FROM September 2019, York College students will be able to combine studying with rugby league training thanks to a new enterprise established with York City Knights.

The Knights have joined up with the college to launch the York College Knights Rugby Development Centre, which allows 16- to18-year-old learners to combine a range of study options with training and playing.

Students at York College studying all A-level and vocational courses will be able to access the programme - ultimately joining the Knights Player Development pathway.

The programme will officially be launched at York College on Thursday, June 20 at 5.15pm. This will allow prospective students and parents to meet the coaches and get an overview of the programme and how the partnership works.

York City Knights general manager Neil Gulliver said: “We are proud to be a partner in this fantastic opportunity for male and female students.

"For us to partner with a well-respected education provider such as York College will mean students get a high-quality coaching and education experience.

"The potential of this partnership is truly exciting with this programme forming a significant part of our player development pathway for the area."

Knights head coach James Ford said: "This is an exceptional programme for local male and female players to develop their game as part of the Knights, while furthering their education and career opportunities.

"I look forward to seeing this programme working with the exciting local talent in the area."

York College's sports development coordinator Gaz Lee added: “We’re thrilled to be embarking on this partnership with York City Knights.

"With the Knights brand and exceptional on-field performances raising the profile of rugby league in the city of York, we are excited to be joining them on this journey.

"We could immediately see the benefits of being part of this for young people across the college and are excited about what it could become.”

For more information, email Gaz Lee at Glee@yorkcollege.ac.uk.