HULL FC and Wales Rugby League have entered into a Rugby League Development Agreement.
The partnership will see the club expand its development footprint into South Wales to give opportunities for both coaches and young players.
Working with community clubs, schools, and grassroots organisations across the region, the agreement will aim to inspire new participants for Rugby League, develop future coaches and coaching opportunities, and help create more sustainable community clubs. Both bodies aim to create a sustainable pathway into continued participation with the Hull FC Centre of Excellence, and education pathways into the University of Hull.
Talent identification will form a significant part of the partnership, with the club’s youth ranks already bolstered by the recruitment of young Welsh players Charlie Cullen-Thomas, Joshua Harding and Will Mathers in recent months.
As part of the partnership, Under 14s and Under 16s representative sides from South Wales will travel to Hull in May for a series of exhibition fixtures against Hull FC Scholars and Developments sides.
Last September Hull FC also announced a new partnership with North Lincolnshire Council to generate young players across the south bank of the River Humber.
“Creating a development hub in South Wales alongside Wales Rugby League is a really exciting step for us,” said Hull FC Head of Youth Richard Tate.
“There is a huge amount of sporting talent in the region and this partnership allows us to work closely together to identify, support and develop young players.
“We see this as the beginning of a strong and positive relationship with Wales Rugby League. Our aim is to build something sustainable that benefits players, coaches and clubs in South Wales, while also giving those with the ambition and ability a clear route to progress within the game.”
James Davies, Chairman of Wales Rugby League, added: “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to developing talent and providing clear, meaningful routes for players to experience Rugby League at an elite level.
“By working closely with Hull FC, we will create opportunities for aspiring athletes within our pathways to train, learn and develop in a professional environment, helping them better understand what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of the sport.
“Our pathways are designed not only to identify and nurture talented players, but also to support the development of well-rounded individuals. Through this collaboration, players will gain exposure to professional standards, coaching expertise and performance environments that will inspire them to raise their ambitions and realise their potential.
“Importantly, this partnership is about more than rugby. The values of our sport – teamwork, discipline, respect and resilience – help shape young people into strong role models within their communities. By connecting our pathways with Hull FC’s professional programme, we are strengthening our ability to develop not just better players, but great people who will make a positive impact both on and off the field.
“We are excited about what this collaboration can achieve and look forward to seeing the opportunities it will create for players across Wales in the years ahead.”