Program
There are a number of areas that the RugbyWA Academy will cover. Ultimately, while we look to produce better and eventually elite players, we will work in the following areas. At the same time there is extensive focus on personal development in areas not necessarily directly specifically to rugby. Most Academy training sessions take place late afternoon/early evenings.
- Skills & tactical knowledge
Core skills are at the fundamental heart of the Academy. In addition, position specific skills are also worked at. Players are also taught to understand team systems in both attack and defence. We have a wide resource of coaching expertise, including regular contact with John Mitchell and his coaching staff. The aim here is to maximise the player’s ability in areas of skill, technical and tactical knowledge.
- Strength and Conditioning
The Academy Program will produce up-to-date training schedules providing training options to most effectively accommodate all players. Each of the major strands contains a basic component that is common to all players and a specific component, which reflects the positional requirements and/or attempts to remedy personal deficiencies. Each of the players will receive a detailed written program prepared specifically for his needs.
Each player will be given a training program, which will cover a twelve month period. The squad members will complete 10 – 12 hours of strength and conditioning per week, throughout the whole year, in accordance with the National Models of development and under the supervision of the RugbyWA Academy Strength and Conditioning Coach. These sessions focus on all aspects of physical preparation including speed, agility, strength, power, aerobic and anaerobic conditioning and recovery.
Players will be monitored for their physical development throughout the year, through testing in accordance with the National Testing Protocols. The testing will be followed up at regular intervals during the year. The RugbyWA Academy S&C Coach will work directly with each member of the squad. He will train and monitor the squad members on an individual basis, aiming to have face-to-face contact with each squad member on a daily basis.
· Personal Development
Aside from rugby, other areas of a player’s development are catered for. Assistance is given by or Careers and Education officer in helping players with chosen courses of study across a range of areas, career guidance and job opportunities are explored in order to give the player the best chance to succeed as a professional rugby player while not neglecting other important aspects. We also work with RUPA [RUGBY UNION PLAYERS ASSOCIATION] in terms of educating and preparing players for the life of a professional sportsman. This is done across a range of topics that will benefit a future rugby professional. Academy players are expected to continue with their studies be they University or TAFE. If not, they would be expected to hold down some form of employment.
Academy Match Program
Players will be given the opportunity to play at a higher level during the year. A few apprentices have represented the Emirates Western Force this season. Some players might well be picked for the Western Force ‘A’ team which will play matches against touring teams and participate in development tours. We are currently working on putting together a viable match program for Academy players for future years.
Regular rugby will still be with the Academy member's club on a weekly basis. They will still train with clubs in the evening, though the Academy program continues and remains within the framework of hours as set out by RUPA. Member's might also be selected for WA rep teams at U20 or other levels.
