Introducing the Manawatu Academy

Manawatu Rugby has been chosen to establish one of the 14 Academies under the auspices of the NZRU. The aim of this Academy is to provide knowledge, support and guidance to promising young rugby players so that they can be the best they can be in both the rugby environment and life outside rugby.

Selected participants will be given the opportunity to fully develop their potential in terms of physical, technical, tactical and mental skills. They will also be given the opportunity to gain the practical skills needed to set goals and maintain balance in their everyday lives.

The Academy is a three-year programme running from February to November each year. There is no fee to attend the Academy Programme and Academy members are eligible to apply for scholarships assistance to attend Massey University, UCOL or a practical vocational qualification.

To be selected for the Academy, players must have the potential to play for Manawatu NPC, Hurricanes, National age-grade sides or All Blacks. They must be motivated and committed to succeed in academic/career aspirations.

I enjoyed a number of seasons playing for Wellington and the Hurricanes before ending my career playing and coaching at the Kubota Rugby Club in Tokyo, Japan. This included interacting with some notable ex-international players, player recruitment and mentoring of Japanese coaches. I am looking forward to being involved in developing the exciting young rugby talent being produced in the Manawatu.

My role as Academy Manager is to facilitate the implementation of the prescribed programme and act as a ?sounding-board' for the players. You are able to make contact with me via:

E-mail: jasono@manawatuturbos.co.nz
Phone: (06) 355 3620 extn 705
Mobile: 021 626 315