Leeds Rhinos Academy stars Joe Sanderson and Billy McDermott are being given the chance to create a new career alongside their playing commitments thanks to the Leeds Rhinos Foundation. The pair, who are part of the Rhinos Under-19s side, have been selected to be apprentices with the charity and will work in the Rugby League Development department.
The players will gain crucial qualifications including RFL Level 2 Coaching, Multi Skills Level 2 Coaching, First Aid and Safe Guarding. Through earning these qualifications alongside the experience they will gain from shadowing the Leeds Rhinos Foundation staff it is hoped it will enhance each player’s development and give them skills that they will be able to use away from their playing career.
Leeds Rhinos Foundation’s Jonny Wainhouse, commented:
“This is extremely positive news for not just the Leeds Rhinos Foundation but for the community too. We are going to have young role models that will inspire and engage hopefully the next generation of players. This also shows the club’s commitment to offering their players opportunities and the chance to develop skills outside of the game.
“We are pleased to have Joe and Billy on board, they are enthusiastic and are looking forward to working in the community with our charity. Not so long ago they were playing for their own community clubs so will be able to relate with the young people we work with and pass on their own experience and offer guidance."
This is the first time Leeds Rhinos Foundation has taken on apprentices and the pair will be able to gain experience in many different areas in their role working alongside the charity’s Partner School Officers and Rugby League Development Officers.
McDermott, who is following in the footsteps of his father Barrie who played for the Rhinos and worked with the Foundation, along with his team mate Sanderson will deliver sports coaching in schools with the aim to engage as many children to participate in sport as possible.
They will also support the charity's aim to develop Rugby League in the city by linking with clubs to encourage young people to continue playing rugby with their local community teams.