Bath Rugby and Bath College have formed an exciting new partnership to assist in the development of promising young female rugby players in the Bath Rugby catchment area.
The BTEC Level 3 Programme – which they will be delivering together – aims to provide an outstanding rugby and academic development programme. The role of which is to identify and develop talented young rugby players and support them to achieve their potential, both on and off the pitch.
The partnership provides the first female pathway to the elite game in the region, and mirrors the well-established and successful existing partnerships that Bath Rugby has for boys with Beechen Cliff and various other independent schools.
The programme targets female rugby players in Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire between the ages of 16-19 and forms a major milestone in the club’s commitment to female rugby through increasing participation and creating a sustainable pathway which will both support the launch of a professional women’s team.
Bath Rugby’s Chief Executive, Tarquin McDonald emphasises the importance of the Academy to the development of the club’s women and girls’ strategic roadmap: “The formation of Bath Rugby Women’s Academy is the start of a long-term commitment with Bath College to create a best-in-class Women’s Academy and facilitate the growth of the female game throughout the region.
“Providing opportunities for girls to further their education and rugby careers is imperative if we are to see the women’s game thrive.
“Our Academy will be a springboard for girls looking to explore a career in rugby, with the hope that many will progress from this programme to the pinnacle of the sport.”
The new partnership compliments the partnership already in place with University of Bath Women’s Team and offers a clear development opportunity to the best young female talent in the region.
Bath Rugby’s Rugby Development Lead and RFU Level 3 qualified coach Maria Crowfoot will oversee all rugby-led aspects of the programme alongside her commitment as Head Coach of the University of Bath Women’s Team.
Bath College’ Principle & CEO, Jayne Davis, commented, “At a time when collaborations have never been more important, we are so pleased to enter into this long-term partnership with Bath Rugby.
“It combines two aspects of the college we are very proud of: sport and quality of education. To have the opportunity to further the sporting careers and education of young women through this exciting route is something we are all looking forward to.
“I can’t wait to see the names and faces of successful female rugby players leading the way in the future.”
To find out more about the programme, click here.