Published: 19th December 2025
Giants Community Trust launch details of the Giants Evolution Pathway (GEP) programme for 2026
The Giants Evolution Pathway (GEP) is an open-access player development programme for young players from school Year 7 upwards, linked with the RFL Lions Development programme.
The pathway consists of eight cohorts running from February to September, delivered across both North and South Kirklees. This structure ensures we engage with the widest possible pool of players and provide equal access to development opportunities.
All sessions are coached in line with the Huddersfield Giants pathway framework, offering high-quality coaching within a professional environment. The programme focuses on developing key skill sets, increasing the number of quality players in the area, and supporting the growth of the grassroots game and community clubs.
The GEP plays a vital role in strengthening links with players and community clubs, helping to guide and support players as they progress through their age groups and move along their development pathway.
Rebecca Colwell, Giants Community Trust Rugby Development Manager comments:
“The Giants Evolution Pathway is a vital part of our long-term commitment to developing young players across our network.
The open-access sessions are aligned with Huddersfield Giants structures, creating a seamless and effective pathway that supports players at every stage of their journey and helps them reach their maximum potential.
By offering more opportunities for players, whether they are already involved in the game or looking to develop further we strengthen our relationships with community clubs, ensure consistent coaching and guidance, and create clear, accessible progression routes as players move through the age groups.
Ultimately, the GEP allows us to make a positive impact on the grassroots game while providing young people with the best possible environment to develop both as players and individuals.”
Also as part of the programme, the Trust also provides Coaching CPD opportunities – this can help upskill and practice ideas, transition through the age groups, increase your coaching network and invest in opportunities to work inline with the Giants pathways.
Rebecca adds: “We are always looking to develop the community game and the upskill the coaches, if you are interested in getting involved in the programme please contact – rebecca.c@hgct.co.uk“
You can now view and book your players onto the development session by clicking HERE.
