Sheffield Wednesday

The programme, aimed at 16-18 year olds, will see the club’s community programme, the charitable arm of Sheffield Wednesday, join up with the Sheffield Eagles to provide young people a unique progression, through Rugby training, into employment or higher education.

Students on the programme will work towards a Level three BTEC extended diploma in sport, the equivalent to three A-levels and will count as UCAS points for University applications.

The programme, which is also in association with Sheffield Hallam University, will see the aspiring Rugby players play at the Performance Centre at Sheffield Wednesday. The club will facilitate the education BTEC course at various venues while the Eagles will deliver expert training sessions to develop skills and better play.

Ricky Hunt, curriculum manager at the Sheffield Wednesday Community Programme, said: “I’m delighted that the community programme has been able to form this unique partnership with the Eagles and we can’t wait to see the students progress through to education or employment. 

“The Sheffield Eagles are a great club who understand the importance of both sport and education and we can’t wait to work with them.

“It’s not only great for Sheffield Wednesday but also for the young people of the community who are set to benefit from the link up.”

Ian Anniss, community, development and education director at the Sheffield Eagles, said: “The Rugby club are very excited about the new education programme with Sheffield Wednesday and like the football club we’re committed to providing expert coaching and training to the young people starting on the course.

“We’re delighted we could make it happen and we look forward to working with the community programme at Sheffield Wednesday.”

The programme is open to any students with a Rugby background league or union or have an interest in the game. 

The open training session for the course will take place at the Hillsborough Arena Sports Association (HASA), on Monday 23rd June 6pm-8pm.