Pocklington School has been selected to join Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club’s new Affiliated Schools Programme this year.
The affiliation will give pupils a closer insight into the workings of the Leeds-based Championship club. Its players and staff will visit and take part in assemblies, and there will be a chance for Pocklington to host a first-team training session.
As one of just 16 Yorkshire schools invited onto the Affiliation Programme, Pocklington pupils will also be able to attend a Yorkshire Carnegie home game and participate in the match-day entertainment.
The scheme is aimed at introducing more pupils to rugby union and Yorkshire Carnegie in particular. It runs alongside the club’s England Rugby Developing Player Programme, which identifies and nurtures future talent.
Pocklington School’s Master in charge of Rugby, Sean Houltham, said: “We have been recognised by Yorkshire Carnegie as a school that supports the individual to achieve their potential, whilst also balancing their sporting and academic needs. This partnership is a great opportunity for pupils of all abilities to enjoy rugby, develop their skills and fulfil their potential.”
Adam Blades, Yorkshire Carnegie Community Manager, said: “It is great to have Pocklington on board as one of the 16 affiliated schools.
“This is in recognition of the commitment Pocklington has shown in attending various Yorkshire Carnegie games and events over the past few years. They have also allowed us the use of their school facilities as a host venue for our community events.”
The club has a number of existing player development programmes in place with schools. The Affiliated Schools will run alongside the existing schemes and will provide further opportunities for schools across Yorkshire to further engage with Yorkshire Carnegie. It is not focussed on player development.
Lisa McCann, Schools Development Manager, added: “We are delighted to launch this scheme for our schools. This is a chance for us to engage all of their students with Yorkshire Carnegie even if they do not play Rugby Union. We are hoping to inspire the next generation of Yorkshire Carnegie fans and this is an exciting time for us.”
