How Hull KR's frustration at decision spurred one of the most important moves for the future

Hull KR's head of player development Jason Netherton has revealed how the trauma of losing their Elite Academy licence and the manner in which it came about has spurred the club on to their recent success.

It was confirmed last week the Robins had regained their elite licence until 2027, after being placed on a provisional list and asked to prove their credentials.

In May 2021, Bradford Bulls, Castleford Tigers and Hull KR were shocked when the trio were refused an Elite Academy Licence, with the clubs handed little to no time to inform players or staff and the decision bringing widespread condemnation.

Netherton, who made 146 appearances for the Robins between 2006-2014, has been involved with the club's academy since 2014 and remembers that day still with sadness and frustration at how it came to be.

"It was a tough day that one," Netherton told Hull Live. "To be told when the licence was going to be taken away from us and made public in 45 minutes meant that we couldn't reach all of the players and parents, so they had to hear it on social media, which wasn't a good experience, there was plenty of tears.

"A good thing that came from the decision was how the rugby league community supported us. I had calls from Wigan, Warrington, and even some from the other side of the river. As a result, the RFL gave us a two-year probationary licence to get our house in order, and that's what we've done."

The former Rovers star has embraced the challenges he has faced over the past year and was full of praise for his fellow members of staff that joined the club in order to regain their elite licence.

"It's been a fruitful experience, we had some changes in staff as Ben Lazenby joined us and John (Bastian) left. Ben is fantastic,"