Cardiff Rugby have launched a skill centre programme for aspiring rugby players in the pathway, kicking off with a six-week development programme in Treforest this week.

The sessions, which take place at University of South Wales’ Sports Park, will be run by the club’s regional age grade staff, in association with Cardiff Rugby Community Foundation, with the aim of developing players through focused and targeted skill delivery.

The initial six-week block will open to under-14 players who attend schools in the Rhondda catchment area, and take place every Friday between 4.00pm-5.00pm, stating on October 1. Further programmes are planned to take place in other areas of the region in the future.

The entire six-week programme will cost £30 per player, which includes all administration fees and a Cardiff Rugby training t-shirt.

Talent and Pathway manager, Aled James, said: “We’re really excited to work with the under-14 age group. It’s a fantastic opportunity to ensure we can keep an eye out on the next generation of age grade talent, while also servicing the players’ development.

“Players at this age will have missed out on a lot of rugby over the last 18 months, so hopefully we can offer our expertise and knowledge to ensure they’re continuing to develop a number of aspects of their games.

“These boys will be stepping up to under-16 rugby soon, so it’s a great opportunity for us to keep an eye out on the talent in our area and ensure our player identification knowledge is as broad as possible.

“We’re starting with the Rhondda catchment area but are already working hard on planning future programmes to cover all areas within the region.

“We’re blessed to have a lot of talent in the region and a lot of fantastic schools and clubs which play a role in their early development as rugby players. Hopefully this programme is one that can benefit everyone involved.”

The first session kicks off on Friday, October 2, for players who fall under the Rhondda catchment area, including pupils of Treorchy Comprehensive School, Ferndale Community School,Porth Community School, Ysgol Nantgwyn, Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhondda and Tonyrefail Community School.

Book your place and join us at USW’s Sports Park in Treforest NOW!