James praises open trials

South Wales Scorpions’ new coach Aled James believes that this Sunday’s open trials for new players are vital for the future of the club.

The trials are at Nelson RFC starting at 2pm and fans are invited to watch the new potential stars on show as they are given a thorough analysis to see if they are up to the rigours of professional Rugby League.

The club has received over 40 applications from players who come from the breadth of South Wales, some with previous Rugby League experience and some who have only ever played rugby union.

“Like last year, we want the majority of the players in our side to be Welsh,” said James, who started his Rugby League at local side Cardiff Demons before being signed by then Super League club Widnes Vikings in 2003.

“That’s why these trials are important just in case we pick up another Neil Dallimore like we did last year. He was 28-years old, never played Rugby League before, and was one of our stand-out players.

“The core of the squad for 2011 will remain the same and these trials will help us to strengthen even further. We are looking to improve in some areas but now we’re a year wiser, hopefully our performances will be better and we’ll be able to compete with the top sides a bit more.”

In addition to the trials, the club will be announcing some new signings soon, plus James will continue to monitor players throughout South Wales who turn out for their schools in regional competitions throughout the year.

“We’ve got a pathway now in Wales,” he said. “We’ve over 150 schools sides, then there’s the scholarships, under 15s, under 16s, under 18s and if they’re any good from there, we’ll pick them up at the Scorpions and they could then play Super League with Crusaders eventually.”