How can I qualify for selection to an England Rugby Academy?
Players will be selected from county development squads, by direct referral from the county coach or Rugby Development Officer. Opportunities will be created for entry by late developers and talented athletes from other disciplines. Players selected to attend an England Rugby Academy must be England qualified and have the potential to play for England. Player potential will be assessed under four main categories: – Skills and elements of competence – Fitness – Tactical and game awareness – Personal attitude Players wishing to put themselves forward for selection towards an academy should first be identified within the constituent body development squads run by the RFU’s Rugby Development Officers. Players can be nominated to these squads from any club or school. Selection will be based on merit. Those selected must demonstrate the potential to become a professional rugby player and the mental toughness/desire to “be the best”. Academy athletes will be expected to put “rugby first” and
