Grassroots rugby union has received a boost in Central Queensland, with Super Rugby franchise the Melbourne Rebels forming a partnership with The Rockhampton Grammar School.
The partnership will help provide opportunities for talented players to develop their skills further and reach their full potential while being based in a regional centre.
The RGS campus will host clinics and camps, while Melbourne Rebels staff will visit RGS throughout the year to support the programme and provide highly valued rugby union expertise to help further develop the region’s young players.
The Melbourne Rebels will also mentor RGS coaches and trainers.
RGS Headmaster Dr Phillip Moulds said this partnership allowed talented young rugby union players to remain in a regional centre while at the same time being mentored and guided by a leading rugby union franchise in the Melbourne Rebels.
“This is an exciting opportunity for the boys and girls who play rugby union in Central Queensland,” Dr Moulds said.
“RGS has long supported rugby union and looks forward to further strengthening these ties.
“The School continues to provide playing pathways for our students, and this partnership will broaden further skill development opportunities.
“RGS thanks the Melbourne Rebels for their support of this partnership and welcomes their vision to build rugby union in Central Queensland further.”
Melbourne Rebels General Manager of Rugby Nick Stiles said the Melbourne Rebels were excited to partner with The Rockhampton Grammar School in developing pathways for the talented players of the region to continue to grow and chase their rugby dreams.
Mr Stiles said another important element of the partnership was mentoring RGS coaches and strength and conditioning staff.
“I know the Melbourne Rebels coaches and staff are looking forward to this interaction and look forward to helping grow and evolve the rugby programme at RGS both on and off the field,’’ Mr Stiles said.
“Having played my first rugby at the old Rugby Park back in the 80’s, I fully understand the quality and the hard-working rugby community that is in the Rockhampton region, and the Melbourne Rebels look forward to this exciting partnership with RGS.”
