Rugby Academy 2014
Malahide RFC Academy was launched in February 2014 with players from under 14 to under 17 up
for selection. With nominations from squad coaches and selection from Academy Manager Brendan
Carpenter the 2014 Academy Squad was announced.
On the launch night the players sat through a presentation outlining the goals and expectations of the
Academy and the prospects for these elite players. After the short presentation the squad were then
tested in strength and conditioning to give an indication of their starting levels of strength and fitness.
As the Academy progresses the squad will cover modules in all facets of the game of rugby including;
handling, tackling, the breakdown, set pieces, counter attack, defensive and attacking systems. These
modules will run throughout the Academy term and with this group of players the main aim of the
Academy is to develop the squad by training with other elite players.
Along with on the pitch training the Academy squad also covers development in strength and
conditioning, nutrition and game management. The players receive gym and pitch training by Richie
Forbes, Malahide RFC’s Strength and Conditioner. The squad also fill in training diaries with gym
sessions, food intake and training schedules. The food diary is an indication of player diet and with the
help of nutritionists they become knowledgeable in how to develop their diet to aid them in training
and playing.
As the Academy progresses throughout the year the players will train once a week and play matches
against touring teams and also hopefully take part in seven’s tournaments over the summer months.
The squad will develop their rugby knowledge throughout the Academy term and in doing so progress
their rugby development to aid them in rugby and hopefully see them alongside Malahide 1stXV in
years to come.
Richie Forbes
Brendan Carpenter