Ealing’s Trailfinders Women have announced a partnership with Hereford Sixth Form College which aims to nurture the next generation of female rugby players.
The new collaboration creates a direct route into the Ealing Trailfinders University Academy at Brunel University, offering students the opportunity to combine academic excellence with top-level rugby development.
Both organisations say they share a “player-first” ethos, focusing on supporting young athletes with the coaching, education and resources required to reach the professional game.
The programme promises early exposure to high-level competition with a structured progression into BUCS Super Rugby – the UK’s top university league, where Brunel now competes.
Ben Parfitt, head of women’s rugby at Hereford Sixth Form College, said: “We are really excited to partner with such an ambitious and forward-thinking rugby programme. Their values truly resonated with us, particularly their “player-first” approach – a philosophy that has always been at the heart of what we do.”
He added: “This new partnership with Trailfinders Women, through Brunel University, will provide a clear and exciting pathway into an elite Premiership environment. We can now offer our players another level of external support both on and off the field, alongside an exceptional educational setting – helping them thrive as athletes and individuals.”
Emma Cooper, women’s academy & pathway manager at Trailfinders, commented: “Hereford Sixth Form College is a great environment for aspirational rugby players to develop, learn and achieve. We’re excited to partner with an institution that not only values academic excellence, but also understands the importance of nurturing young female athletes in a supportive and empowering environment.
“At Trailfinders, we’re committed to building a pathway that truly works for girls and women in rugby—providing meaningful opportunities at every stage, from grassroots to elite level. Our pathway is more than just rugby to us, it’s about developing well rounded individuals who can thrive in both sport and life. This partnership is a big step forward for the women’s game, and we are excited to see what the future holds.”
