THE New England region has been the rugby nursery for some of the country’s best players and the next generation’s chances look just as bright.
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More than 70 players from around the region will trial for the under-15s and under-17s junior gold squad in Armidale.
Athletes from across the New England and Central including Moree, Tamworth, Scone, Quirindi and Armidale will vie for spots in the squads.
The Australian Rugby Union’s development program will see 30 players selected into each of the age groups.
The Northern Inland Junior Gold program is based at The Armidale School and centre coordinator Jamie Moore said it was important there was a home for junior rugby in the region.
“Having a base gives us a spiritual home and that is important for the development of rugby in the North West,” he said.
“It is part of the ARU’s long term athlete development and offers a competitive pathway in those age groups to a national level.”
Following Sunday’s trial athletes will return to home where they will be mentored by home coaches within clubs.
The squads will gather in Armidale regularly to train as a unit.
Sunday’s trial will kick off at 10am.
Players will be put through their paces with skills before they play a series of games.
Athletes are not required to currently be registered with a club but will need parental approval.
Nominations are preferred before Sunday but will be accepted on the day.
The trials will be held at Wakefield, on the corner of Grafton Road at Chapel St.
