Academy Programme

Rugby Skills and Techniques

Rugby skills will be developed under the watchful eye of the Academy's Head Coach and the coaching staff of the club's professional team. Players will be given individual, group and team coaching and feedback on performance will be an integral and key part of the development programme.

It is likely that Academy Scholars will play their rugby in one of Harlequins teams but this is not necessarily the case and each individual's playing programme will be decided by the athlete, the Head Coach and the Academy Manager. It is anticipated that no Academy Scholar will play more than 32 matches in any season including club games and representative side trials and matches.

Strength and Conditioning

Strength and conditioning forms an integral part of the development of all Harlequins England Rugby Academy Scholars. Programmes are designed by specialist coaches to allow each athlete to progressively achieve his optimal performance. Each athlete's programme is individually tailored to meet his specific strengths and weaknesses. This progression is monitored by the coaches throughout the player's scholarship.

Sport Psychology

Sport Psychology takes an innovative approach in developing the players and specifically their mental skills. Forming an integral part of the programme players learn to manage their time effectively and cope with life at the Academy. Mental skills of goal setting, concentration, relaxation and dealing with own emotions and those of their teammates are taught.

Self image and performance is addressed through work on self-esteem, confidence, assertiveness and maintenance of composure.

Physiology

In order to help coaches carry out programmes designed to optimise specific fitness, athletes will be tested regularly to monitor their fitness and body composition.

Nutrition

Nutrition is a vital component in the preparation of elite athletes as eating well is part of the package to play well. Athletes at the Academy are educated to maintain a diet conducive to professional sports. Important issues such as preparing for training and competition, eating on the road and recovery strategies are covered in the programme. This includes group sessions addressing issues like eating out and takeaways, shopping, preparing and cooking simple healthy meals.

Sports Medicine

Sports Medicine at the Academy is provided by a group of doctors, nutritionists, physiotherapists and masseurs. The Sports Medicine Department looks after athletes with all their injuries and provides specialist advice in nutrition and sports performance, in aspects of social health and hygiene, injury prevention and management.