Rugby Leagues future stars have taken their first step towards the dream of playing in the NRL.
One hundred players from the Sea Eagles, Wests Tigers, Eels and Bulldogs attended the second round of Toyota Cup Under 20 induction camps with NRL CEO David Gallop and Toyota Cup Manager Michael Buettner joining former internationals Ben Ikin and Jason Stevens in addressing the NRL hopefuls at the Sydney Football Stadium.
The induction camps are the first step in preparing young players for the demands and challenges of professional Rugby League and involve intensive seminars educating players on topics such as illicit drugs, cultural awareness, attitudes towards women, finance and budgeting, media training and the dangers of alcohol and gambling.
Tim Mannah, a 19-year-old front-rower from Parramatta, said the two-day camp opened his eyes to the responsibilities and challenges that came with competing in the Toyota Cup.
Going away from the camp Ive learnt heaps about the responsibilities we have towards the sport, Mannah said.
Whether you like it or not you are representing the game and the development of Rugby League.
It is something I have learned and Ill definitely work on it in years to come.
Manly Sea Eagles John Grey, a centre from Dubbo who is living in Sydney for the first time, echoed the sentiment
Everything we have been informed about at this induction camp exceeds all my expectations, Grey said.
The information that is provided is something that a lot of players will learn from and value greatly.
Wests Tigers lock Daniel Harrison said one of the highlights of the camp was hearing from the elite players in the game, including the likes of Laurie Daley, Gorden Tallis, Brad Fittler and current Australian Kangaroos players Steve Price, Cameron Smith, Israel Folau and coach Ricky Stuart.
I didnt know what to expect coming into these camps, but it has been really helpful, Harrison said.
It is great to see the NRL players and hear their advice.
It shows us what it is going to be like and we can really relate to what they are saying.
Fellow Tiger Blake Lazarus agreed.
The whole camp has opened up my eyes to everything that is behind Rugby League, Lazarus said.
Its not just on the field that you have to worry about, but a lot of stuff is away from the field and that is something I will take away with me.
The Toyota Cup is a revolutionary concept in Australian sport with player development and education as much a part of the competition as the actual football.
All players will be required to further their education or attend work-place training as part of their Toyota Cup career.
Mr Buettner believes that by promoting two careers the competition ensures the long-term future of players on and off the field.
A professional Rugby League career has an average lifespan of less than four seasons, he said.
Players are realising the need to gain qualifications or experience away from the game to prepare for life after football.
This is something we are trying to teach the youngsters from an early stage.
Over 65 per cent of current NRL players either have a post-school qualification or are currently studying.
A further 15 per cent either have additional employment or are gaining experience in the workplace.
Eight teams have completed the induction camps with the Warriors, Titans, Coyboys and Broncos to start their three-day camp on Friday.
The Knights, Storm, Panthers and Raiders will undertake their induction camp at the Sydney Football Stadium from January 18-19.
Source: NRL
