Halifax Panthers Academy partnership with Calderdale College has been further developed receiving dual development academy status, making Calderdale one of only nine colleges in the country to have the accreditation.
The Dual Development Academy status means that the Halifax Panthers Academy is now open to both women and men looking to pursue the sport and offering a clear pathway into the senior set ups.
Andy Holleyhead, Rugby Development Officer at Calderdale College, said: “It’s a challenging but exciting year for the Halifax Panthers Rugby Academy, where we are collectively working towards excellence in skills training both on and off the pitch.
“The variety of course options available at the college has enabled students to have a more focused trajectory to employment, so we are finding students are more engaged and making the most of all college opportunities.”
Halifax Panthers boss, Simon Grix, commented: “The rugby academy provides an excellent pathway for late developers into the professional game.
“With a high standard of on-field coaching and physical development, college performance is monitored closely with the hope of unearthing the next rugby star.”
Managing Director of the Halifax Panthers, David Grayson, added: “This accreditation is testimony to the hard work done by both Calderdale College and Halifax Panthers over a number of years now.
“The recent introduction of being able to study for a trade as well as a sporting qualification is a game changing unique selling point, and this has been reflected in the growing numbers of student participation.”
