The Bulldogs have continued to inspire the next generation of footballers, taking time during the weekends' trip to New Zealand (NZ) to host a number of development initiatives.
While the weekend did not see the Bulldogs bag a Mt Smart win against the Warriors, the Club departed the Tasman knowing that they left nothing in the tank and that the Bulldogs latest satellite clinic is in good hands.
Flying in for a four-night stay ahead of the Round 4 clash, the Bulldogs demonstrated their support for local players and coaches by hosting a series of training sessions and coaching clinics whilst in NZ.
On Friday night, Josh Addo-Carr, Tevita Pangai-Junior and Jackson Topine surprised local students by arriving for a meet and greet during a training clinic held at St Paul's College, Auckland.
That same evening, over 50 coaches from across Auckland Rugby League Junior League converged on the school's auditorium to participate in a coach education evening that the Club was hosting.
Bulldogs General Manager of Pathways, Adam Hartigan and members of the Pathways team, Craig Wilson, Fifita Hala and Allan Ettles, were on-hand to present a number of skills and drills that the coaches could do to assist in their players' development.
Then, on Saturday, the Club's contracted 15, 16, and 17-year-olds headed to North Harbour Stadium for a joint training session followed by the NRL squad Captain's Run.
Chelden Hayward and Genesis Sherlock, two outside backs of the New Zealand Bulldogs Academy players who reside in Christchurch, were also invited to participate in an NRL training session to gain some first-hand experience the intensity of first-grade training.
A special presentation on behalf of Club Captain, Raymond Faitala-Mariner's family followed, and the junior representative players were then able to meet and greet the Bulldogs' full squad and coaching staff.
The activity in New Zealand is an extension of the Club's satellite Academy programs as run across the NSW North Coast, and Greater Northern and Toowoomba regions.
Hartigan said the clear goal of the NZ satellite program is long term athletic development, whilst maintaining schooling and family life:
"The satellite programs are essential as they enable us to work with kids to develop their talent without needing to relocate them from an early age and take them away from their home and their families," he said.
Players are encouraged to stay home in their own environment so they can finish their schooling uninterrupted, while still being provided opportunity and a clear pathway to the NRL through the Bulldogs.
"Providing that is the best scenario for their development. It is something we believe in strongly but every players situation is different. We judge it on a case by case basis and monitor it very closely to ensure the best scenario for the players' welfare and development."
