This season sees the inauguration of an exciting initiative throughout the Ospreys region which further demonstrates the Regions commitment to the development of "â¬Ëhome"â¬â¢ grown talent.
Ospreys Early Learning Player Development Programme
The scheme is the first one of its kind in Wales and will benefit young performers at all levels.
The Early Learning Player Development Programme (ELPD) will be based on fourteen year old performers. Players will be identified from the three Junior Associations "â¬" the District Teams (Bridgend, Neath Port Talbot and Swansea) to take part in this inaugural programme. Towards the end of last season, the Ospreys recognised the need to provide support and endorsement for the District Teams, as it was felt that some of the best talent in the Region did not, for various reasons, always make it to this level of representative rugby, and this they started by taking an active role in the appointment of the District coaches. Players and coaches alike can now relate to and feel part of the Ospreys Development pathway.
Following the Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model the programme will be focused on the development needs that are applicable for players at this age group.
Young performers will attend the ELPD once a week and it will take place at the training base of the Ospreys, Llandarcy, where some of the Regions and Nations leading coaches and players will be actively involved
The programme started this week, with the Regions Captain, Ryan Jones providing his knowledge and experience to the programme, and will continue throughout the season with the players developing and raising their awareness on the following themes.
· Rugby Skills
· Conditioning Work
· Lifestyle Skills
· Nutrition
· Player Profiling
· Video Analysis
Director of Rugby, Kevin Hopkins said "â¬ÅWith the continued growth of regional rugby and its increased competitiveness, we recognise the need to work closely with the Community game and by establishing this new initiative the Ospreys can be confident of the development processes within the region, one that will hopefully aid in our quest for European success"â¬Â.