Strong partnerships formed with local universities
You may have seen in the past few weeks that the Community section of Bedford Blues RFC has now transferred under our charitable umbrella, creating one streamlined community function promoting sport, rugby, health and education.
This merging will allow Blues Foundation to continue their current offering of activation, while taking on board new provision previously conducted by Blues Community. With an expanded pool of resources, Blues Foundation are determined to continue helping all those in the community who need it across a wide range of skillsets.
Two organisations who have benefitted from previous collaborations with both Blues Foundation and the formative Blues Community are University of Bedfordshire and university of Buckingham, who we will continue to support and strengthen relationships with further moving forwards.
Both universities have grown with the tutelage provided not just on the rugby field but academically as well. Please click here to read more on the partnerships.
Speaking last month, Head of Delivery, Adam King said: “It’s been fantastic to create a link to the University of Buckingham, whilst further expanding at University of Bedfordshire. All teams we engage with have come on leaps and bounds since we began our contact times at both campuses. These are partnerships we’re keen to develop and build even further as we plan for scalable growth.”
Sarah Ruff, Sports Coordinator at University of Buckingham, added: “It’s been fantastic to have had coaching support over the past six months, especially now with support across both first teams as our new Women’s team develops.
“Over the last few months, there has been a high level of progression, not only in their skills and game sense, but also with team spirit and understanding a sense of purpose. They’ve really enjoyed the style of coaching provided, and we look forward to continuing this relationship.”
Richard Harding, Competitive Sports Officer at University of Bedfordshire, commented: “Support is given to our university teams both on and off the field by providing quality coaches, skills sessions and even providing upskilling opportunities for our teams to lead sessions themselves.
“Our link has existed for a number of years and straightaway our teams saw an uplift; so much so that we actually won the league undefeated in that first season. I don’t believe that would have likely happened if it wasn’t for the standard of coaching provided. Our relationship continues to develop and grow.”
We are proud of our working relationships with both universities and look forward to strengthening these even further into the future. If you too would like to discuss the wide array of resources Blues Foundation have access to, please contact tom@bluesfoundation.org.uk or adam@bluesfoundation.org.uk.
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