Wales Rugby League and Coleg y Cymoedd launch new Rugby League Academy

Coleg y Cymoedd’s list of sports academies grows with the launch of a brand new Rugby League Academy based at the Ystrad Mynach campus.

Would-be Rugby League stars of the future are being given a chance to stake their claim to a place on the programme that combines training with a full time education.

The Academy, which will open its doors for the first group of learners this September, will be run by Mark Jones, and will offer players the opportunity to develop on and off the pitch by balancing daily coaching sessions with full time study.

Following the success of Rugby union academies offered by Coleg y Cymoedd, learners will be able to study BTEC Level 2 and Level 3 Sport qualifications as part of the programme.

This Academy has come to fruition through the commitment of the two partners to provide an environment for talented Welsh Rugby League Players to receive both educational qualifications and the highest standard of training.

The new academy further strengthens the sports growing popularity in South Wales and will provide Wales Rugby League and academy players with excellent training facilities that will include gymnasiums, all-weather training pitches and grass pitches.

It is hoped that the Academy, will considerably improve the standards of the players at under 18s level who will inevitably be the future for club and international Rugby League in Wales.

Jonathan Morgan, Faculty Director of Sport at Coleg y Cymoedd, said: “Coleg y Cymoedd’s excellent sporting facilities made this partnership an exciting and viable option for the college and Wales Rugby League.

“We’re very excited about this new prospect and the opportunity to give players pathway into the professional game, with a sound education. The Academy concept promotes high standards and aspirations for the students and we are delighted to be involved in it.

Mark Jones, National Development Manager at Wales Rugby League, said “The academy is a fantastic opportunity to expose the players to the demands of professional sport. Each player will be set individual development targets to improve their physical conditioning, skills and tactical awareness in a professional environment”.

On 16th April, Coleg y Cymoedd will host an Advice Day. The Advice Day will run from 4pm to 7pm and will provide an opportunity for prospective learners and their families to explore the college’s facilities and learn more about available courses.

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