RUGBY UNION: Hawks must back youth (From Oxford Mail)

RUGBY UNION: Hawks must back youth

4:40pm Wednesday 11th February 2009 in Sport By Ed Mezzetti

Henley Hawks chairman Phil Woodall says they must put even more emphasis on developing young talent if they are to progress.

The restructure of the national leagues next season will mean clubs at Henley’s level will receive less RFU cash and many will have to go for a more ‘amateur’ playing budget.

Writing in their latest newsletter, Woodall said for Henley this would mean “even greater emphasis on developing local talent as it will no longer be viable for players to travel great distances to play and train.

“And this is going to require our considerable attention to finding and encouraging the best of our local youngsters to join the Hawks instead of a number of competing clubs.

“We have a thriving mini and junior section, but it is the transition from junior to senior rugby that is the tricky part, and the area which probably requires our closest attention in the coming year or two.

“We are giving this matter much thought at present.”