks, the likes of Taylor Kerr, Shea O’Connor, Kian McDermott and Josh Cartwright have all staked their claim for a first-team spot due to injuries and they have slotted in seamlessly.
And Wigan coach Matt Peet, who used to be in charge of Wigan’s Academy system, has explained the club’s success in that department.
“It’s about the players and their attitude because, without that, everything else is worthless,” Peet said.
“There is an outstanding amount of investment from our owner (Mike Danson), who believes in investing in the Academy and its infrastructure.
“We’re in a salary cap sport, so you’re limited in what you can pay players, but his vision for the club and the vision of the board has directed support in that way.
“It means we’ve got good facilities, good staff and good infrastructure. But the most important part is we’ve got some decent people in that set-up.
“We’ve got Academy coaches that understand the club. They’ve been here a long time and I like to think it’s a joined-up club where everyone gets along.
“It’s not perfect, there are loads of areas where we can do better, but I think we do it pretty well.”
Kerr and O’Connor have come in for particular praise for some uncompromising performances in the pack.
“This group of lads came early into the first team,” Peet said.
“They were amongst it last year but didn’t really play and that year’s experience has stood them in good stead.
“Taylor came in great condition to pre-season. He’s got all the psychological characteristics we want.
“He’s a tough kid and no-nonsense. He is self-critical and wants to get better. He’s talented and whichever position he plays for us, he is of great value.
“Loose-forward is his best position but he is making himself useful. You know he will compete.
“And I am enjoying watching Shea play. He is a pleasure to coach and he is very self-assured.
“He works hard but he is a quiet lad. Shea will whack some people and they will whack him and that’s what will make him a good frontrower for years to come.”