Bridgwater & Taunton College has become the home of the Bristol Rugby Player Development Group, with the College becoming the host venue for the very best young and aspiring rugby players to train.

This partnership provides a clear pathway for aspiring young players who could become part of Team BTC Rugby, then compete for our new University team (University Centre Somerset) whilst still keeping close ties with the Bristol Rugby Academy.

Sam Reilly, Head of Sport, Outdoor Education and Public Services said,

“This is a unique partnership that has a student-centred approach, providing a clear pathway for Rugby Development from 13 – 21 years of age.  Our vision as a college is to develop world-class opportunities for our students and this partnership allows students to access the best quality of education, twinned with a first-class Rugby set-up.  Already this year we have had Jack Ballard, Eoghan Westhoff and Eryk Luczka represent Somerset U18s and this partnership is only going to strengthen the quality of Rugby across Somerset.”

The partnership will see Bristol Rugby supporting Team BTC with the delivery of training, strength and conditioning provision, support and guidance and guest sessions/lectures from coaches and players.  Students at Bridgwater & Taunton College will also have access to Performance Analyst software, Sport Science support and a Sports Therapist to support rehabilitation from injury.

Bristol Academy Manager, Mike Hall, added,

“We are extremely excited to be working with Bridgwater & Taunton College and for them to host our Southern Player Development Group. We will be looking to support Sam, Mason and the rest of the coaching staff to allow them to provide the very best experience for students. We are also excited about offering the students from Bridgwater & Taunton College a pathway into U18 Academy rugby and the potential to work with more aspiring rugby players within our local area.”

To find out more about Team BTC Rugby, potential sport scholarships available and studying at Bridgwater & Taunton College please contact Mason Galloway by email at gallowaym@btc.ac.uk  or by phone on 01278 455464 (Ext 1887).