The One New Zealand Warriors and the newly-formed Apex Rugby League Pathway Programme are working together to provide opportunities for promising young players from the Waikato region.
One New Zealand Warriors general manager recruitment, pathways and development Andrew McFadden and Sky Sport Future Warriors coach Tony Iro were in Hamilton when the programme was launched with the first of eight weekly sessions for 24 selected players in the 14-years-old to 18-years-old age bracket.
Created by Hamilton businessman Tony Barakat, the programme is being run in association with the One New Zealand Warriors as the club continues to develop its network not just in Auckland but also in regional areas throughout the country.
Barakat spent time with the One New Zealand Warriors at Go Media Stadium as he went about setting up the programme.
“It was invaluable having Cappy and Tony there for the launch of the programme,” said Apex Property’s sports director Graeme Maw.
“It was really important for us to have people like them involved. They bring so much expertise and experience and can work with both coaches and players.
“The sessions we’re running over the next two months are focused on building fundamental skills, positional understanding and game awareness.
“Tony’s vision is all about building people and building communities, about providing opportunities for young New Zealanders.
“We are very proud to be leading the way for Waikato rugby league and also very proud of the young men involved in our first intake.”
Through the relationship Apex there will be potential for Waikato-produced players to be exposed to the One New Zealand Warriors’ pathways.
