A global search is underway to find the NRL's next superstar.
A new Nine Network reality show called "The NRL Rookie" will discover someone who has what it takes to make it in the NRL – and guarantee them a contract.
As revealed on The Footy Show last night, potential NRL players will be invited to take part in the program – with the winner being awarded a professional contract with an NRL club.
NRL Head of Marketing, Lewis Pullen said The NRL Rookie program would demonstrate the hard work that players have to put in to become NRL stars.
"The fans see the excitement of game day and the wonderful skills that players demonstrate on the field," Mr Pullen said.
"What they don't see is the gruelling workouts and tough competition that players face to make an NRL side.
"The NRL Rookie will also show the work the players do off the field with juniors, school kids and in the community."
To be eligible to become the NRL Rookie, players must be at least 20 years of age – and they must not have played in the NRL Telstra Premiership. They must not have played NSW Cup, Queensland Cup or Holden Cup under 20s in the last three seasons.
"In other words, it will be an unknown who, until now, has had the talent to play NRL but has not been discovered," Mr Pullen said.
The NRL and the Nine Network are now taking applications from those wanting to become the NRL Rookie. The NRL is welcoming applications from across the globe although it is expected that Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands and the UK will field the most applicants.
As a long term partner of the NRL, Telstra are proud to be officially supporting this initiative which will connect communities and demonstrate some of the amazing talent that grassroots Rugby League has to offer.
Mr Pullen said the show had the potential to encourage more people to play Rugby League and showcase the game throughout Australia.
"Somewhere out there is someone with great potential who dreams of becoming an NRL star," Mr Pullen said
"We are going to help him realise that potential – whoever he is!"
Visit nrlrookie.com for more information and to apply.
The NRL Rookie will be produced in association with Channel 9 and McGuire Media.
Follow The NRL Rookie journey on Twitter with #nrlrookie
