A new partnership has been launched between Bath Rugby and Bath College to help with the development of promising young female rugby players in the local area.
The Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE) and BTEC Level 3 Sports Coaching and Development Programme will be jointly delivered by the rugby club and college.
The role of the programme 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 game in the region and mirrors the 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 16-18 and forms a milestone in the club’s commitment to female rugby through increasing participation and creating a sustainable pathway that will both support the launch of a professional women’s team.
Bath Rugby Chief Executive Tarquin McDonald emphasised the importance of the Academy to the development of the club’s women and girls’ strategic roadmap.
He said: “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 will complement the partnership already in place with the University of Bath Women’s Team.
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 Principal & 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.”
