Rugby Academy Ireland draws on the expertise of highly qualified, experienced coaches, tutors and mentors to deliver a fully accredited and certified programme — preparing players for a future in rugby as a player, coach or referee.
A variety of classes covering nutrition, cooking, mental skills, career guidance, leadership development, social media, public speaking, community work and more.
Training: 8 months full time, 1–4 months short stay.
Playing: Irish club.
Education: 16 different certification courses including diploma.
Living: Full board on site.
Other: Scouting and overseas trials.
Cost varies according to programme duration, educational courses chosen, and full or half board. Contact us for a player-specific quotation.
Sending our son Stefan to Ireland was one of the biggest decisions of our lives. All he wanted was to play rugby and just needed a fair chance to achieve his goals. Not only did he achieve that but he also got trials in Italy!Charl du PlessisParent, South Africa
A professional setup in a great environment with friendly and extremely knowledgeable coaches. The academy is everything it says it is on paper and more.David UptonAcademy Student, Belgium
It all started as a simple birthday present: two weeks at the RAI Rugby Academy summer camp. I had no idea that experience would have such a profound impact on my son. He enjoyed it so much that, despite being introverted and shy, he chose to spend an entire season, from September to April, at Stradbally Hall.Rosario
He arrived with a serious knee injury, but thanks to Dan’s staff and their attentive, highly professional work, he returned to the field as good as new. When he came back to Italy, his teammates couldn’t believe their eyes: “How did you manage to grow so much physically?” And it wasn’t just physical growth. The focus on individual skills, tactics, and game vision completely transformed the way he plays. I had the chance to watch him in the final of a tournament in Ireland, a final his team won, and I saw a different player: more aggressive, more aware, more precise in his decisions. In short, a new version of himself. Dan, Johan, Jac & co: thank you from the bottom of my heart for your professionalism, but above all for the kind of people you are. You played a decisive role in my son’s growth, and for a parent, that means everything.
My Son just spent 8 months at the academy. Loving every minute of it. Professional coaching fantastic facilities. Amazing accommodation. He learned so much there. Not just about the game but becoming more independent in life itself. Made great friendships that will last a lifetime. Would highly recommend it for anyone dreaming of making rugby there career.Patrick Mcmanus
Contact us for a player-specific quotation and to find out more about the Men's Academy programme.