Connacht Launch Elite Rugby Scholars Programme

This strategic partnership will open up the opportunity for young rugby players to come and play age-grade rugby with Connacht whilst studying for their Leaving Certificate at Yeats College.

The first of its kind in the country, this scholarship is ideally suited to students that cherish a dual ambition of playing at the highest professional levels in rugby while, at the same time, creating a Leaving Cert that will give them significant opportunity to excel academically and enjoy a professional career once their ambitions in rugby have been achieved.

As part of the scholarship, students would embark on a one or two-year Leaving Cert programme which would have a unique individualised timetable, allowing the student to achieve, agreed sporting, academic and fitness milestones.

Each day, students would be able to attend class while maintaining their obligations with the Connacht sub-Academy system.

With student housing included, the development rugby players will be based in Galway city centre – studying at the private co-educational day school at the state-of-the-art campus on College Road whilst developing their rugby skills at the Sportsground.

Connacht Rugby’s coaching development manager Eamonn Molloy was the driving force behind the initiative and said: “At Connacht Rugby we recognise the need for players to have a balanced lifestyle and we strive to develop individuals who will be successful both in their rugby careers and beyond.

“We are delighted that Yeats College share that vision which has driven this innovative partnership.”

Terry Fahy, Principal of Yeats College, added: “We at Yeats College are delighted to be part of this exciting initiative with Connacht Rugby. The programme is unique in second level education as it strategically fosters academic and sporting excellence amongst young people.

“In many respects, the modern world of professional rugby and motivated education are very similar. They embrace a shared culture of empowering people through work ethic and self belief in the pursuit of excellence.”

For more information on the Connacht Rugby Elite Rugby Scholars Programme, please email elitescholars@cbirfu.com or call the Connacht Rugby office on tel: 091 561 568.