Vikings launch a new scholarship scheme designed to nurture the talents of the borough's young Rugby League stars.

A NEW Vikings Scholarship scheme designed to give the town's young Rugby League players the opportunity to reach their full potential will be launched by the club this month.

Players selected from local clubs all over Widnes for their talent on the field will be signed up to the scheme, which will help prepare them for professional life on and off the field.

Initially, 12 outstanding young rugby players, between the ages of 13 and 15-years-old, will be invited to take part in the scholarship and will receive on-field training from the Vikings' professional coaches, as well as access to the club's physiotherapists, psychologists and facilities.

They will also receive tutorials on how to deal with the media and being interviewed and learn tactics through video analysis.

The youngsters have been recommended to the club by coaches affiliated to the Halton Service Area, a partnership between Halton's Rugby League clubs, the borough council and the Widnes Vikings.

Vikings' youth coach John Foran, who is heading the new scheme, told Flagship: "The scholarship is about generally improving these kids and if we like them and they like us there is the possibility that they will be offered professional contracts when they are old enough.

"Widnes has never done anything like this before. Whether the youngsters are eventually offered contracts with the club or not, they will have benefited from the experience of being a part of a professional club."

It is hoped that the scholarship will eventually have places for up to 25 young stars.

John added: "We are also planning to introduce an academy team which we have not had for years. The scholarship and academy are about creating a pathway for young players from school, right through to the first team."