The first of its kind for the county, a new Rugby Academy has been launched to develop the sporting talent and aspirations of young players.
The new Rugby Academy is the creation of Lincoln College in partnership with Championship league team, Nottingham Rugby, and Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Derbyshire Rugby Football Union (NLDRFU).
Enrolling from September 2022, the Academy will provide 16 to 18-year-old male rugby players with a unique study programme composed of academic qualifications from Lincoln College and valuable enrichment opportunities from Nottingham Rugby.
The students can choose to study for a BTEC sports qualification from a wide range of sport-related courses, including but not limited to Sport and Exercise Science, Sports Coaching and Development, Sports Coaching and PE, Sports Therapy and more.
They will then spend five hours per week training with Nottingham Rugby – one of the top 25 teams in the UK – who will offer the students expert coaching and further work experience opportunities at the club, such as within their sport science or analysis departments.
Andy McGill, Sports Lecturer at Lincoln College, said: “We are exceedingly excited about the launch of this new initiative and to supporting young, talented, and local rugby players to be the absolute best version of themselves.
“We can offer them a first-class education, alongside a holistic, player-centred rugby development programme, working with a top team like Nottingham Rugby.
“We really hope that this programme helps to raise the standard and profile of rugby within the local area, especially supporting the transition from youth rugby to the adult game.”
Paul Taylor, General Manager at Nottingham Rugby, added: “We’re delighted to be involved in this new partnership with Lincoln College and NLDRFU.
“Nottingham Rugby is passionate about developing young talent and doing everything we can to support local clubs. These are exciting times ahead and we’re looking forward to where we can take the project.”
Tim Wilbraham, Head of Age Grade Rugby at NLDRFU, welcomes the partnership.
He said: “This is a really great opportunity for young people and local rugby clubs. The cooperation between Lincoln College and Nottingham Rugby Club should enhance the knowledge and skills of students who love the game of rugby and equip them to use its unique benefits and ethos in their future careers.
“They will graduate to become great leaders and ambassadors for the game.”
Developments for expanding the academy are in discussion, including the potential of launching a female rugby academy in the near future.
To register your interest in the Rugby Academy Open Evening or to find out more, you can email [email protected]
