New Academy is launched

The Academy under 18s recently attended a strength and conditioning course at CrossFit Varangian Lisburn. Under the tuition of coach Tomek Marynowski the players learnt the basic principles behind weightlifting to improve performance targeted specifically to rugby.

Following confirmation from Ulster Rugby officials, Lisburn will be fielding three development sides for the 2014-15 season at Under 14, Under 16 and Under 18 level.

New coaching structures have been put in place for the incoming season with work on recruitment and planning well under way. Speaking on the launch of Lisburn’s first Rugby Academy, Youth Rugby coordinator Thomas Thompson, said: “This an exciting opportunity for us as a club, but also for young people in the Lisburn area.

“During the 2013-14 season, we recognised the demand for a rugby pathway for those leaving our thriving Mini Section at Primary School age through to Senior level at the age of 18/19. Given the success of Ulster Rugby over the past number of seasons, and the increased exposure of the sport as a whole, the need to modernise our approach as a club was very evident.

“With the launch of an Academy set-up, we feel we can provide an environment for those entering into the sport for the first time through to those that are seeking Elite development and Representative Honours both at Youth and at Senior level long-term.”

Thomas added: “We have put together a team of hard-working individuals who are driven and focused on bringing the best out of our different age groups.

“For us as a club it is primarily about participation and enjoyment but we will bring a professional mindset to the table, providing players with access to physiotherapy treatment, strength and conditioning work and nutritional information so that they develop as rugby players, but also as individuals and ultimately ambassadors for Lisburn.

“As a club we will work closely with local schools and ensure participation levels in rugby reach an all time high, particularly at traditionally non-rugby playing schools.”

The new Academy train every Wednesday evening at 6.30pm.

To register your interest as a parent or player, please contact Thomas via email on [email protected] or simply come down on training nights. All new and returning players will be made more than welcome.