Shabino wrote:ArthurClues wrote:We have to be patient with these kids. We've seen what can happen when they get thrown in too soon - Walker totally crocked; Newman consistently crocked; Holroyd yet to put any kind of run together because of injury. Glad that Smith wants to look after Gannon and I hope he develops the likes of Simpson and Edwards slowly. In todays game 20/21 is the new 18/19 for these players.
Hmmm not sure about that. Walkers main injury been a completely freak foot one, that could have happened in a junior game. Holroyd not played anywhere near enough first grade to explain the amount of injuries. And wild horses couldn’t have held Newman back, he was so ready.
Far as I’m concerned if your good enough to merit a spot in the 17 you should be getting some opportunities……
Look at Welsby and Dodd at Saint’s for comparison.
Dodds been injured all year ! And so has Newman!
I think Arthurs wider point is that putting too much of a strain and workload can affect their development both pyhsically and mentally and some players need longer to mature and develop.
Also much easier to do that in a team that is settled winning and has a big physical pack. You will have exceptions like Welsby and Sir Kev who are just born ready but some clearly have the talent but it takes a bit longer to come through. Cam Smith this year has started to fulfil the potential that eveybody knew he had but its taken a while. In some cases its a mental maturity as well as a physical one. If we have a bigger pack next year and are not flogging our backs bringing the ball off our line every game then great time to introduce Edwards/Simpson but lets do it gradually with a view on the long term!