TSP: RUGBY UNION
What is the Hunter Sports High School Rugby Union Program?
2008 saw the commencement of our 15th TSP Program – Rugby Union. The program provides a unique opportunity for players (aged 12 – 18 years) within the Central Coast, Newcastle and Hunter Valley regions to combine effectively academic and sporting excellence.

The program includes:
• 2 x 1.5 hour training sessions per week for 40 weeks.
• Opportunities to compete in CHS Competitions at Zone, Regional and State levels.
• Specialised skills development.
• Individual programs for players
• Goal setting and self-monitoring skills.
• Fitness Assessment twice a year at Balance Health Club.
• Possibility of an overseas tour in 2012.
How does the Program work?
• TSP Rugby Union follows the National curriculum established by the ARU.
• The program has a heavy emphasis on individual offensive and defensive fundamentals and also teaches principles of team play.
• All players receive introductory information and instruction on sports nutrition, psychology, recovery, strength, agility and injury prevention.
• Players have the opportunity to gain certificates in
coaching and refereeing.
Program Achievements in 2009
• Alumni Shield (Year 7 & 8 Hunter Competition) winners.
• Wiburd Shield (Year 10 NSW Country Competition) semi-finalists.
• 7 NSW Country Representatives.
• 4 NSW Representatives.
How does the Program link to Rugby Union Clubs?
All players are encouraged to participate in competitions conducted by NSW Rugby Union and undertake regular training outside of school hours. The program complements programs conducted by all local Rugby Union associations and clubs.
Through our Rugby Union network and relationships with National and State coaches, all players are provided with a multitude of opportunities to enhance their Rugby Union careers.
Who are the Rugby Union Coaches?
• Daniel Garner (Administrator/Coach) – Current 1st Grade player in the NHRU Competition.
• William Scully (Administrator/Coach) – Former player in NHRU Competition, internal program administrator.
• Mitchell Drinkwater (Coach) – NSW Rugby Junior Development Officer and former NJHRU representative player.
• Bill Coffey (Strength & Conditioner) – Professional Personal Trainer, current 1st Grade and Representative player in NHRU competition.
What does the Program provide?
• Individual skill development.
• Fitness development.
• Sports Science education.
• Guest coaching by ARU representatives.
• AIS visit.
• State and National competitions.
• Organisational and time management skills.
• Interactive and positive learning environment.
• Fitness Assessments twice a year at Balance Health Club
What do the players say about the program?
“I have been a member of TSP Rugby since its inception in 2008. Since joining as a 15 year old, I have enjoyed the opportunity to play representative Rugby in both the Schools and clubs pathways. Most notable was my selection to play for NSW CHS 1sts in 2009 as a 17 year old. This year I have set my schoolboy representative goals higher and have taken an offer from Sydney’s Eastwood Club to play in the Sydney Colts Competition. I credit much of my personal development and success to being given the unique opportunity of mixing school study with sporting pursuits at Hunter Sports High School”- testimonial by Matthew White (pictured above) – 2009 NSW CHS 1st XV
How do I apply?
To be part of this program prospective student need to obtain an application package from our web page. Students must participate in regular rugby union competitions and undertake a trial, and provide supporting documentation as detailed in the application package. Note that students may be in any year, and acceptance and ongoing placement in the program is based on continued academic effort, acceptable attendance levels and an excellent behaviour record.
Students are supported by a school environment which caters for the academic and welfare needs of the talented athlete, allowing students to gain a quality education whilst still pursuing their sporting dreams.
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