Quote: Alffi_7 "Any other players to be aware of from the Academy ranks Walter who will be pressing for first team action in 2023?? Looks like we could do with some centre cover for the first team next year with only Mata'utia, King? and Minikin available - and I'm not a fan of Minikin if I'm honest, I feel his place should be filled by academy promotions.
Full Back, Wings, Half Back, Prop, Hooker Back Row we seem ok depth wise, Centre seems a bit light.'"
There are quite a few excellent 'prospects' coming through but I wouldn't like to put too much pressure on them at such a young age...Centre wise Jack Darbyshire, son of Paul, has been very good these past couple of months and will hopefully get a first team game in the near future, also Jake Thewlis (Josh's brother); obviously Leon Hayes and Adam Holroyd stand out...we have a few young props that will hopefully develop over the next year or two and claim a place like Luke Thomas has done...likewise we have some excellent back rowers coming through and a winger or two!
On a personal note, I am excited to see my nephew playing at half back in the Academy (and Reserves) and hopefully he can come through (he will still be Academy next season).
This is my 13th season in the job and it has honestly been one of my most enjoyable; the coaches we have in place now are first class.