The strength and conditioning coach for the Newcastle Knights Harold Matthews and SG Ball satellite program believes the 2017 Upper Hunter intakes – Zac Miller (Aberdeen), Singleton duo Kobie Davis and Andrew Lambkin, Brock Greacen (Denman) and Jack Gunton (Scone) – have what it takes to reach the dizzying heights of the NRL.

The quintet follows in the footsteps of Ben Talty (Denman), Jock Madden (Scone), Tom Baker, Davis, James Bradley (Singleton), Fletcher Baker and Paul Dengate (Muswellbrook), who went through the same process in 2016.

“We started the initiative last year,” explained Wilton, who’s assisted by Sean Tanner.

“The guys train three days a week but, every Monday, we meet here in Aberdeen.

“The other two sessions take place in Newcastle on Wednesday and Friday.

“By having it [once] in the Upper Hunter, it alleviates the pressure on the parents and the kids.

“It cuts down travel and fatigue, and helps the boys with their recovery.

“The satellite program also takes place on the Central Coast and North Coast.

“Each of the local lads has been hand-picked for their promise – they’re prepared to make sacrifices, too.

“Our [training] stints are scheduled between 5pm and 7pm.

“But, all five of them turn up at 4pm to learn as much as they can. 

“There are a lot of gifted kids in the region.  

“However, the Knights feel Zac, Kobie, Andrew, Brock and Jack can ‘make it’.”

Wilton, himself, said he’d be surprised if “we don’t read more about the quintet in the future”.

“I think they’ve got what it takes,” he admitted.

“Zac does a lot of extras with me.

“His willingness is one of his biggest assets.

“Kobie’s been in the system since the [Knights] Chargers.

“He’s committed and keen to absorb as much as he can.

“Andrew boasts a ton of potential.

“He’s got a big engine – and gives 110 per cent.

“Brock was noticed a while ago, through the Chargers and the High Performance Unit.

“He’s a lock/second-rower who pushes himself hard.  

“As for Jack, he’s new.

“And, for someone who fractured his hip, he has been going unreal.

“He’s definitely a ‘good one’.”