Coaches for Superleague champions Bradford Bulls knew where to come to pick a handful of rugby players to attend a sports course - Bierley.

Ten lucky youngsters got the chance to go on a rugby weekend training programme after being selected by coaches at Bierley Community Centre.

The scheme - organised by the Superleague champions and Bradford Council - is part of a drive to encourage the popular sport to be played at a grassroots level across the region.

For the third year in succession coaches organised a series of training sessions to spot potential stars of the future across the city.

And it was Bierley that proved to be the most successful hot bed of talent according to the centre's sports development officer Talish Butt.

"They normally pick a few kids from each session, but our standard was so good they picked ten," he said.

They will join junior Bulls players at a training camp in North Yorkshire..

Rugby League Development Officer Andy Harland said those selected showed they had the talent to play the game and could have a bright future in the Superleague

"All of the players going have been identified as having talent and it is important to nurture their skills on the course."

Mr Harland said the scheme, which had secured long-term funding from Bradford Council in Bierley, would help younger members form a junior club.

Mr Butt said he was delighted that so many Bierley youths were picked.

"I am hoping that this will lead into a greater interest in the sport," he said.

Ten-year-old Jamie Malone, of Helena Way, was thrilled to be picked for the trip.

He said: "I am just going to enjoy it. When I am older I would love to play for the Bulls."

His pal Darren McCormack, 12, of Bierley House Avenue, who lists Robbie Paul as one of his favourite players, said: "Rugby is the best and we have learned a lot of good skills on this course. I can't wait to go on the rugby weekend."

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