NEWS | Dons launch Development Academy in partnership with Club Doncaster Sports College

Doncaster RLFC are delighted to announce the launch of a new U18s Development Academy in partnership with Club Doncaster Sports College.

The partnership will provide an opportunity for young local athletes to train, play and study full time at Club Doncaster Sports College whilst representing Doncaster RLFC. 

The programme will be open and available to both boys and girls in years 12 and 13. Alongside the playing opportunities, the Dons will provide work experience for students throughout their studies. 

Dons head of development, Josh Riding said: This is a really exciting time for the Dons and this is the next step in the club's continued growth. The club can now provide an academy system for aspiring professional rugby league players, bridging the gap between junior and adult competitions. With this partnership, we now have a genuine pathway for local junior players to reach our first team squad. 

Club Doncaster Sports College offers courses at Level 2 and Level 3 in Sports Coaching for 16-18 year olds; last year achieving a 100% pass rate across these programmes.  

The boys and girls rugby academy will join the football academy in enriching these programmes further.

Principal Adi Turnpenny said ‘We are looking forward to working with the Dons to provide both a top quality educational experience as part of their pathway.  Our students are able to access fantastic experiences in rugby league through our partnership with the Dons and it will be great to grow this further.’ 

Please note the next open evening is on Thursday, November 28 4:30pm–6.00pm at the college (Eco-Power Stadium) and is on a ‘drop in’ basis. 

If you are interested in joining the Dons Development Academy in September 2025, register your interest HERE.

For any more information, please contact josh.riding@clubdoncaster.co.uk