Yes I saw every game from the CAS and CHS vs GPS to every match in the finals from early morning and believe I have a good eye .There were definitely some guys in the beaten lower tier teams who with their big hits and moves making meters had me reaching for programs to see who they were and in many cases they got picked in the Nationals.I think there were some odd selections like no recognised playing no 7 or really no 6 picked and the weird thing that has happened over the choice of 2nd rowers and even back rows-they appear to be in the minds of the selectors capable of interchange!.However there is amonst the boys not chosen some guys whose form as shown over the years and even this year outside the championship rounds is superior to those chosen and can cover 6,7,or 8 who were not selected either because their form was down over the two weeks or maybe the selectors have a particular physical specimen in mind-there is a few in the nationals selections who will have rings run around them as their school season continues-unfortunately it is too late for all that.Onwards and Upwards.
Can some one explain to me what "Pathways" means?Is that something that any national level player or even non national player can participate in-I am thinking of the future for those guys who are determined to make a big success of their rugby after School-what on earth do they do.Is that mapped out anywhere by the ARU?I mean I am guessing that they pick a club and play their hearts out-is it as simple as that.I don't think so?OR if it is it shouldn't be?Does someone have some guidance here?Which are the best clubs with the best coaches in Grade and in Colts-who is not going broke,who has good support like physios and speed ,fitness and strength training professionals?What advice can we give our sons?