Introduction

The University of Oxford is keen to attract the best academic talent to its “dreaming spires” as possible, irrespective of the background or financial means of the students involved. Despite this equal opportunities access policy and the work of the ‘target schools’ scheme, there is an under-representation of students at Oxford from the traditional rugby league heartland.

OURLFC suffers from this under-representation insofar as its pool of available players is limited and its initial skill levels, as a result, are not as high as they should be.

The Future

Over the next five years we want to expand the club. We already have excellent facilities and a first rate coaching team in place. The aim is to be able to field two competitive men's teams each week, along with a women's side. We believe the most effective way this can be achieved is by increasing the core number of experienced Rugby League players in our squad.

OURLFC Scholarships

The OURL scholarship scheme has been set up to provide financial support to two students applying to Oxford with an interest in Rugby League. The initial scholarship amount has been set at £1000 per year for the duration of the scholar's university course. Applications are not restricted merely to players, but also to qualified coaches and physiotherapists. The Club believes that these scholarships will encourage an increase in applications from traditional rugby league playing areas.

Conclusion

The introduction of OURLFC Scholarships should have two direct benefits - bringing Rugby league experience to Oxford, and helping to make Oxford University more accessible to those who excel at Rugby League.

 

If you are interested in applying for a Rugby League Scholarship, please download and complete the application form and send to:

Rugby League Scholarships,

University of Oxford Sports Department

Iffley Road, Oxford

OX41EQ