BIG NAMES LAUNCH NEW ACADEMY

International rugby stars Alex Lowzoski and John Gallagher launched our ambitious new rugby academy on August 21st. The ACE Academy, a joint venture with the city’s Archbishop’s School, is based on a Rugby Football Union pathway programme designed to transition academy players into professional rugby. It aims to provide a facility for local children which removes all socio-economic barriers facing local students.

Saracens and England centre Lozowski and World Cup winning New Zealand All Black full back Gallagher performed the official honours before meeting some of the first students at the Academy, club officials, Archishop’s school senior staff and sponsors. Our Head of Player Pathway, Nathan Morris, who will lead the Academy’s community coaching team, said: “The aim of the ACE academy is dualistic, we wish to provide high-quality coaching as well as creating opportunities for the young people of East Kent. We have been very lucky to have great support from our sponsors who will also support the students with work experience and career advice.”

Together with Nathan, the academy will be run by coaches Matt Corker, Alice Hayward and Ella Jenkins.

Archbishop’s School provides education for 750 mixed ability students aged from 11 to 19. Welcoming the new initiative Head Teacher David Elliott said: “The school is proud to partner with Canterbury Rugby Football Club to introduce the Archbishop’s Canterbury Educational (ACE) Rugby Academy from September 2024. Our new partnership will offer unique opportunities for our higher year students. The Academy programme will further enhance our sports offer at the school.

“This new venture perfectly aligns with our vision which enables students to flourish. Engaging with Canterbury Rugby Club, our students will learn and grow and we are confident this partnership will be transformative for all involved.”

The Academy is a major addition to the club’s commitment to providing opportunities for everyone in the local community through a series of exciting new programmes for local schools.