YOUNG rugby players are set to benefit from a new partnership between an Oxford college and a major rugby team.

The City of Oxford College has launched its Wasps ACE programme, for female rugby players aged 16 to 18, who have the potential to play at the highest level.

Wasps ACE students will be able to compete with their home club, while getting access to more than 12 hours of contact time with Wasps Ladies staff.

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Pat Metcalfe-Jones, head of girls rugby at City of Oxford College, said: “Our partnership with Wasps Ladies will provide an outstanding experience and pathway for the academic and rugby pursuits of young female players.

“I’m looking forward to engaging with our local rugby clubs and schools within this new Wasps partnership, to ultimately expand the opportunities for young players within the area.”

Martin Unsworth, academies co-ordinator at City of Oxford College, added: “The programme provides a mix of academic studies and high-performance sport.

“In addition to quality rugby coaching the athletes will gain the skills to move to the next level. It is ideal preparation for university or professional sport balancing studies with elite sport.”

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