Very likely Makasini is fast tracked into NRL team & he’s a goal kicker albeit I’d prefer the kid not to have the added responsibility at such a young age
Agree. Developing a player is not just maturing his game on the field but maturing his attitude and knowledge off the field.
LG is a classic example of how the system promoted his faults.
It is hard to get it right under the current system but I still believe an apprenticeship type of scheme endorsed by the NRL and run by the clubs would work. Four year apprenticeship starting in Flegg and ending in KOE.
Players selected for apprenticeships are dependent on pathway success.
Under this system, players like Makasini would be in his final KOE Cup year in 2026 then in 2027 he throws away his L plates enabling him to play NRL.
The salary rises every year until he hits the baseline at which time he earns what his manager can wrangle.
Managers can't get involved until the player has finished 4 years apprenticeship.
Players and managers can't revolt because it's a std NRL organised system. One rule for everyone.
Players on 800k+ deals shouldn't be available to 17-18 yr old imo.
HSC or year 12 is mandatory as is tertiary education during those 4 years to ensure players are not thrown onto the scrap heap if they fail with their footy career.
The system sorta follows American college footy.
The system has flaws but can be fine tuned.
One problem is what do you do with supplementary and trial contracts?
The NRL will continue to put their heads in the sand and allow their product to be mocked if managers are allowed to continue their unscrupulous behaviour.