Official Crusaders RL web site

Academy

The Crusaders have completed the launch of their prestigious and exciting junior development programme.

The four homegrown squads have been launched in a geographical spread that will cover the whole of South Wales.

It will initially consist of the best of 12-16 year old players currently in the Welsh Rugby League system. They will follow a programme of Long Term Athletic Development and rugby league focused education. The players will be encouraged to be ambassadors of the great game of rugby league and the Crusaders.

Being included initially in the squad is not a guarantee of success. Hard work, commitment and continued progress in school as well as in the rugby league environment will ensure reward. However, the Crusaders have a continuing programme of talent identification in relationship with Wales Rugby League which will ensure a continual focus on quality control. The Crusaders are aware that they have seen the 'tip of the iceberg' in Wales and that there is a wealth of athletic ability to be recruited and developed within these squads

All players involved in the homegrown squads will have access to some of the best coaching available, both with the area homegrown staff, as well as direct support from the Crusaders. The best of the homegrown players will be identified and asked to attend the Elite Home Grown squad programme under the direct guidance of the Head of Youth Performance, Andy Lindley.

Here are the four squads that we have set up so far. Please click on the title of each region for the latest news...

BRIDGEND- based at Brynteg school

Initially set up with 13 players

Manager: Kevan Tee

Coach: Kevin Ellis

Coach: Craig Fox

Coach: Matthew Hillman

CARDIFF / CAERPHILLY / NEWPORT / GWENT - based at St. Josephs school, Newport

Initially set up with 15 players

Manager: Anthony Loxton

Coach: Wayne Williams

Coach: Stefan Sankala