Canberra Raiders Strengthen French Ties at Annual Scholarship Camp

The Canberra Raiders have formalised their commitment to international recruitment and youth development, hosting the 2026 edition of their annual Scholarship Camp.

The four-day initiative, which honours the legacy of the late recruitment guru Peter Mulholland, brought together 19 elite prospects from across Queensland, New South Wales, and France to the club’s high-performance hub in Bruce.

A focal point of the 2026 intake was French junior Edgar Geisler, a standout from Dragons Saint-Georges d’Orques in Montpellier. Geisler’s participation marks a strategic move by the Raiders to solidify their pipeline into the French market, following the club’s successful history of integrating European talent.

During the camp, Geisler and his cohorts were embedded in the “Raider Way,” observing NRL training sessions and receiving direct mentorship from Head Coach Ricky Stuart.

Strategic Pathways and Recruitment Legacy

The scholarship program serves as a vital identification tool for the Raiders, allowing the organisation to monitor high-potential athletes without disrupting their current schooling or family lives. For many of the participants, more than half of whom had never visited the nation’s capital, the camp included recognisable tours of Seiffert Oval, GIO Stadium, and the NSWRL HQ.

The camp’s structure is built upon the foundations laid by Peter Mulholland, who was instrumental in the club’s 2019 Grand Final appearance. By targeting regional hubs like Cairns, Mackay, and Rockhampton, alongside international markets, the Raiders are ensuring long-term roster depth outside of the traditional Sydney heartlands.

The Raiders confirmed they will continue to facilitate opportunities for international players like Geisler, viewing the French Rugby League connection as a key growth area.

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