The NSW Rugby Union Youth Academy Program is set to return this summer, bigger and better than ever, with Bathurst again confirmed as the host city for the competition games.
After two years of overwhelmingly positive results, the 2025/26 edition of the program will expand to include boys teams for the first time, reflecting the program’s continued evolution and growing impact across New South Wales.
Following the success of last season’s finale in Bathurst, the central western NSW city will again welcome players, coaches, and supporters for three action-packed days of rugby from 16–18 January 2025.
The venue's high-quality playing surfaces, excellent amenities, and warm hospitality made it a standout choice, and NSW Rugby is excited to return.
“The Youth Academy is about more than just developing talent, it’s about building character, supporting wellbeing, and connecting communities through the values of Rugby For Good,” said NSW Rugby Union CEO Peter Murphy.
“We’ve seen incredible success over the past two years, and the addition of boys teams this year is a natural and exciting evolution. We’re proud to continue growing this initiative and giving young athletes from across NSW the opportunity to thrive both on and off the field.”
This year’s program will see an adjustment to the age groups, shifting to U15s and U17s to better align with player development stages and school/club commitments.
The girls’ program will continue with the three regional, Hunter/Central Coast, Northern NSW & South Western NSW and three metropolitan academies, Sydney North, Sydney West & Sydney South East.
While the boys’ program will feature the three regional academies only in year one, allowing even more players from regional communities to experience high-level development, competition, and connection.
The full schedule includes:
- Sunday, 14 December 2025 – Statewide Orientation & Induction Day (via regional hubs)
- 14–16 January 2026 – Regional Academy Camps (2 nights in each location)
- 16–18 January 2026 – Academy Games Weekend in Bathurst
The Youth Academy is a fully immersive program that includes not only on-field development but also strength and conditioning, mental wellbeing support, and leadership development, ensuring players are supported as both athletes and young people.
Linda Hutton, NSW Rugby Union Female Participation Manager, highlighted the importance of continuity and visibility in the girls’ space.
“This program has been game-changing for our young female players—giving them access to consistent 15-a-side rugby, quality coaching, and leadership experiences they simply wouldn’t otherwise have in regional areas.
Seeing the standard of rugby and the growth of these girls over the last two years has been incredibly rewarding.”
With the program growing in both size and reach, NSW Rugby Union is now calling for applications from suitably qualified coaches and team managers to help lead the next generation of Waratahs.
These are voluntary roles with a strong focus on development, leadership, and regional engagement.
Interested in applying? Click the link below to view the position description and apply to be part of this exciting initiative: https://form.jotform.com/251678217980063
With Bathurst confirmed, new age groups introduced, and the addition of boys' teams across all regional academies, the 2025/26 Youth Academy promises to be the most exciting chapter yet in this trailblazing development pathway.
Stay tuned for more updates and announcements!!
