Duke of Cambridge to launch Coach Core scheme for Welsh apprentices

The Duke of Cambridge will launch a programme for Welsh apprentices hoping to become the coaches of tomorrow.

William's Royal Foundation has awarded funding to the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) to run a one-year Coach Core initiative for 12 young people to learn the skills to become professional sports trainers.

Coach Core was created by The Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry in 2012 as part of the Olympic Legacy programme.

It provides an intense training programme for 16 to 24-year-olds, many from disadvantaged social backgrounds, to become qualified coaches and inspire their peers.

Over the coming months the 12 apprentices will work in schools and rugby clubs in their local communities across south-east Wales.

During the visit to the National Sport Centre in Cardiff the Duke will meet some of the Coach Core apprentices involved in the WRU programme and watch their training drills.

He will also meet some of the people who have been instrumental in the delivery of the project including the WRU's chairman Gareth Davies and head of rugby and former Rugby World Cup winner with England Josh Lewsey.

Wales are riding high after their victory over England in their Rugby World Cup group match at the weekend, and William, the WRU's vice royal patron, will watch them play Fiji at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

Mr Davies said: "We are delighted to have received the support of The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry to enable us to set up this exciting new programme.

"The WRU Coach Core apprenticeship scheme is a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain new skills and experience within the field of rugby and sports coaching.

"It will open doors, not only for the apprentices themselves, but also for all those they engage with on a community level during the 12-month programme."