Regional Academies draft stars of the future

Between them the Blues, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets Academies contain the top young talent in the country.

“The players have been selected very carefully and we are seeking to develop our young elite performers both mentally and physically,” explained WRU High Performance Manager Mostyn Richards. “These 74 players are the first, historic draft into our new Academy system. They will receive expert advice and tuition and will get the chance to develop their skills in a way no player before them has ever enjoyed in Wales.

“The Academies will not be playing matches, but the coaches will be monitoring very closely the performances of the players at whatever level they play. There are no closed doors in any of the four Academies and players will be added whenever the managers feel the talent is there to be nurtured.

“Every one of these 75 highly talented individuals is on our radar to one day potentially play for Wales. It is up to them to take advantage of what is on offer to them, and up to the Academies to bring out the best in them.”

The majority of the 75 have already won caps at U16, U18, U19 or U21 levels and many of last season’s Grand Slam winning Wales U21 side are included. The younger players will be combining school and college studies with their work at the Academies, while everyone will be given advice on future career and education options.

“These Academies are all about developing the full potential of every individual, not merely enhancing their rugby playing ability. Personal development away from the rugby field will play as important a part as their skills development,” added Lewis.