Nominations for the Sale Sharks Player Development Group (PDG) for next season’s U15 and U16 players are now open for the 2026/2027 season.
The Boys Age-Grade Pathway is governed by the Professional Game Partnership and involves the RFU and Premiership Rugby working together. The purpose of the Academy System is to produce players for the Premiership and England. Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire are affiliated with the Sale Sharks Academy.
The Boys Age Grade Pathway comprises of two phases: Foundation (U15/U16) and Development (U17/U18). The first stage of the pathway is designed to support and challenge those who are showing strong, consistent development within their current club or school environments, bringing clear strengths that influence games and are ready to take the next step in their rugby development.
Age Groups
- U15 Boys: Born 1 Sep 2011 – 31 Aug 2012
- U16 Boys: Born 1 Sep 2010 – 31 Aug 2011
Key Information
- Clubs and Schools should only nominate players who align with the Sale Sharks DNA and are prepared to engage with the demands of the programme.
- U16 nominations are limited to a maximum of 2 players per club / school.
- Players who are already in the U15 PDG this year do not require re-nomination and do not count towards the nomination limits.
- There is no requirement for coaches to hold a Level 2 qualification to submit nominations.
- For guidance on the nomination criteria and Sharks DNA player profile expectations, coaches should view this link: CRITERIA AND EXPECTATIONS
Next Steps
- U16 assessments will take place in August 2026
- U15 assessments will take place in September 2026
- Parents/guardians will be contacted directly by Sharks with full details following the close of nominations.
- Please ensure all contact email addresses supplied are accurate and regularly monitored, as all communication will be sent via email.
To submit a PDG Nomination use this link: https://tinyurl.com/sharkspdg26
Nomination Deadline: Monday 8th June 2026
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to get in touch with Ged Hall, Sale Sharks Foundation Phase Talent ID Officer, gerard.hall@salesharks.com
