The NSW Waratahs are proud to announce the launch of an innovative Regional Academy Program exclusively dedicated to the development of female rugby talent. This program marks a significant stride towards gender equality and regional rugby excellence, reflecting the organisation's commitment to nurturing the next generation of female rugby stars.
Northern and Western Academies: The NSW Waratahs Regional Academy Program will comprise two distinct academies, catering to young female rugby enthusiasts across Northern and Western New South Wales. These academies will serve as nurturing grounds for aspiring athletes, offering a platform to hone their rugby skills and develop into well-rounded individuals. Thanks to the NSW Positive Rugby Foundation and their Rugby For Good programs, each program will include a thorough mental health and well-being component as well as women's health workshops.
Program Culminating in Games: As part of the program's immersive experience, participants can look forward to competitive fixtures. The academy is planning to host games in late January, allowing young talents to showcase their skills and teamwork in a real match environment.
"The launch of the NSW Waratahs Regional Academy Program for females is a significant milestone in the history of rugby in New South Wales," said Andrew Cleverley, Head of Talent Management at the NSW Waratahs. "We are dedicated to empowering young women across the Northern and Western regions, providing them with access to top-tier coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and a pathway to higher levels of rugby competition."
Expanding Horizons: While this program focuses on the empowerment of female rugby players, the NSW Waratahs have future plans to expand its reach into other regions and include male players. This expansion is a testament to the organization's vision of creating an inclusive and vibrant rugby community for all.
NSW Rugby Union General Manager of Community Rugby, Mark Green said ““This program is an exciting opportunity for Women’s rugby. The growth in Women’s rugby across the State and Internationally has been immense and programs like this complement that growth and demand. We will look to roll out the program to other regions in the near future.”
Expression of Interest for Coaches: To ensure the highest quality coaching, the NSW Waratahs will invite expressions of interest (EOIs) from experienced and passionate coaches who are dedicated to the growth of female rugby. This presents an exciting opportunity for coaches to contribute to the development of the sport and its athletes at the grassroots level. Rugby enthusiasts, potential participants, and communities are encouraged to stay tuned for further updates and announcements.
This program underscores the NSW Waratahs' commitment to inclusivity and excellence within the sport of rugby. By investing in female talent development and setting the stage for future expansions, the NSW Waratahs are driving positive change in the rugby landscape, fostering diversity and growth in the sport.
