Leeds Rugby Foundation are delighted to announce that Development Officer Martyn Riley has benefited from Leeds City College’s player pathway having been selected for the Yorkshire Colleges squad.
Next week will see Martyn and the Yorkshire side travel up to Nottingham University to take part in the regional finals which will see them face off against other counties from the UK.
Martyn who is still studying at Leeds City College whilst working his apprenticeship for Leeds Rugby Foundation admits he would not have been selected without the help of Leeds City College and a certain ‘senior’.
He said: “I must thank Leeds City College. Without them and in particular Leeds City College Rugby League Head Coach Keith Senior I wouldn’t have been selected. Keith’s influence on the side and my game has really help me develop as a player and I am grateful to the player pathway that Leeds City College gives youngsters like me.”
There is a clear rugby pathway that, with the unique use of the Leeds Rhinos' facilities, allows Leeds City College Academy players the chance to develop and progress to the next level. The Academy use the Rhinos' gym, 3G pitch and combat room which aids their development tenfold and also recive knowledge from Rhinos legend Senior.
Head Coach Keith Senior commented: “Martyn has done well, but he still knows he has a long way to go. Leeds Rugby Foundation have a fantastic partnership with Leeds City College which has recently seen youngsters Ben Frankland and Luke Teasdale being offered professional contracts at Leeds Rhinos following progression through Leeds City College. This player pathway Leeds City College offers which allows youngsters to play rugby alongside their studies, has benefited Martyn and we are hopeful it will do the same for many more."