There was more good news for London Skolars’ Juniors this week, as 2 of the club’s most promising youngsters were selected to represent South East Colleges in the RFL Regional College Championships at the University of Nottingham. Conrad Edgar and Donovan Noble, who are members of the Skolars’ rugby academy programme at Barnet and Southgate College faced off against some of the best college athletes in the country in a tournament style format.
The South East boys had a baptism of fire in the opener against last year’s champions Yorkshire but put up a solid performance, eventually succumbing by 16 points to 4. The opening game really set the tone for the South East’s day as in all their other fixtures they provided some stiff opposition for the other regions, but couldn’t manage to get that elusive win. Eventually losing to the South-West in the 3rd and 4th place playoff by 22 points to 12.
Conrad and Donovan were put forward for selection by Matt Cuss who heads up the academy programme from the Skolars’ side at Barnet and Southgate College. He commented on the boys achievement ‘It’s fantastic to see the boys being rewarded for their efforts during the college season. Not only have the boys performed consistently well within the U19s set up last year, but have also been outstanding for us in the college programme.’
He continued ‘the Rugby Academy at Barnet and Southgate is another step on our pathway here at Skolars; it gives the students an opportunity to study for A-Levels, Foundation Degrees or B-Tec qualification, whilst combining this with the chance to train and play in a fulltime environment alongside London Skolars and Saracens coaches.’ The successes of the programme are clear to see over the past few years with First team players Smokie Junor, Dion Chapman and now London Bronco star Illies Macani all coming through the academy at the College. It’s a great opportunity for youngsters in and around North London to develop their rugby careers whilst also studying for academic qualifications.
Anyone who needs more information about the college programme can contact Matt either via email matthewcuss@skolarsrl.com or by calling the office on 020 8888 8488.
