As part of our Rugby League Development Plan, the Leeds Rhinos Foundation have vowed to improve the standards and environments associated with our game in the city of Leeds.
When setting out the plan, the Foundation promised to work across all facets of the game to improve these factors both socially and physically. One of these sectors was Coach Education, with the programme working to upskill coaches relevant to their age groups, improving the community game as a whole.
In partnership with the Rugby Football League, we have begun the rollout of a robust and quality programme, with the aim of increasing the number of coaches involved in the game. But it doesn’t end there, those coaches have been provided with continuous support and development.
As part of the plan, the Foundation will assess their performance each year, measuring the impact our work has on the game throughout the city.
In 2023, over 100 coaches have undertaken coaching courses lead by the Foundation, resulting in more qualified coaches taking on roles in community clubs across Leeds. In addition to this, over 200 coaches have attended our open access workshops to develop their skills and knowledge.
Through relationships with our Ambassador Clubs, we have been able to provide bespoke outreach support in community club environments, alongside extra opportunities such as the Rhinos Talent Pathway and our North vs South Player Development Series.
15 community club coaches volunteered on our RTP programme this year, receiving bespoke CPD throughout whilst providing a unique opportunity to learn from their peers in a professional club environment. This was furthered by the 18 coaches who took on roles during the North vs South programme.
Looking to 2024, we aim to continue this rollout, encouraging more coaches to take up this support.
What will this look like and what support is on offer?
- 3 Primary coaching workshops ahead of the 2024 season.
- Transition workshop for coaches progressing to the 13-a-side game.
- 3 bespoke coach development evenings with involvement from the Leeds Rhinos men’s and women’s coaching staff.
- Bespoke workshops for coaches working in the female game.
- The launch of our community club coaching coordinator scheme.
- The production of a community club coaching resource to support coaches working in the community game.
We hope that through doing the above, we can play a part in the improvement of our game throughout the city and make it an enjoyable one for all.