The North vs. South Player Development Series has continued to expand this year, delivering significant benefits to grassroots rugby league across Leeds.
These benefits include:
- Over 250 young players accessing development and pathway opportunities.
- 20 coaches from the community game coaching on the programme, accessing CPD and receiving support and mentoring from Leeds Rhinos Foundation staff which will in-turn benefit their community club environments and help with player development and retention.
One of the strongest indicators of the programme’s impact is seen in the rise of Under-18 teams in Leeds. In 2023, only three teams entered the Yorkshire Junior League, but by 2024, this number had increased to eight. This growth aligns with the programme’s goal of retaining players who face setbacks, such as missing out on scholarships, by giving them reasons to stay involved in the game.
Additionally, several players have progressed from the programme to scholarships, academies, and the England Community Lions.
The programme’s growing popularity is particularly evident at the Under-14 level, where the number of squads has doubled with more than 100 players. The structure provides players with two months in the North vs. South series, followed by a custom programme within the Rhinos Talent Pathway.
This opportunity ensures players remain engaged each year and offers a real alternative pathway, with some players returning annually and even progressing to the Leeds Rhinos Development Academy College programme.
The series has fostered a sense of unity within the rugby league community in Leeds, bringing together key stakeholders such as Leeds Rhinos, Leeds Rhinos Foundation, Hunslet RL, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds Rhinos Player Association, match officials, and local community clubs. This collaboration strengthens the overall rugby league community, benefitting both players and coaches.
Interest in coaching on the programme has also grown, with over 30 coaches applying for roles this year. While running a high-quality programme with volunteer coaches can be challenging, the long-term benefits outweigh the obstacles, forming a key part of the city’s broader coach development strategy.
Looking ahead, the programme aims to continue offering high-quality experiences for Under-14 to Under-18 players, helping retain talent while creating pathways to scholarships, academies, and further opportunities such as the Leeds Rhinos College Development Academy and the England Community Lions.
The programme also supports the ongoing development of local coaches, ensuring the future growth of rugby league in the city.
Watch some of the highlights below!