Thanks to The Royal Foundation Coach Core apprentice programme, Percy Park RFC’s 1st XV player 19-year-old Adam Hay is gaining work experience, quality training and recognisable qualifications.

The programme is supported by Tyne and Wear Sport and the RFU development team in Northumberland, with the aim of developing rugby locally.  Percy Park are very aware that growing their junior section ultimately gives them a stronger First XV  and Adam will promote rugby in local schools and help with the transition of older junior players into the club’s senior sides.

Wade Financial Chartered Financial Planners are supporting Percy Park in this latest venture, having championed the club for many years and encouraged young people’s involvement in sport.

Says Adam: “I started playing rugby at seven years old at Percy Park and now I play hooker for their first XV. I hope to bring the experience of my Percy Park and Falcons Academy coaches and to use some of these techniques in the apprenticeship. I’ve always loved rugby, so a job in rugby was always the aim and this has given me the platform to do that.

“I want to push myself to be the best coach I can possibly be. I’m loving the apprenticeship and excited to see what it could develop into. I think others coming through my pathway and out of highly rugby integrated programmes such as the AASE scheme and Falcons Academy would benefit from this apprenticeship if they are unsure what to do for a career.

"It still involves rugby every day and is a great opportunity to stay in the sport as a job. I’m very thankful for Percy Park RFC and the RFU for selecting me and having faith in me.”