Wigan have rewarded six of their young guns with full-time contracts.

Hot prospects Ben Kavanagh, Thomas Coyle, Lee Mossop, Nicky Stanton, and Sam Tomkins helped Warriors' senior academy side win the league, while Joel Tomkins impressed after spending the second half of 2007 on loan at Widnes Vikings.

Coach Brian Noble said: "It shows that the club continues to look towards the future. Wigan has a great history of producing talented young players and these six are further proof of the quality youth development structures that are in place.

"A huge benefit for these youngsters in becoming full-time professionals is training alongside the first team squad, gaining invaluable experience from being around the likes of Sean O'Loughlin, Richard Mathers, Trent Barrett, Pat Richards and Phil Bailey."

Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan said: "A key part of our strategy for the future is to give young players who have proven their worth and their commitment to the club the opportunity to progress to the first team."