June 29, 2023

Lions Development Programme starts with a bang

Wakefield Trinity Community Foundation was delighted to see 40+ Community Club players from Under-13s sides situated across the district take part in their first Lions Development Programme games against Featherstone Rovers.

Throughout a new Rugby League initiative for those competing in the younger level age range, the Foundation was pleased to offer Community Club players the opportunity to come together in a Rugby League Series-esque programme in partnership with Rovers, which will see the two sides face off in games in both June and July.

After just one week’s worth of training sessions, over 40 players pulled on the famous strip for the first time, representing Trinity in the hope of developing their skills and technique, with the ambition of levelling up their Rugby League mind and skillset.

Featuring two games of nine-a-side Rugby, the Wakefield Trinity participants were split straight down the middle, facing off against similarly-match Rovers sides, some of whom they have faced at a Community level.

With the pitch tight and the numbers high, the programme offered players to use what they have learnt in training, with neat footwork, quick thinking and tough tackling being the order of the evening.

With the first game done and dusted, the teams will now head back onto the training pitch for the next month before they face off once again at the end of July.

Speaking on the first set of games, the Foundation’s Rugby League & Inclusion Officer, Charlie Doherty, said, “I was extremely pleased with how the lads played within a unique setting, with unknown players and against a couple of competitive sides.

“The players involved are only going to get better over the next month and we hope they can show what they have learnt on this programme on a Sunday morning at a Community level, too.

“I thank Featherstone Rovers for their partnership and look forward to meeting them next month.”

The Foundation also has the same programme running for those in the Under-12 age grade, with sessions running simultaneously on a Wednesday evening (5:30-7pm).

Last night was their first taste of the action, as well, competing in a State of Origin-style battle to showcase what they have learnt in training in a game setting.

To sign up for our Lions Development Programme, please click HERE. Alternatively, for more information, please email charlie.doherty@wakefieldtrinity.com.