I just did a rough run of current NRL players to find out ratio of players vs month born
Interesting to see that there is evidence that those born before June have a larger representation in first grade (53.5% vs 46.5%)
Of more interest to me was the fact that 22% of current NRL players were born Jan/Feb vs just 12% born Nov/Dec
While anecdotal, I would suggest that this points to an issue in the junior league ranks. An extra 6-8 months growth.strength/maturity is an advantage in those early years. It makes you a target for junior rep honours, coaching etc - and therefore gives you advantage the next year
Is the NRL missing out on huge potential due to the way junior ranks are graded? I know they are trying to address this with their 18 month registration window, but does this cover it completely?
Interesting to see that there is evidence that those born before June have a larger representation in first grade (53.5% vs 46.5%)
Of more interest to me was the fact that 22% of current NRL players were born Jan/Feb vs just 12% born Nov/Dec
While anecdotal, I would suggest that this points to an issue in the junior league ranks. An extra 6-8 months growth.strength/maturity is an advantage in those early years. It makes you a target for junior rep honours, coaching etc - and therefore gives you advantage the next year
Is the NRL missing out on huge potential due to the way junior ranks are graded? I know they are trying to address this with their 18 month registration window, but does this cover it completely?
