Young Rotorua rugby players could have the opportunity to pursue their sporting and academic ambitions through the US collegiate system after a partnership announcement today.
Bay of Plenty Rugby Union has announced a partnership with NSR Australia which specialises in recruiting Australian and New Zealand student athletes and promoting them to more than 2500 US colleges and universities across the United States based on their individual academic and athletic ability.
Trials will be held throughout the Bay of Plenty this month followed by personal interviews for rugby players ranging from Year 9 through to first year out of college. They will be invited to participate in the events and find out more about what the US college system has to offer.
In the US collegiate system, aspiring student athletes have the opportunity to earn the degree of their choice while competing in the sport they love full-time, potentially on scholarship.
"We are delighted to announce this partnership, which provides football players of all levels across New Zealand with an opportunity to enrich their lives through their passion for sport," said chief executive of NSR Australia and New Zealand, Marco Maisano.
Neil Alton, Bay of Plenty Rugby Union operations manager, said it was a great opportunity for young players to align their rugby and academic aspirations.
"NSR are widely respected around the world and these skills evaluations provide Kiwis with a chance to learn about an alternative pathway, giving them the opportunity to play rugby overseas, whilst earning an education and some great life experience."
Trial Dates:
Rotorua:
Date: Saturday, February 18
Time: 9am - 11am
Where: Western Heights High School
Whakatane:
Date: Saturday, February 18
Time: 3pm - 5pm
Where: Whakatane High School
Tauranga:
Date: Sunday, February 19
Time: 10am - 12pm
Where: Mount Maunganui Rugby Club, Blake Park
