College rugby academy tackles success

The Hopwood Hall College Rugby Academy

Hopwood Hall College’s Rugby Academy has tackled its way into a leading position, having won three trophies, finishing top of the table and partnering with the Rochdale Hornets.

The College’s first team were undefeated in the league division, maintaining their top spot in the Elite College’s League table. Whilst for the first time Hopwood’s new second team followed their lead and also finished top of the North West Division 2 League table. Other trophy’s won by the academy players include the 9s Festival and the North West College Cup.

Hopwood Hall College’s Rugby Academy Manager Matt Calland said: “It’s a joy to see how the academy has flourished; there is now a squad of 40 players, consisting of two teams and, over last 5 years we have been in the top two squads in the country. It’s great place to be.”

The College’s Rugby Academy continues to grow, with 40 students on the programme this year. The Academy has now also forged links with the Rochdale Hornets, making it an accredited Academy, Tier 3. The exciting association enables the Hopwood students to progress into the professional game of rugby.