The WA Rugby League will use the success of local players at National Rugby League clubs as a key element in the bid for a franchise in an expanded NRL competition.
The WARL believes its pathway for aspiring young players is showing results.
Eight youngsters have signed for NRL clubs' Toyota Cup development teams since the WARL set up the Reds under-18 SG Ball national competition side three years ago. A ninth was drafted from the WA under-18 squad.
Six players who started their careers in Perth have also gone on to become NRL players.
WARL chief executive John Sackson said junior development was a pillar of the expansion bid.
"One of the main jobs of the WARL is the development of the game at junior level," he said.
"That is the future of the game and we have the infrastructure in place.
"There is evidence that the structures, including our academy, are starting to deliver results.
"The Reds in particular have provided the stage on which young WA players have been able to showcase their skills, attract the attention of talent scouts, and consequently be recruited into the NRL club system."
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/sport/a/-/other/14011042/junior-program-helps-nrl-bid/
A comprehensive financial stress test from the world?s largest accountancy firm has the Central Queensland bid team confident they have nailed the crucial viability criteria for potential NRL inclusion.
