Western Clydesdales ready to announce draft eligible players
With potentially 20 or more Western Clydesdales players on offer Toowoomba Rugby League clubs are set for a squad boost. We reveal here when clubs can start drafting new stars.
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Toowoomba Rugby League clubs could be drafting Western Clydesdales players by the end of this week.
The Western Clydesdales are hoping to finalise their list of more than 20 draft eligible players in the next 48 hours before speaking to TRL and its member clubs.
While the exact nature of the draft process is also yet to be finalised this masthead understands Brothers will have the first pick if they opt to take part.
The draft order will be the reverse of the 2023 Premiership A-grade table with Brothers, who finished last in 12th spot, followed by Newtown, Oakey and Highfields.
If every team opts to participate in the draft 2023 minor premiers Valleys will have the last ‘first round’ pick and the draft will continue until every eligible player is selected.
“It’s a complicated process and we want to make sure it works for everyone – the club, Toowoomba Rugby League and the players themselves.”
Sullivan said players would have a say in their destination and any pre-existing club ties would be considered during the draft process.
The ultimate goal however is to provide more football opportunities for players and to strengthen the TRL on and off the field.
“We want the players not involved in our (Hostplus) game day squad to be able to go back to their club and play footy,” he said.
“It’s a great opportunity for them (the players) and the clubs involved.
“We want to help lift and develop the game locally and this is a way to achieve that.
“It’s not just about what’s happening on the field though.
“We want to strengthen the ties off the field as well. We want our players to be actively involved in their clubs whether that is through how they train, running junior sessions or contributing in other way, it’s all about community and supporting game at every level.”