Macclesfield College has partnered with Macclesfield Rugby Union FC to provide young people with the opportunity to study whilst playing rugby.

The college, on Park lane, announced the collaboration open to all teenagers of the local area.

The Rugby Academy, which is open to 16-19-year-olds, is now taking applications for those wanting to start their Level 3 Sports Coaching and Development qualification in September 2022.

This latest sporting addition will complement the College's already successful suite of academies in Football and Golf.

The Academy will be led by Macclesfield RUFC's general manager and senior lead coach, Andy Appleyard.

Andy explained: "This is a really exciting development for Macclesfield and I can't wait to get started. We can harness young people's passion for rugby, developing their technical playing ability alongside instilling the values of hard work, respect and discipline.

"These are key employability skills, and combined with a nationally-recognised qualification in sport, will provide a great foundation for progression onto University or employment. With only 25 places available, we expect demand to be high and we are looking forward to meeting our prospective learners at the trials in November."

Principal and chief executive, Rachel Kay, adds:

"The academy model has been very successful for our students who receive high quality teaching at college combined with professional, industry-led coaching and enrichment activities. At the Rugby Academy, this will involve playing in a competitive game and two training sessions a week.

"Professional sport offers a wide range of varied careers so it's great to be able to offer the

new Rugby Academy, working with our local club.

"Andy will be coaching our students and he

has a wealth of experience in professional coaching at the highest level so it's a great

opportunity for them to work with him and gain the skills and qualifications for a career in

sport."

Trial dates are on November 18 and December 9 5.30pm – 6.30pm at Macclesfield Rugby Club.

The academy is currently only open to boys - however - if there is significant interest and the academy is a success there will be the chance for a girls incarnation in the future.

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