Rugby League Rookie Camp
Thursday, January 25, 2007 - 1:24 PM
Rugby League?s emerging generation of stars will come together for the NRL?s third annual three-day Rookie Camp at Sydney University this Sunday 28 January.
The likes of Jarryd Hayne, Nick Kouparitsis, Jarrad Hickey and Mitchell Pearce will be among the 60 participants nominated by their clubs for the camp, all hoping to follow similar paths to past graduates like Greg Inglis, Benji Marshall and Karmichael Hunt.
Since the first Rookie Camp in 2005 more than 75% of the participants have gone on to play first grade, 12 have played for their country and seven have played in a winning Grand Final team.
This year?s programme has expanded to include four members of the Referees Development Squad and another new component of the camp will see ABC Rugby League commentator Craig Hamilton address participants on mens? mental health issues.
Every aspect of life as a professional athlete, both on and off field, will be covered, including discussions on making the most of media and sponsorship opportunities, issues relating to off field behaviour, dealing with the challenges of suddenly becoming a role model and preparing for life beyond football.
The camp will see influential past and present players pass on advice based on their own experiences (Bradley Clyde, Tim Sheens, Ben Ikin, Laurie Daley, Craig Fitzgibbon, Andrew Ryan among others).
Source: NRL