Widnes Vikings have been accredited as an England Rugby League Development Partner for delivery of the Rugby Football League’s Embed the Pathway programme.

The aim of the Embed the Pathway accreditation system is to “kitemark” organisations working in partnership with England Rugby League to develop the talent base for U12s to U14s.

'Embed the Pathway' is a coaching programme supported by Gillette that aims to increase the number of quality 12-14 year old Rugby League players through the education and training of children's coaches. This "scheme of work" is a programme of Coach Education, Inclusive Player Profiling and 24 sessions that can be used and adapted to meet the needs of young players at any stage. Embed the Pathway aims to develop all talent within the age groups of U12-U14s. The aim is to grow a greater pool of talent to improve standards and develop potential England players.

Widnes Vikings regularly deliver constructive Embed the Pathway open access sessions at the Select Security Stadium for Under 12s, 13s and 14s. The sessions give the young players an insight into the programme from a technical, tactical, psychological and athletic development perspective.

Kurtis Marsh, Widnes Vikings Player Performance Manager commented:

“Now that the Club has England Rugby League Player Development Partner status we can continue to identify current high performers and also those players that we believe have long term high potential.

Our efforts in identifying and developing young players are evident in the number of players currently in our First Team squad. Having been awarded England Rugby League Player Development Partner accreditation we will continue to offer coaching to young people and offer a clear pathway progression through the Academy environment and into the professional ranks.”