Welsh rugby team, Cardiff Blues, has joined forces with Christ College Brecon to offer aspiring rugby players a first-class education at the renowned sporting and academic institution.
The partnership, which was launched earlier this month, will see the two organisations work in collaboration to enhance educational opportunities while improving the college’s rugby programme.
It comes as part of the school’s ambitious investment plan, which includes the expansion of its fitness gym, strength and conditioning coaching and investment in performance analysis equipment.
Cardiff Blues commercial manager, Chris Allen said:
“We are obviously thrilled to be working with such a well-respected college to give aspiring players within our academy further educational opportunities.
“They have a great set-up in Brecon and some superb facilities and we will be lending our expertise to improve what is already a very impressive rugby programme.
“We will also be hosting community camps and other events at Christ College Brecon and look forward to developing a strong and mutually beneficial relationship.”
Rugby has been a fundamental component of life at the college with several internationals among their Old Breconian alumni.
Their rugby programme is headed by former Neath, Bridgend, London Welsh and Cambridge University Blue, James Reynolds and includes Cardiff Blues Academy coach Gareth Nicholas.
Gareth Pearson, Head of Christ College Brecon, said:
“I am really excited by this new collaboration, and feel very lucky to count such an established club as the Cardiff Blues as one of our partners. We are committed to helping retain rugby talent in Wales.
“Rugby is a precarious career so it is important that those with rugby aspirations safeguard their future by working hard to achieve the best possible academic results they can. At Christ College Brecon we are perfectly placed to support both their rugby and academic aspirations.”
James Reynolds, Director of Rugby at Christ College, added: “I am delighted to be working alongside someone as passionate and experienced as Gareth Nicholas and have no doubt that his wealth of coaching experience will bring further success to the school team that already has a distinguished heritage.”
Set within the stunning scenery of the Brecon Beacons National Park, Christ College was founded in 1541 by Henry VIII and is now firmly established as one of the UK’s leading independent schools for pupils aged 7-18.
