Tigers launch Scholarship class of 2023

Castleford Tigers’ Youth Department invited their new Scholarship recruits as well as current Scholars and their parents or guardians to Christchurch in Xscape for the launch of our Under 16s development programme for 2022-23.

Taking place on Friday, 23rd September ahead of on-field training beginning on Monday the 26th, the night provided the opportunity for all the Fords’ youth staff to introduce themselves further, and lay out their expectations and all that will be in store for the youngsters.

Watch the video below!

This year Cas’ youth department also experienced a new era with Head of Youth Development Rob Nickolay working closely with Head Coach Lee Radford allowing young stars the best opportunity to grow and develop into representing the Tigers at First Team level in the future.

Castleford have a long and proud tradition of developing players in our youth system and making them into future First Team talent. In recent years the Tigers have seen graduates such as Jason Qareqare, Cain Robb and Sam Hall make their Super League debuts.

Last week’s launch wasn’t just beneficial to the players, but also their parents and guardians who also play such a crucial role in the youngsters’ growth on and off the pitch. Their families were encouraged to interact and ask questions to any of the coaches and staff who will have contact with their child during their time at the club.

Head of Youth Development Nickolay enforced just how vital evenings like the one recently are in terms of getting the chance to reward players for their hard work up until now as well as touching base with their families.

“These events are a big thing that we wanted to add in there. It’s about celebrating their achievements to date because gaining a scholarship place is something to celebrate with your family. Lee (Radford) is a massive advocate for that, so he wants to be part of that process.

“It’s a nice way to network with the families and have a bit of facetime with us as well because the nature of training is that it’s all go so it’s nice to be able to take a few minutes with them.”

Everyone at the Tigers would like to wish the Scholars all the best as they head into their first training session this week!