Rebels commitment to training camps in Ballarat for another two years

The Rebels have formed partnership with St Patrick's College, with the two parties signing a memorandum of understanding.

They reached agreement after the Rebels had a training camp at St Pat’s late last week.

As well as the camp, the Rebels will play a National Rugby Championship game in Ballarat this year.

The second tier competition is played after the Super League season from October to December.

The Rebels plan to foster a close working relationship between St Pat’s, which has an extensive rugby program, and Victorian Country Rugby.

St Pat’s business manager Andrew Ballesty said the college had been impressed by the professionalism of the Rebels throughout their stay in Ballarat.

“We were particularly impressed by the respectful manner in which they used our facilities and engaged with our community.

“We look forward to the mutual benefit that will flow from the partnership,” he said.

Rebels professional rugby and pathways general manager Nick Ryan said the partnership with St Patrick's College and Victorian Country Rugby would ensure the club had an ongoing presence and support in regional Victoria.

“We were overwhelmed by the local support and high performance facilities available to us to ensure a successful pre-season camp in Ballarat last week, so we’re thrilled to commit to the college and city until the end of 2020.

“We have a responsibility to foster the game of rugby in regional Victoria, so we look forward to working closely with associations and clubs to grow the sport and provide development opportunities for local players, coaches and administrators,” he said.

St Pat’s director of rugby Mike Silcock said the partnership would provide immeasurable gains for the college’s rugby program, while highlighting future pathways for those interested in playing rugby beyond their time at school. 

“It will also serve to offer opportunities to many within our community.”

Rebels staff and players will lead coaching clinic for players and coaches in Ballarat, as well as providing ongoing coaching support for St Patrick's College throughout the 2018 season.

The two-day camp in Ballarat last week featured intense training and off-field education.