Inverness College UHI and Highland Rugby Club sign agreement to work together to encourage young people to stay in the region
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The partnership between the organisations will also see them work to attract talent from elsewhere.
It will aim to expand and add value to opportunities to participate in further/higher education and high-level rugby in the region, focusing on areas of mutual benefit including education, research, squad development, coaching and community benefit.
It will include college students gaining access to work experience and volunteering opportunities with Highland.
Other areas for collaboration which are being looked at centre around mental health, player welfare, sports psychology, social media training, business and marketing, nutrition, and strength and conditioning.
The club will also have access to research and expertise in sports coaching and development, fitness and exercise, and data analysis, as well as college facilities, which were used by the Scotland squad this summer as part of their World Cup preparations.
The partners are also working with the Highlands and Islands’ Students Association to establish a UHI rugby team.
College principal and chief executive Professor Chris O’Neil said: “The impact of this partnership will be felt by our staff and students, but also players, coaches and fans of the club, as well as the wider community, and we hope it will encourage more young people to stay, play and study in the Highlands, but also attract talent from elsewhere.”
Highland president Graham Findlater said: “This exciting opportunity will allow, both partners to strengthen, already excellent collaborative initiatives.”
