Rugby League: Kiwis train eyes on biggest prize

By PETER JESSUP

The Kiwis will share in a substantial part of the Rugby League World Cup first prize of 400,000 pound ($1.37 million) if they can lift the trophy in November.

The 23-man squad, most of whom attended the first cup preparation camp in Auckland at the weekend, are on a retainer with win bonuses that offer them a significant payday.

But money was not in the forefront of their minds. First there is the small matter of revenge for the 0-52 loss to Australia in the Anzac test. And there is the pride that says they are a better team and should show it.

The squad had motivational talks from sports scientists and psychologists, from the NZ Rugby League management and from their coaches and trainers.

A nutritionist gave tips on handling the demands of three games in eight days. The trainers gave each man a specific programme and let them know what fitness, fat-fold and other levels must be met.

The medics talked about injury and banned substances. Team manager Gary Cooksley covered discipline on and off the field.

There were no footballs involved. The aim was to introduce players to the programme the NZRL believes will bring the cup back from England.

Chief executive Gary Allcock said the focus of the camp was to explain details ranging from employment to travel, training to medicals, so all were familiar with and motivated towards the campaign. "And they're very motivated."

Graeme Norton and Gary Kemble, who will prepare the team in Auckland before departure to England, where head coach Frank Endacott takes up the reins, went through the game plan and made each player aware of what is expected.

Almost all have tickets to events at the Sydney Olympics - one reason the camp was held this early.

They will not meet again until after the Games, with the next camp in Auckland from October 3-5 to open the field work.

Absent at the weekend were English-based Robbie and Henry Paul and Richie Blackmore, and Parramatta fullback David Vaeliki.

The latter was admitted to hospital in Sydney two days ago when a boil went septic and caused blood poisoning, but he will be well again within days.