Saints England Talent Pathway (ETP) is an RFL developed programme which helps nurture young players along the player pathway. The aim is for it to be seen as the “national curriculum” for 12- to 14-year-old rugby league players, introducing and developing players regardless of playing experience.
SCDF continued it’s commitment to developing talent by delivering an ETP Rugby League Winter 9s festival which seen teams from Clockface, Thatto Heath, Blackbrook, Portico, Pilkington Recs play over three weekends. The events were sponsored by Hatton’s Premier Travel and was hosted by Pilkington Recs, Thatto Heath ARLFC and Clockface Miners ARLFC.
The purpose of the festival was to create a format where players would be encouraged to demonstrate their potential, individual flair, and decision-making in a player centred environment. This would also allow their coaches the opportunity to observe and analyse their players technically & tactically without the worry of normal result driven competition.
St Helens Rugby League Referees Society is also considered as one of the St Helens community clubs that play a full part in supporting the ETP Winter 9s festivals.
Five local officials took to the field observed by three coaches across the three events. From the most established professionally graded local referees who welcomed the rare off-season run out to the newest member, who made her debut with the whistle at Clock Face, all contributed to letting the young players enjoy organised game time.
The three rounds were also used by the Society to trial their newest equipment. Referee body cameras will be used in some leagues during 2022, and the St Helens Community ETP Winter 9s were great opportunities to test their potential for referee skills, positioning and communication development.
