Introducing Aspire Academy: Elevating Rugby in the Netherlands

Rugby enthusiasts, brace yourselves! The Netherlands is about to witness a groundbreaking shift in rugby development with the launch of Aspire Academy. Founded by Gareth Gilbert, Tjadde van Vondelen, and Iemke Roos, Aspire Academy aims to revolutionize the rugby landscape in the country.

A Hub of Excellence

Located at the iconic Olympisch Stadion in Amsterdam, Aspire Academy is set to become the epicenter of high-performance rugby training and education. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and guided by a team of top-notch coaches, the academy is poised to nurture the next generation of rugby talent in the Netherlands.

Partnerships for Progress

Collaboration lies at the heart of Aspire Academy’s ethos. With strategic partnerships with Rugby Netherlands, Dutch Rugby Academies, and the prestigious SAS in Stellenbosch, South Africa, Aspire Academy is laying down a solid foundation for success. These partnerships provide access to invaluable resources and expertise, ensuring a holistic approach to player and coach development.

Programs Tailored for Excellence

Aspire Academy offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to players and coaches of all levels. From youth development initiatives to elite training camps, there’s something for everyone at Aspire Academy. Let’s delve into some of the flagship programs:

  1. ENTC (Excel National Training Centre): This flagship program offers an immersive rugby experience for aspiring players who have completed existing academies or are part of the Junior Dutch national teams. With a rigorous training regimen complemented by academic opportunities at the Johan Cruyff College and Academy, amongst others, ENTC sets the stage for comprehensive player development.
  2. CPD (Continuous Personal Development) Programs: Coaches looking to hone their skills can benefit from Aspire Academy’s CPD programs. Led by seasoned experts, these masterclasses delve into the intricacies of modern coaching techniques, providing invaluable insights to aspiring coaches like never before.
  3. High-Performance Camps: Designed for players aiming to take their game to the next level, these camps offer intensive training sessions led by elite coaches. Participants can expect to sharpen their skills and gain invaluable knowledge from industry leaders, all while immersed in a professional training environment.
  4. International Pathway: Through an exclusive collaboration with SAS in Stellenbosch, Aspire Academy offers aspiring players the opportunity to undergo training abroad. The renowned SASRII program opens doors for international talent, providing a pathway to elite-level rugby on a global scale.

Meet the Masterminds

At the helm of Aspire Academy are Gareth Gilbert, Tjadde van Vondelen, and Iemke Roos – visionaries with a passion for rugby and a drive for excellence. With a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to rugby development, this dynamic trio is dedicated to realizing Aspire Academy’s ambitious goals.

Looking Ahead

Behind the scenes, a team of seasoned coaches stands ready to guide and inspire the next generation of rugby stars. From technical wizards to strategic masterminds, each coach brings a unique set of skills and expertise to the table, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience for all participants.

Aspire Academy’s journey has only just begun, but the impact is already palpable. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a vision for the future, Aspire Academy is poised to elevate rugby in the Netherlands to unprecedented heights. Join us on this thrilling journey as we embark on a quest for greatness – together, we’ll shape the future of rugby in the Netherlands and beyond.