Hull FC and Wales Rugby League are delighted to announce the formation of a brand new Rugby League Development Agreement.
The partnership between the Black & Whites and the National Governing Body for Rugby League in Wales will see the club expand their development footprint into South Wales through a variety of new 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 to get involved in Rugby League, develop future coaches and coaching opportunities, and help create more sustainable community clubs across the area, with the ultimate target of creating 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 Welsh trio Charlie Cullen-Thomas, Joshua Harding, and Will Mathers in recent months.
As part of the partnership, U14s and U16s representative sides from South Wales will travel to Hull in May for a series of exhibition fixtures against Hull FC Scholars and Development sides.
Speaking on the announcement, Head of Youth Richard Tate, said: “Creating a development hub in South Wales alongside Wales Rugby League is a really exciting step for us. 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.”
Academy & Transition Head Coach, Francis Cummins, added: “At Hull FC, we’re passionate about creating opportunities for young players to develop and fulfil their potential. Working alongside Wales Rugby League to establish this hub gives talented athletes in South Wales a genuine pathway into elite Rugby League environments.
“There is a lot of untapped sporting talent in the region, and this initiative will allow us to connect with those players, introduce them to the game at a higher level, and support their development within a structured programme.”
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.”
