WEST London College has launched a new Professional Rugby Academy with Ealing Trailfinders.

The first of its kind in London, it will provide young players with the opportunity to study whilst playing rugby.

The Rugby Academy, which is open to 16-19-year-olds, was launched as part of a borough-wide community event at the Ealing Trailfinders v Doncaster Knights Greene King Championship match.

It joins established sports academies in football, boxing, basketball and futsal at West London College.

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The rugby programme involves full-time training with RFU coaches at Ealing Trailfinders alongside studying for a vocational qualification at West London College.

Trailfinders have risen from National Three South to the top of the Championship, with more than 20 staff.

Students must be 16-18 when the course starts, be enrolled on a full-time course at West London College and pass a trial.

More on //wlc.ac.uk/rugby