Players who have just missed out on Ospreys selection at U16’s during the summer period are being given a second bite of the cherry by taking part in a programme where they can develop their skills, knowledge and physical attributes.
The programme started on Monday 2nd July and will run for a four week period until the final activity day at Margam Park on Wednesday 1st August where the players will have an opportunity to experience Judo, Orienteering, Mountain Biking, Nordic Walking, Wind Surfing, Canoeing and Archery.
During this period there will be training at Gnoll Park on a Monday which focuses on endurance, skill development and individual nit skills. At Aberavon Beach on a Wednesday, speed and beach rugby is the focus. Finally at Ystradgynlais on a Saturday morning, body management, lifting technique, nutrition and circuit training are the elements involved.
These players will then make up the District Schools squads at U15 and the Afan Nedd District squad at U16’s for the coming season.
“The programme also allows age grade coaches within the region an opportunity to identify talented players who may have been initially missed or who have developed at a later stage,” said WRU Development Officer Andrew Thomas. “These players then have an opportunity of representing the region at U16, U18 and or U20 Level.”
This system is also replicated in Bridgend and Swansea District at U16’s and U19’s level which ensures that there is always a talent identification pathway in place within the region.
“Thomas added: “This development system ensures that the door is always left open for young emerging players within the Ospreys region.”
