Myerscough announce extension of innovative community rugby partnership

Following the success of last year’s initiative, this renewed sponsorship ensures that young players in the Garstang area can keep benefiting from top-quality coaching and playing opportunities.

A major aspect of this ongoing partnership is the invaluable experience it provides for Myerscough College Rugby Studies students. As part of their course, students will once again gain hands-on coaching experience by leading after-school rugby sessions at Garstang Community Academy.

This real-world application of their studies enhances both their learning and the development of the young players they mentor.

Phill Mills, Foundation Director at the Fylde Rugby Community Foundation, expressed - “We’re pleased to continue our partnership with Myerscough College. Rugby is more than just a game, it teaches discipline, teamwork, and respect.

‘’With Myerscough’s ongoing support, we can keep providing opportunities for young people to discover and embrace rugby, ensuring a pathway from school to local clubs and even to further education at Myerscough.”

Moreover, this partnership provides a clear pathway to further education for Garstang Community Academy children at Myerscough College, enriching their educational prospects and offering avenues to explore their passion for rugby at an advanced level.

Chris Stabler, Lecturer in Rugby at Myerscough College, said: ‘’We’re delighted to be part of this fantastic initiative.

‘’The scheme is proving to be a resounding success, and provides rugby playing opportunities, and high quality coaching, for 11-16 year olds in the Garstang area and beyond.

‘’Our students are excited to provide extra-curricular rugby training sessions at Garstang Community Academy and they should prove very popular, to both regular and experienced players and those trying it for the first time.

‘’In return for giving up their time, our Myerscough rugby students are then rewarded with valuable coaching experience, in a school environment, and hopefully we’ll see some pupils choosing to study with us, be that on a rugby course or any other, in the years to come.’’

The programme's emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility is paramount as it introduces rugby to children who may not have experienced it before. The Foundation remains committed to nurturing a lifelong passion for rugby, contributing to the sport's growth and accessibility.