Academy roadshows prove a smash hit
By Mark Stevens
29/10/19
Exeter Chiefs Academy have been out on the road once again, running a series of rugby roadshows across Devon and Cornwall to promote the good work being carried out by the club across the two counties.
The roadshow concept is a new initiative to engage player, parents and stakeholders with information on a number of topics such as staff introduction, DPP induction, how to be a modern-day sporting parent, the importance of playing multi sports, education, academy pathway and busting myths about the academy.
So far, Bodmin, Penryn, Launceston and Tiverton Rugby Clubs have all hosted roadshows, where the response from attendees has been not only positive, but encouraging moving forward.
The second element to the evenings has been coach education – and the Chiefs have pooled together some of their leading coaches to help pass on their knowledge and experience.
Assistant Academy manager Ricky Pellow, who is also the Chiefs’ skills coach, has been joined by the likes of prop Greg Holmes (Exeter Chiefs & Australia), Julian Salvi (Exeter Chiefs defence coach), Marek Churcher (Academy Coach) and Keith Brooking (Academy Coach) in delivering some of the educational sessions.
Exeter Chiefs Academy Manager, Rob Gibson, said “The roadshows have been a fantastic opportunity for the Chiefs Academy to get out within the region and engage with aspiring players, parents and coaches. The talent in players, as well as coaches, is extremely encouraging within our patch, and if we can a little bit to support the game at grassroots level, it will pay dividends to rugby within the area.
“The Academy staff have been fantastic in not only coming up with the initiative, but their enthusiasm and expertise has been very well received. It is certainly something we will look to grow in the future. For me, I think the myth-busters part of the presentation has given the Chiefs the opportunity to get closer to the community and raised the understanding in what is a complicated pathway.
“With so many youngsters having the dream of being a professional rugby player, the reality is that only a few will actually make the grade. Therefore, the importance of enjoying the game, and having a focus on their education, is critical and the message was well received, especially by the parents.”
If you have areas of interest you feel our coaches can assist with, or you have any questions about our coach education opportunities, then please contact our Academy Coach Education Officer, Ruairí Cushion on [email protected]
