Women's rugby
academy programme

Check out the rugby academy!

Rugby Academy Ireland provides aspiring Irish, European and international rugby players a comprehensive full-time 8 month training programme with an optional extra 1 month travel package, (Sept – April). Players can also join the programme on shorter periods and can choose between full and half board options.

Women's Rugby Academy Team

We have a great team of experienced coaches and tutors that work alongside players, as well as designated mentors for the Women’s Academy that offer professional advice and encouragement every step of the way!

MENTOR

Allison Miller

Women's Rugby Academy Coach

69 Irish Women 15's International Caps
Two Wold Cup 15's and 1 World Cup 7's
Irish 7's International Player
Women's Barbarian Representative

MENTOR

Fiona Hayes

Women's Academy Coach

• Women's AIL Coach of the year, 2020
• Irish Women's Rugby 15's, 2012-2016
• Two-time 6 Nations winner, 2013 and 2015
• Grand Slam winner, 2013

MENTOR

Grace Davitt

Women's Rugby Academy Coach

• 56 caps for ireland from 05-2014
• Grand slam 2013
• World Cup semi final 2014
• Coached Cooke women in Ail 2015-17
• Malone Womens 2018-20 & into promoted into AIL
• IRFU Stage 4 performance coaching

MENTOR

Maz Reilly

Women's Rugby Academy Coach

• 1st Team coach with WAIL team Old Belvedere RFC
• Leinster Metro U18 Girls Coach
• Leinster Women’s Senior Coaching & Management Team

MENTOR

Gill Bourke

Women's Rugby Academy Coach

• 51 Ireland Women’s 15’s International Caps
• Two World Cups 2010 & 2014
• Six Nations 2008 - 2015 (Grandslam 2013, Champions 2015)
• Barbarians Rugby Football Club – 2 Caps

What to expect

Course content

Rugby Academy Ireland draws on the expertise of highly qualified, experienced and skilled coaches, tutors and mentors to deliver a fully accredited and certified educational programme that provides a pathway for students to achieve their personal goals and full potential, preparing them for a future in rugby either as a player, coach or referee.

Students can choose between short and longer term courses with both residential and non-residential options.

Email us to find out more!

A SERIOUS LEARNING PATHWAY

Rugby development with fully accredited qualifications

Rugby Training

Individual skill sessions
Individual position specific sessions
Irish club team training

Strength & conditioning

Female Rugby players training at the Rugby Academy Ireland gym

Individual programme
Speed development
Agility/Quickness training
Hand/eye coordination

Education

ITEC personal trainer qualification
ITEC strength and conditioning certificate
Sport Psychology diploma
SAQ level 1-4
Speed development
NAC sport video analysis certificate
IRB coach and referee qualification

FIND OUT MORE

Personal Development

Female rugby players at the Rugby Academy Ireland

Variety of classes from nutrition, cooking, mental, career guidance, leadership development, social media, public speaking, community work etc.

Click here for more information about education, course and qualifications

Investing in a career in rugby

How much does it cost?

Cost of attending the Rugby Academy varies according to the duration of the programme the player chooses, the educational courses they study and whether full or half board is required. We recommend you contact us for a player specific quotation so that you receive the best mix of a professional rugby experience as well as meeting individual educational targets.

Cost includes:

Accommodation for residential players
Three healthy meals and snacks (Mon-Fri)
Cost related to local/overseas club trials (excluding flights)
Training and casual gear package by BLK
All training and tutor sessions as per program
All educational material and tutors for courses specified
Continuous report on academic and rugby performance
Develop a modern CV for each player
Airport transfers to and from the Academy
All strength and conditioning sessions and programming
Lifestyle skills programs
Norma Tec recovery room usage
Weekly sports massage rehabilitation session

Cost will exclude:

Medical, dental or physiotherapy cost
Medical, personal and travel insurance
Costs relating to the “non optional” educational program
Visa if applicable

Download the brochure for the Women's Rugby Academy programme

Download brochure

What do the girls say?

Past rugby academy players and female athletes share their experiences

Erin King

Allison Miller

Ruth Campbell

First-hand experiences

“Our daughter attended the Academy and was new to the game. We were astounded at the difference in her skill level come the next season. She learnt so much about the technical side of rugby as well as other other aspects that support the game such as nutrition and mental preparation. She was well looked after and had an absolute ball. Would send her again in a heartbeat.”
Doug & Hilary UpshonParent

“The girls will benefit greatly from the Rugby Academy. There are a variety of coaches with excellent experience and knowledge for all different areas and with the time in the academy you will get one on one coaching.This is a great way to improve your overall game as well as your specific skills. I wish there were opportunities like this around when I was a teenager!”
Grace DavittGirl's Rugby Coach

“I attended the academy as a new player to rugby after only playing for 1 season. I learnt about so many different aspects of the game which improved my mental and physical capabilities, I came out of the camp feeling much more confident about my ability to play the game, not to mention it was heaps of fun and I made lots of great friends from all over the world. I would highly recommend this academy to anyone who wants to improve their game, beginner or experienced.”
Zoe BrockPlayer from Dubai

“My experience of the Rugby Academy is a hugely positive one, whenever I am there is always a hive of positive energy as players are being coached and developed on and off the pitch, what always strikes me is the players always enjoy the challenge and have smiles on their faces. It is clear to see Dan and Johan’s passion for the game and their rugby philosophy will have a positive impact on the girls and boys of the RAI.”
Allison MillerRugby Academy Ireland Girl's Coach