Sale Sharks Academy are pleased to launch our Developing Player Programme (DPP) for the Under 14-16 age grades in the 2019-20 rugby season.
The DPP is designed ‘to provide a first opportunity to identify those players with the greatest potential to enter the pathway towards the professional game’ and works in conjunction with England Rugby and Cheshire and Lancashire Counties. The programme is the first stage on the player pathway and is planned to interact with and complement the existing school, club and county playing programmes and provide further development without the conflict of competition.
The deadline for nominations is Friday 20th September.
NOMINATING PLAYERS FOR SALE SHARKS DPP – WHO SHOULD I NOMINATE?
There are numerous factors to consider when nominating a player of potential to the SALE SHARKS DEVELOPING PLAYER PROGRAMME. The below provides a brief guide to some of the key attributes and areas of identification that should be considered before nominating a player. Players should be able to demonstrate the skills set regardless of position and be capable of playing the future game.
SPORTING TALENT
Nominated players do not need to be experienced rugby players. We welcome nominations from players who are new to the game but may have demonstrated talent within other sports and are beginning to transfer their skills set to rugby union and show future potential. The nomination of some players, who are not necessarily standing outs in their age group currently, but who have the potential to surpass their peers with appropriate development is encouraged.
PLAYERS WHO SHOW KEY ATTRIBUTES IN 2 OUT OF THE 4 AREAS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED FOR NOMINATION:
Creative Attackers – Players who regularly demonstrate the ability to combine technical skill and tactical decision making to create attacking opportunities during gameplay. These players show the co-ordination to run, kick, pass effectively whilst at speed. Players can also demonstrate the ability to make decisions in open space and demonstrate the attacking principles of play around go forward and support.
Relentless Athletes – The potential for physical capacity of a fast, robust player to repeatedly perform high-intensity efforts and recover quickly. These players demonstrate the ability to play the future game in their capacity for work and some will have the physical attributes required to play the current modern game.
Defensive Warriors – Players who regularly demonstrate the ability to repeatedly make effective decisions in defence which will disrupt the opposition. These players show the bravery to be enthusiastic tacklers, to get off the floor quickly and to contest possession. Players can also demonstrate the ability to make decisions in defence and demonstrate the principles of play around cutting down the options and getting the ball back.
Best Teammates – Players with the ability to self-organise, take responsibility, and build relationships in order to perform
effectively as part of a team. These players are well prepared for training sessions and accept others and develop friendships. They show a point of difference in their attitude including an enthusiasm to improve and take responsibility for their development.
Click below to nominate someone for the DPP.
