Quote: Greg Florimos Boots "Totally agree, some of these kids would be better signing at part time clubs and been developed slowly but SL clubs can not take that chance just in case they miss one.'"
Agreed. Look at James Bentley. Had offers from other clubs as ajunior. Chose us, been developed, still eligible for the academy this year, but has played every minute of every game he's been fit for and has scored 12 tries this year. He now has a choice of eight SL clubs all wanting to sign him.
Browsing around various clubs boards regarding junior development, there does seem to be a theme that some of the starlets at U16s, get offered ridiculous money (Warrington seem to be guilty of this) and then the said player never kicks on. The Leeds board gives a few examples of when they had players with huge potential on their books. Warrington came and offered stupid money (I've heard offering 30k for players graduating from scholarship level to join their U19s) and then the player never develops and is another a wasted talent. Who have Warrington developed in the last couple of years that has established themselves? Not having a go at Warrington as they at least fund a reserves, but my point is some junior players get offered silly money for a "bigger" club, then either fall in love with themselves or never kick on. Staying at a smaller club and being developed is sometimes the better option. A lot of the bigger clubs struggle to develop and nurture talent. Warrington, Hull, and even Saints don't seem to be producing first team players like before. I still think we're one of the best at developing talent and long may it continue whatever division we're in.