Easts Tigers have announced a new partnership with Shalom College and the introduction of a Wide Bay Development Academy to assist in providing players in the region with a new pathway through to the Intrust Super Cup.
The club are excited about being given the opportunity to work within the Wide Bay region and are looking forward to kicking off their first session today (January 21).
With the support of sponsors in the local area, the club has been able to provide a high-quality academy model to help develop future stars.
Shalom College Rugby League coordinator Neil Feather was pleased to have the club on board.
“Shalom College is exceptionally proud to have an association with a club as steeped in tradition as Easts Tigers,” he said.
“They are providing both the students of our college and those of the wider Wide Bay community a fantastic new opportunity to pursue their sporting dreams, but also develop as young men.”
This academy not only touches on field components, but has a well-planned out educational component to accompany it.
Easts Tigers CEO Brian Torpy said he was looking forward to what the partnership might bring.
“We are excited to be able to partner with a school such as Shalom College and work in the Wide Bay region which has been a history of successful rugby league players,” he said.
“Most recently, Felise and Patrick Kaufusi (pictured above) have come through the Easts Tigers system, due to the affiliation between Melbourne Storm and Easts Tigers and are both Shalom College alumni.
“Easts Tigers would also like to thank Beds R Us Bundaberg, The Waves Leagues Club, Greensill Farming and Shawline embroidery for their sponsorship and support of the program.
“We are proud to have them on board.”
There will be an official academy launch providing further media opportunities in late February with the date to be confirmed shortly.
