Staffordshire Rugby and HMP Featherstone launch Player Pathway Programme
Staffordshire Rugby Union is delighted to announce a new initiative with HMP Featherstone, combining rugby education, personal development and the values of our game.
HMP Featherstone’s XV already competes in the Staffordshire Merit League, welcoming visiting clubs into the prison for competitive fixtures.
Building on that relationship, Andy Appleyard, SRU Director of Rugby and Managing Director of The Clubhouse XV, has developed a six-session programme for 20 participants, supported by HMP Featherstone’s Education Department and working alongside Liam Higgins and Ness James, Physical Education Supervising Officers (P.E.S.O.s).
The programme develops rugby skills, teamwork, communication, confidence and decision-making, underpinned by rugby’s TREDS values — Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship. Successful participants will receive a SRU Certificate of Achievement.
Liam Higgins, HMP Featherstone, said:
“Rugby is already an important part of life here at Featherstone, and we’re really pleased to be working with Staffordshire Rugby to take it a stage further. This programme gives the lads an opportunity not only to improve as players, but to develop skills, confidence and positive behaviours that can benefit them beyond rugby and beyond prison.”
Andy Appleyard, SRU DoR, said:
“Having spent time with the players and staff at Featherstone, it was clear there was real enthusiasm for rugby and a willingness to learn. The aim is for everyone to finish the programme having achieved something they can be proud of.”
Shaun Godfrey, SRU Chair, said:
“HMP Featherstone is already an integral part of our rugby community through the Staffordshire Merit League. This programme uses rugby as a vehicle for education, personal development and positive change.”