The 2015 VB NSW Cup competition was yesterday officially launched at Wentworthville Leagues Club – and NSW VB Blues coach Laurie Daley believes the upcoming season will be the closest on record.
The premier feeder competition to the NRL, the VB NSW Cup, which kicks-off this weekend, remains an integral pathway for juniors and seniors alike.
“In Origin, we’ve benefitted from the VB NSW Cup,” Daley said.
“A range of our current NSW VB Blues players and those in and around the team have come through the NSWRL and VB NSW Cup set-up. Five-eighths James Maloney and Josh Reynolds and halfback Trent Hodkinson all played in the VB Cup only a couple of years ago, showing how strong the development and pathway system is and how integral the league is to the game in general.
“The competition is all about the stars of the future and grassroots rugby league – it’s great to get the opportunity to see those budding stars up close and in person on their development path.
“Not everyone is ready for first grade at 21 – players in different positions mature at different stages of their careers. The VB NSW Cup, Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shields are they places they really learn their trade.
“I can’t wait to see the games this year. It should be a great season and, while last year’s grand-finalists Panthers and Knights should once again be strong, it’s really anyone’s competition. I really can’t pick a winner.”
The Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions were also launched today, with both due to kick on the weekend of March 14-15.
Click here for more on the launch of the 2015 NSWRL competitions.
