Torn Hammy
Johnnie Wallace (23)
This "penalty" is the same as that applied to the "early bloomer" who makes Aust Schoolboys and is parachuted into Colts 1 in their fisrt year out of school.
Given that the average kid only does 2 years in Colts (under 20's) (as an 18 turning 19 yo , and 19 turning 20 yo), this is an anti-poaching 6 point "penalty" for a late bloomer who goes straight into Colts 1 first year out of school and then does so well for that selected club that they become attractive to other clubs.
It kind of reinforces that the initial Colts registration is actually 2 year decision (for the rock stars - early or late blooming variety).
I'm thinking about the good player that is very unhappy about his particular chosen club. Could be the coach, the position he has to play, the expected training, lack of fun or just a bad culture at the club. The 6 pp penalty really prevents them from moving.
Yet if a player is coached, developed and mentored from age 6 to 18 by say Gordon, he can then go to Norths Colts unencumbered by any extra player points.
And if a certain club identifies an English rep or NZ rep rock star, it only costs them 4 pp.
There are no 'penalty' points in grade when a player changes clubs. So when an unhappy colt ends up with 2 more player points than an Oz schoolboy team mate, I think it is very harsh.