Leeds Rhinos and Leeds Rhinos Foundation are set to launch the new Rhinos Talent Pathway ‘On the Road’ programme with a session at Wetherby Rugby Union Club on Thursday 28th May, running from 10am to 12pm.
This programme is designed to introduce rugby league to athletes who currently play rugby union, offering them a chance to experience the game in a supportive environment.
The session is not about pulling players away from their current sport, but about broadening their skills and knowledge and giving young athletes the opportunity to explore different aspects of the game.
The initiative is supported by the Rugby Football League’s talent transfer rules, which provide a clear and structured framework for clubs to identify and develop athletes from outside the traditional rugby league pathway. These rules enable the club to work with players from rugby union and other sports in a compliantly way.
This opens up exciting opportunities, particularly in areas where rugby union has a strong presence, to engage players who may not have previously considered rugby league but have the potential to succeed.
The Leeds Rhinos have already seen positive stories, with several players from union backgrounds adapting well to the demands and rules of rugby league.
The ‘On the Road’ programme aims to build on this success, identifying talent earlier and supporting athletes through a more deliberate development pathway and strengthening the depth and diversity of our talent pool.
Head of Youth Development for Leeds Rhinos, Darren Higgins said: “This initiative is a really exciting one for the club as we work together with the Leeds Rhinos Foundation to unearth future talent with the potential to progress in our game.”
Head of Pathways and Talent ID, Mark Butterill added: “We already have a number of young talented players within our system who have extensively played rugby union, and these are great examples of the talent that exists outside of the traditional rugby league talent pool.
“This session is a great opportunity to identify and support athletes from different backgrounds, giving them a clear pathway into the game.”
*This session is aimed at boys in Years 7 to 9.