No products in the cart
Rugby Union
Program Overview
The Gold Coast Academy of Sport (GCAS) is pleased to be able to provide a long-term talent development program for players from the age of 14-15 (born 2011-2012) in 2025. Players, coaches and administrators receive opportunities to be involved in a program focused on developing their skills and understanding of the sport in the hope they are encouraged to continue their involvement to higher levels of representative rugby local and regional representation.
The program has been designed to equip athletes with the skills, knowledge and mindset needed for long-term success. Alongside hands-on rugby development, athletes will focus on attacking and defensive footwork, core skills and technique, tactical awareness and decision-making, supported by VALD performance testing and retesting to track progress.
Off-field development will also be a key focus, with sessions covering strength and conditioning, sports psychology and managing pressure, performance nutrition, recovery and performance mindset. Together, these components provide athletes with the tools to take ownership of their development, optimise performance and build a strong foundation for the season ahead.
For the first time, the program will be delivered post-season and before the Christmas school holidays, creating a valuable opportunity to recover, reset and continue developing before the next season begins.
2026 – Dan Irvine & Frank Watson
Selection Process
Nominations are encouraged through clubs. An invitation is forwarded to clubs to identify and nominate talented players who will benefit from additional skill development and educational sessions.
Pathway
The program will feature dedicated training days and educational seminars led by professional coaches and industry experts, designed to prepare players for the upcoming season.
This initiative provides identified talented players with the opportunity to train, learn, and compete alongside the best in their age group, strengthening their link to Gold Coast Rugby Union selection and building a clear pathway toward Queensland Rugby Union representation.
Through these sessions, players will not only develop their technical skills and game awareness but also deepen their passion for rugby and gain the confidence to pursue higher-level opportunities within the sport.
Eligibility
The target age group for positions within the Rugby Union program is for 14-15 year old male athletes residing on QLD’s Gold Coast.
Athletes must be a member of the Gold Coast District Rugby Union and/or an affiliated club or be prepared to join one.
Athlete Benefits
There will be a program levy that covers the cost of a full uniform kit including training shirt, training shorts and a sports journal.
- Access to attend educational seminars, presentations and special events through the GCAS
- Access to the GCAS Gambit communication platform for streamlined communication opportunities with coaches and ease of access to additional information and resources from the GCAS
- Invitation to special seminars conducted by GCAS or partners