Youth focus in new ARL partnership

January 31, 2018

Auckland Rugby League Media

Youth focus in new ARL partnership

Offering further education opportunities for local youth is at the forefront of the Auckland Rugby League’s new partnership with the New Zealand Institute of Sport.

A memorandum of understanding between the two organisations will see the New Zealand Management Academies provide 10 full scholarships to Auckland Rugby League players aged 17 and over, while two scholarships will also be available through the New Zealand Institute of Sport.

ARL chairman Cameron McGregor said the partnership provides the opportunity for local league players to get a start on the path to a rewarding career off the field.

“This is very much a big-picture partnership for us,” McGregor said.

“Only four per cent of players go on to achieve a professional career in our sport, and we have to look after the rest of them by offering them options off the field while also helping them to become better rugby league players.

“This is a natural fit for the Auckland Rugby League and something we are very excited to be able to offer our players going forward.”

Each year over 15,000 players take the field in various Auckland Rugby League competitions.

Group director of the New Zealand Institute of Sport and the New Zealand College of Massage, Taulalo Fiso, is a strong believer in the importance of providing valuable education and career learning opportunities for aspiring sports people.

“By using sport as a hook, this partnership will provide opportunities to grow sporting endeavour, whether it be on the playing field, sports administration, event management or life-changing experiences to pursue a career in the field of their choosing,” Fiso said.

“We are excited about this relationship with the Auckland Rugby League and its wider community.

“I am also confident that my Northern Regional manager Willie Maea will work closely with the ARL in meeting all the outcomes we have agreed to.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media