LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
As the 2023 season comes to a close, we turn the attention to the future of the Wests Tigers and the young guns to watch out for in 2024 and beyond.
According to weststigers.com.au, there are pathways players on the rise within the club.
This season has already seen several players make their NRL debuts after progressing through the pathways teams.
The success of these players highlights the effectiveness of the club's investment in pathways and development.
It has provided the Wests Tigers with a sustainable source of top-quality rugby league talent.
The pathways process begins with talent identification days for children as young as 12 years old.
This early identification allows the club to nurture and develop these young prospects.
The journey through the pathways system includes winter and summer development squads for early teens, ranging from 13 to 15 years old.
From there, the most promising players move on to junior representative selections, starting with the Andrew Johns Cup for Under 16s.
The next step is progressing from the Harold Matthews competition for Under 17s to the SG Ball competition for Under 19s.
Finally, talented players graduate to the Jersey Flegg competition for Under 21s.
By following this comprehensive pathways process, the Wests Tigers are ensuring that they have a strong pipeline of young talent ready to make an impact in the NRL.
Fans can look forward to seeing these young guns make their mark on the field in the coming seasons.
The club's investment in pathways and development is paying off, and the future looks bright for the Wests Tigers.