The Welsh Rugby Union is looking for its 100th WRU rugby development apprentice.

The search is on for 15 enthusiastic young people aged 18+ who are keen to engage young people from all backgrounds and walks of life across Wales in fun, rugby activities.

The successful year-long WRU rugby development apprenticeship programme, for which the successful applicants receive £9 500 plus expenses, is in its eighth year and has already benefiitted 87 young people. The scheme provides the youngsters with a huge amount of hands-on, practical experience of delivering rugby experiences within schools, colleges and a diverse range of community environments – while gaining an NVQ Level 3 in Sport Development.

Rugby experience is not a requirement – WRU coaches and mentors will provide all the coaching skills needed, the key ingredients are enthusiasm and a desire to put something back into communities around Wales.

Nooh Omar Ibrahim from Butetown, Cardiff, is in the final months of his WRU apprenticeship and could not speak more highly of the experience.

He said, “A year ago I was working in a warehouse full-time without a real goal, just working for the sake of it. I’d never been involved in rugby at all but always been sporty and when I saw this opportunity, I put everything into getting a place and I’ve found my true self and passion.

“It’s more than just a qualification, the WRU is like a family and it’s a very inclusive environment.

“A lot of kids in the same position as me might now take up rugby because they see me doing it – someone that looks like them and is from the same area as them. Jersey for All is more than just a hashtag.”

Olivia Jenkins, from Treowen, Newbridge added, “I was looking to go to university just because everyone else was doing it but I didn’t want to get into debt.

“I took a year out, did the apprenticeship and now I’ve been offered a role as WRU rugby officer for the female game.

“You can tailor your apprenticeship to your own preferences, whether you want to coach in the female game, disability rugby or other formats, it’s all about what you want to do.”

Kira Philpott was an apprentice herself five years ago and is now an apprentice mentor alongside her role as Rugby Officer for the female game in the Cardiff Region. “My apprenticeship year was the best year of my life. It’s amazing that we’re almost up to 100 graduates. They all have different pathways but all go on to bigger and better things. It’s brilliant to see them develop and come into their own

“We just want enthusiastic young people who want to improve their communities.”

CLICK HERE for more information and to apply.

DEADLINE August 20 (midday)