Your Academy Journey

You’re a shining STAR.

If you’re here right now, it’s likely that you’ve either been nominated to join our academy, or your coach/teacher is considering making a nomination. This means your talent has been recognised and you’ve demonstrated you have the potential to play at an elite level of rugby. Whilst this is extremely exciting, it’s vital to prepare yourself for what to expect. 

Are you prepared?

The academy programme is designed to prepare you for elite level rugby, meaning it requires a lot of commitment from both an effort and time point of view. If you’ve been told about a nomination, or your coach is considering nominating you, it’s important to consider whether you’re really ready for the intensity of the academy. Find out what we’re looking for below.

Academy Player Criteria

Nominations and Assessments.

 Entry into the academy is by nomination only. Once a nomination has been received, players are invited to attend assessment days, where their skills, effort and attitude is assessed. If we identify a player has the potential to play at an elite level, we make an academy offer to them around 7 days post assessment. 

We have very specific criteria for entry into the academy and not everyone is offered a place. We know this can be disheartening, but a no isn’t a forever no, it’s a ‘not right now’. We actively encourage all players who have received a no to review our criteria and work at developing themselves in line with this before the next assessment period.

Talent identification

Joining the academy.

All those who shine during our assessment period are invited to join the academy programme. It’s important to know that not everyone’s starting point is the same. You’ll join the relevant team based on your age and ability. Take a look at how our academy is structured to find out more.

Academy Structure

Your commitment to the programme

The whole aim of the academy is to prepare you for an elite level of rugby by helping you become the best version of yourself physically and mentally. For this to be possible, your effort and commitment needs to match that of our team. Take a look at what we expect from our players here.

Training & Commitments
Coaching and Development

FAQ’s

  • Being nominated means a coach or teacher has spotted your potential. It’s your chance to train at a higher level, develop your skills, and show what you can do during trials and training sessions.

  • It’s important to prepare both physically and mentally. Ensure you keep attending club training regularly so you can work on core rugby skills (passing, catching, tackling). Nutrition is vital too, so eat well, hydrate, and get plenty of rest.

  • Assessments typically include:

    • A briefing from coaches

    • Skills assessments and drills

    • Fitness and conditioning checks

    • Small-sided games to show decision-making and teamwork

    • Observation and feedback from coaches

  • You can view our specific criteria here.

  • No, selection is competitive. Every player has the opportunity to learn and improve, whether selected or not. Not being selected is a chance to focus on development and try again.

  • You should always communicate with coaches about any injuries. Most injuries will prevent you from taking part in assessment. Your safety and long-term development come first so we will likely look at an alternative way to assess your skills.

  • Parents are welcome to attend all sessions, but the focus in on you the player.

  • Training schedules vary by age group and programme. You’ll have a mix of on-field sessions, gym sessions, and match play to support development.