SAINTS have launched a revolutionary scheme to guarantee a flow of local talent to Knowsley Road.

A comprehensive document detailing a venture dubbed 'Continuous Improvement Programme' (CIP), has been prepared by development executive and Academy coach Nick Halifahi and manager Bill Appleton, along with assistant coach John Ledger

Main thrust of the proposals is that 108 young players in the 11-16 age group be invited for special training at Edge Hill University College, Ormskirk, where Saints train.

Said Nick Halifahi: "The ultimate aim is to produce top stars for Saints, and also benefit players who remain in the amateur ranks.

"Standards will be high on attainment, discipline and behaviour, and any boy failing to meet these exacting demands could be asked to leave and a replacement brought in.

"The emphasis will be on individual rather than team performance, and each youngster will have a database centred on ability, attitude, discipline etc. "In return we hope that the boys selected will want to play for Saints because, at the end of the day, we are looking to produce our own stars rather than buy them."

Sponsored by the Pilkington Foundation and Sportsmatch, CIP is being organised in conjunction with St. Helens schools and the amateur league, and will run in their close season from April to September.

The elite corps has been nominated by a committee of coaches and teachers comprising Derek Trainor/Barry Haselden (Under 11); Ken Maddocks/Andy Fairhurst (U12); Kevin Tipene/Lee Owens (U13); Alan Forber/Ray Jacks (U14); Neil Holding/Eric Frodsham (U15); Eric Chisnall/Ian Davies (U16), with course administrator being Barry Diggles.

The names of the lucky lads will be announced on Tuesday, March 10, and an explanatory meeting with players and parents will be held at Saints on Tuesday, March 17.

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