Tigers sign Wakelin to boost profile of rugby's other code
Bedford Tigers have taken the first step towards forming the first ever rugby league academy in Bedford after recruiting Paul Wakelin as youth development manager.
The idea of starting a juniors section of the Tigers has been a long term goal for the rugby league club and this year they will finally see that vision become a reality. Wakelin approached the club at the back end of 2010 asking if he could get himself involved and the Tigers jumped at the chance.
A student at the University of Bedfordshire, he plans to use his contacts there to gather a pool of coaches who will integrate local schools and generate rugby league activity amongst the kids.
He has also been in talks with a local schools sports development officer who has supported the idea of putting on a schools competition in the summer.
Wakelin is a product of the Hemel Stags youth system and is very keen to help generate more rugby league in Bedford. He is working alongside members of the RFL and their ‘Try It’ scheme in order to increase participation in the sport and develop a strong foundation for the Tigers.
Chairman Graham Brown said: “I’m delighted to have Paul involved with us. We only have a small team of volunteers running the club and something like this just hasn’t been possible in the past. The future looks bright and hopefully Paul will be able to generate a lot of depth to the Tigers.”
The Tigers are looking to target an under-13s side to kick start the academy with likely fixtures against rivals Northampton, St Ives and possibly a new side from Bletchley too.
To get involved with the Tigers log on to www.bedfordtigers.com and click the contact me link in the menu bar.
