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AFL Combine USA - Why can't RL do the same

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226
Guys

Saw this article and although good on the AFL it just shits me that the NRL can not do the same.

http://www.espn.com.au/afl/story/_/...ikened-west-coast-eagles-ruckman-nic-naitanui

As the article states a few players from these combines have made the list of AFL teams.

We can think what we like about the AFL but they just seem to be more progressive in so many area's.

We keep hearing something like only 2% of USA college footballers get to go into the NFL but we do not hear anything about how to tap into these potential athletes. I know the Toronto side did something similar but I feel a more concerted effort would reap some real rewards for our game.
 

adamkungl

Immortal
Messages
42,955
While I don't think the idea is necessarily a bad one (more for the benefit of the USA national team than the NRL or SL)

It's been proven numerous times now that while anyone passably athletic can make top grade in an ALF side, cracking first grade Rugby League without growing up with the game is notably more difficult, even for Rugby Union athletes.
American Footballers are by college level a completely different type of specialised fitness and skillset.

Even for a div 3 team, Wolfpack only picked out a tiny amount of local athletes.

That all said - I still think these kinds of things are good ideas IF the money is available.
 

titoelcolombiano

First Grade
Messages
5,276
How about we just tap the Pacific Islands, PNG, WA, Victoria and SA properly. It would do wonders for NRL depth and the international game.

Having said that, let Toronto develop North American talent with this kind of process. The AFL don't have a fully professional North American team like RL does
 

Golden point

Juniors
Messages
456
Bit strange to be talking about how much better the afl is at progress in the year of the world Cup. I wonder how they feel about the fact rugby league isn't just played in North America but has a professional team and the usa is in the world Cup !
 

titoelcolombiano

First Grade
Messages
5,276
Bit strange to be talking about how much better the afl is at progress in the year of the world Cup. I wonder how they feel about the fact rugby league isn't just played in North America but has a professional team and the usa is in the world Cup !

Exactly! The AFL has to do it all on their own globally on their Australian TV deal. RL has a professional setup in Australia with a similar TV deal but included in that system are pro clubs from NZL and PNG (hopefully soon Fiji), a professional set-up in England with pro clubs in France and Canada and semi pro clubs in Wales.

Plus the RLIF moving forward have their own income stream for developing the sport. I know which position I'd rather be in
 
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