Rugby League Ireland is beginning to reap the benefits of their inaugural Talent Identification Academy that took place in Limerick last May, with a trio of players who took part in the three day showcase currently trialling at Super League clubs. Aaron McCloskey (pictured above) and Ian Cross have linked up with St Helens while William Stewart has headed to Castleford Tigers.

At the Academy camp over 20 young players from all four Irish provinces took part in workouts, fitness testing, interviews and games watched by coaches from top professional clubs. On the back of their performances at the Academy, all three players were immediately called into the Irish Wolfhounds squad and made their international debuts in the international with Wales.

Welcoming the news Gordon Matthews, General Manager of Rugby League Ireland, commented,  “The idea behind that inaugural Talent Identification Academy was to give players of high ability an opportunity to see if a career in Rugby League was something they would be interested in. That, in turn, allows Rugby League Ireland to improve the quality of our national team through identifying young, raw talent that may flourish in the professional game.  As we head towards the 2013 World Cup, our hope is that more home-grown youngsters will make the grade at elite level.” He continued, “Plans are already underway to host a similar Talent Identification Academy in 2012.”

In addition, another standout member of Rugby League Ireland’s junior level set up has joined Leeds Rhinos Under 20s on trial. Three-quarter Joe Taylor was invited to the Academy but was unable to attend due to exam commitments. He was spotted playing for Ireland by ex-Irish International Barrie McDermott, who is now Head of Youth Development at the Rhinos. He plays his domestic Rugby League with the North Dublin Eagles and captained the Irish student team in 2011. Playing on the wing, he scored for the Rhinos last week in their Valvoline Cup win at Salford.