The Western Force are taking a bold step towards cultivating homegrown talent with the launch of their Super Rugby Next Gen campaign, commencing this Saturday against the NSW Waratahs. This isn’t simply a developmental squad; it’s a strategic investment in the future of Australian rugby, directly feeding into the national U20 program and offering a crucial pathway for Western Australian players.
- Experienced Leadership: Former Force players Jeremy Thrush, Jonno Lance, and Chris Heiberg will spearhead the coaching staff, bringing valuable experience to the young squad.
- Pathway to the Top: The competition is designed to directly identify and develop players for the Australia U20 program, bolstering the national team’s future prospects.
- Unique Age Flexibility: Allowing players over 20 for the Force and Brumbies provides a crucial opportunity to integrate emerging talent with seasoned players, accelerating development.
The creation of Super Rugby Next Gen addresses a critical gap in the Australian rugby landscape. For years, the pathway between club rugby and the professional Super Rugby level has been fragmented. This new competition provides a dedicated, high-performance environment for emerging players to hone their skills and gain valuable experience against their peers. The Force, in particular, have been focused on building a strong local academy, and this competition provides the perfect platform to showcase that investment. The decision to allow the Force and Brumbies to field players over the age of 20 is particularly astute. Both franchises have historically faced challenges in retaining talent due to the lure of opportunities elsewhere. This flexibility allows them to integrate promising players who might otherwise seek game time in other leagues, fostering loyalty and strengthening their squads.
The Force’s fixture list – starting with an away game against the Waratahs, followed by home double-headers against the Brumbies and Reds – is strategically designed to maximize exposure and fan engagement. The co-location of Next Gen matches with Super Rugby Pacific games is a smart move, offering fans a ‘rugby double-bill’ and creating a vibrant atmosphere. The live streaming on rugby.com.au’s YouTube channel is also key, ensuring accessibility for fans across the country and providing a valuable platform for player exposure.
The Forward Look: The success of Super Rugby Next Gen will be measured not just in wins and losses, but in the number of players who progress to Super Rugby Pacific and, ultimately, the Wallabies. Expect intense scrutiny on the performances of players like those emerging from the Force’s academy and wider training squad. The competition’s impact on the Australia U20 program will also be closely watched, particularly as they prepare for upcoming international tournaments. Beyond this inaugural season, the key will be to refine the competition format based on feedback from players, coaches, and fans, ensuring it remains a vital component of the Australian rugby pathway. The Force’s commitment to this initiative signals a long-term vision for sustained success, and their performance in this competition will be a strong indicator of their future trajectory.
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