The Canberra Raiders have joined forces with the Huddersfield Giants in the English Super League to establish a joint academy program, to give aspiring rugby league players from the Huddersfield region the opportunity to experience rugby league in Australia.

Raiders CEO Don Furner joined Huddersfield Head Coach and former Raiders player Simon Woolford and Giants Head of Youth Andy Kelly in Huddersfield this week to help finalise the cross-continent relationship.

Furner said the creation of the academy would have huge benefits for both organisations, with the Raiders and Giants helping to give valuable experiences and pathways for young players.

“This academy partnership will allow talented young English players the opportunity to come to Australia and test themselves against the best young players in Australia,” Furner said. “They will have the opportunity to train and play in the Raiders junior system and go back home with more experience.

“The Raiders have always had a strong focus on junior development, and we believe we have one of the best pathway systems in the NRL. Through this academy, this pathway is now open to a new group of players from England, who can gain valuable tools in their journey to becoming first-grade players.”

The Raiders will now work with the Giants to determine when the first players will be identified to commence the program.