NZRL stands by youth rep sides

New Zealand Rugby League has come out in defence of its youth representative pathway, in the wake of news North Harbour Rugby will be scrapping its programme for junior players.

General manager David Gibson said Harbour’s decision to end its under-14 rep programme was in response to falling player numbers, and evidence that suggested schoolboys who missed out at a

Johnson’s release has freed up space in the salary cap to strengthen that area should the right player become available.

But recruitment is only one part of the depth equation and it’s the young age were more likely to walk away from the sport.

The move caused an uproar on social media, with many claiming it would turn kids ‘‘soft’’ and that the decision could doom the union at the higher levels.

While in no position to comment on North Harbour specifically, NZRL said it had no plans to scrap age grade football in the 13-man game.

‘‘Currently, the NZRL national

growth within the squad that has been encouraging for coach Stephen Kearney. He pointed to an improvement in training standards compared to last pre-season, driven by strong internal competition. junior representative programme begins at under-15 level and beneath that is our educational rugby league grades involving minis [6s and 9s] and mods [10s and 12s] league,’’ NZRL chief executive Greg Peters said.

‘‘It means young players can enjoy learning the fundamental skills of rugby league, while having fun with their mates through physical activity.’’

The Warriors have named a 26-man squad for today’s trial against Wests Tigers in Whangarei, with several fringe players also included in the reserve grade team.

And a look at the latter side