Coach Core Wales is GO!
On the 1st October, HRH The Duke of Cambridge launched a Coach Core programme run in conjunction with the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU).
At the launch, he met with the new apprentices while being hosted by former Rugby World Cup winner Josh Lewsey, now Head of Rugby at the WRU and WRU chairman Gareth Davies who captained Wales and toured South Africa with the Lions in 1980. This is the first programme in Wales and there are 12 apprentices.
With financial support from The Hunter Foundation, the WRU programme will be run over a 12-month period in the Cardiff Blues and Newport Gwent Dragons regions, supporting young people aged 18-24. The coaching and mentoring programme will help the young people gain new skills and qualifications in rugby development and coaching, supported by WRU staff and coaches.
“I’ve played rugby since I was 6 and see the apprenticeship as a pathway to influence people’s lives with sport, specifically rugby and increase participation in Wales.”
– Cameron from Neath
I’m 23 and was told at school that I couldn’t play rugby, a game I really love which has inspired me to influence the growth of women’s rugby in Wales.
His Royal Highness met the newly selected apprentices and joined in with the rugby activity at Sport Wales before attending the Wales v Fiji Rugby World Cup match at the Millennium Stadium.
“We are delighted to have received the support of The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry to enable us to set up this exciting new programme. The WRU Coach Core Apprenticeship scheme is a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain new skills and experience within the field of rugby and sports coaching. It will open doors, not only for the apprentices themselves, but also for all those they engage with on a community level during the 12 month programme.”
– WRU chairman Gareth Davies