Green hails Hull KR academy set-up

Hull KR’s James Green describes the transformation of the club’s youth system over the past five years as unbelievable.

Green, 22, alongside centre Liam Salter are products of Rovers’ academy system and were rewarded for their efforts with new contracts, keeping them at Craven Park until the end of 2014.

The former Skirlaugh prop went onto make his senior bow last season away to Bradford in what was an eventful debut, as he was knocked out cold before being put on report later in the game, subsequently accepting a one-game suspension.

He said: “The youth system is looking really good at the moment, the transformation that has gone on there over the last five years has been unbelievable. The players that are coming through are terrific.

“Liam Salter, Scotty Taylor (now at Wigan) and a few others are a good example of what talent is coming out of our academy, a lot more academy products are now in the full time squad. It is testament to the efforts of the coaches.

“Over time every club will rely on their respective academies to find players, they are crucial to every team in Super League.”

One person behind this transformation is the club’s Head of Youth Development, Martin Dunn, who has made huge strides with youngsters in East Hull, making Rovers an increasingly attractive proposition for any young rugby league player.

Green added: “Since my introduction into the first team, Sandy (Craig Sandercock) and Chessie (Chris Chester) have helped me massively and I owe them a lot.

“The senior players have given me hints and tips, and I’ve picked up lots of things on the way. It’s been a long learning curve.”

Green will look to be in contention for the Robins opening game of the 2013 Super League season at home to Catalan Dragons this weekend.