Lisburn Rugby Club are delighted to announce their plans to launch a Rugby Academy set-up for young people aged 11 to 18. Following confirmation from Ulster Rugby officials, Lisburn will be fielding four development sides for the 2014-15 season at Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 and Under 18 level.
New coaching structures have been put in place for the incoming season with work on recruitment and planning well under way. Speaking on the launch of Lisburn’s first Rugby Academy, Youth Rugby coordinator Mark Hill said;
“This an exciting opportunity for us as a club, but also for young people in the Lisburn area. During the 2013-14 season, we recognised the demand for a rugby pathway for those leaving our thriving Mini Section at Primary School age through to Senior level at the age of 18/19. Given the success of Ulster Rugby over the past number of seasons, and the increased exposure of the sport as a whole, the need to modernise our approach as a club was very evident. With the launch of an Academy set-up, we feel we can provide an environment for those entering into the sport for the first time through to those that are seeking Elite development and Representative Honours both at Youth and at Senior level long-term”.
Lisburn Rugby Club can confirm the following coaching set-up for the 2014-15 season within their new Academy structure:
Under 18 Level – Andrew Postlethwaite & Michael Press
Under 16 Level – Mark Hill & David Harkness
Under 14 Level – Thomas Thompson & Ashley Gilford
Under 12 Level – Wayne Hughes & Scott Hughes
Mark Hill added;
“We have put together a team of hard-working individuals who are driven and focused on bringing the best out of our different age groups. For us as a club it is primarily about participation and enjoyment but we will bring a professional mindset to the table, providing players with access to physiotherapy treatment, strength and conditioning work and nutritional information so that they develop as rugby players, but also as individuals and ultimately ambassadors for Lisburn. As a club we will work closely with local schools and ensure participation levels in rugby reach an all time high, particularly at traditionally non-rugby playing schools.”
More information on the new Academy will be released in the coming weeks with a series of events and information evenings planned. To register your interest as a parent or player, please contact Mark on 028 92 619318 or via email to lisburnrfc@gmail.com
