The U's most recent Talent Days have proven to be a success once again.

Over 250 players from the U9s to U16s age brackets headed to the open sessions to try and show off their abilities to the U's coaching staff and, from this event, a number of players at each of the age groups have progressed into the club's pre-season programme, where now they will try to earn a contract for the forthcoming season.

Centre Development Officer Marc Tracy told the official website: "We identified some promising young talent over the week and even some of the players that did not progress to pre-season, were of a very good standard.

"The talent days certainly proved that there is good local talent in the surrounding areas and that we are a club that will provide players with opportunities to be seen with a pathway to progress if you demonstrate the aspects we require.

"With us continuing to raise the bar, it will certainly challenge certain players and this can only be healthy to ensure the standards we strive towards continue."

As Marc previously mentioned, not being invited to pre-season training does not mean the end of the line for aspiring players.

Another door opens for those that have shown glimpses of the required ability, working with the Sport's Trust's ACP set-up.

He added: "The unfortunate players that did not progress to our pre-season programme, have been invited to attend the ACP trials, in which a good percentage, if they decide to take up the opportunity, should progress into.

"Players that attend the ACP are often observed by the Centre of Excellence Staff, and over the past seasons, numerous players have made the step into Centre of Excellence level, which demonstrates the great work achieved by the ACP Staff and their players.

"We again would like to thank every participant for their attendance and perform and wish all players every success for the future."