Albion announce two pathways to support youth rugby in the ocean city
In the build-up to their 150th anniversary, Plymouth Albion is proud to announce two distinct pathways for the key under 18 age group. With both an educational and club-based pathway, we are excited to be able to cater to a demographic that is a key target area for player retention as the transition from junior to senior rugby takes place.
Albion preparation takes a boost with college connection and Sharks foundation
Plymouth Albion’s resurgence as part of the Project 150 initiative has continued with the signing of an ambitious new partnership with City College Plymouth.
Aligning with the College, Albion Head of Community, Dan Pullinger has agreed to lead the coaching with the assistance of another Albion senior player as Backs coach.
The deal takes life on Wednesday 6th July at The Brickfields from 11-2 with an open training day for aspiring players with the interest of studying at City College Plymouth.
The day will include a session on technical rugby skills, a games session along with a strength & conditioning introduction.
Speaking of the link-up, Dan Pullinger said “I’m delighted to get this link over the line and I must offer a big thanks to Mark Channing and Liam Stevens for their help in getting things agreed. I’m hopeful we can get a decent turn out on the 6th as we look to build a rugby programme that Plymouth can be proud of”.
Echoing the positivity, Mark Channing from the college added “The College is really excited to partner with Plymouth Albion on creating our own Academy Rugby Team. This gives boys aged 16-18 a great opportunity to combine full-time education with expert rugby coaching from Dan and the Albion Community Team, whilst representing the college in a Southwest College Rugby League. Enrolled players will be entitled to strength and conditioning training and injury rehab therapy through the college, as well as having exclusive access to skills sessions at Plymouth Albion.”
Aspirant players are advised to fill in the City College Open Day booking form here – https://forms.gle/2dahzqR2JUuj8w5N9
Plymouth Albion U18 Colts link-up heralds exciting times ahead
A Plymouth-based U18 Colts rugby team, who only formed last year has forged a new and exciting link–up with Plymouth’s Premier rugby team Plymouth Albion RFC.
Albion Sharks have capped a successful trophy-winning season as under 17’s playing in an under-18 competition, by joining the Community based National league one club and heading the ambitious clubs drive to provide a youth set-up accessible for all within the City.
Formed last year from, and still under the stewardship of OPM RFC and DHSOB, Albion Sharks came together when Colts numbers were low at both clubs, leading to a team being formed between the two clubs and enabling some of those players to stay within the game and enjoy their rugby.
The new link-up will see Plymouth Albion offering pre-season and ongoing coaching throughout next season, with closer ties to the club and facilities itself and the ability for those players with the required skill level and aptitude to train with and learn from some of the City’s leading players.
“It’s a great opportunity,” said Albion Sharks coach Justin Bishop. “We have a superb bunch of lads who, despite their two club origins last year came together as one and really enjoyed their rugby as a team. Without a doubt, this opportunity has arisen because of their hard work and dedication to want to make it work – together with the help and understanding of both parent clubs’ committees”.
With last season culminating in a win at the Devon Bowl Final, Albion Sharks will be looking to build on what is already a good quality group of players. Albion Sharks backs coach Chris Mervyn stated however that the blossoming team is still on the lookout for new additions. “As we found out last year there are real pressures on numbers within colts rugby. Many players simply stop after school, go to a college that just doesn’t have the provision, or into jobs and that’s a shame as many of these players either don’t return to the game at all or miss out on years of rugby when they do return,” said Chris. “They are a really friendly and talented group and we’d like to push on as a team and get the players to be the best version of themselves they can be before the transition to adult rugby next year. If you are a player who’d like to be part of it then please get in touch.”
To find out more about Albion Sharks Colts please message the team via Facebook by searching @albionsharks
We’re delighted to have you at Albion guys!