Monday, 21 September 2026 12:01
Cornwall College Rugby Academy debuted its new kit before securing a 28–10 victory over Truro School.
The win marked a strong start to the season for the new academy, which launched at Cornwall College Camborne earlier this year, giving 16 to 18-year-olds the opportunity to develop their rugby alongside their studies.
The new kit marks the latest step for the academy, through a partnership between Cornwall College, FLX and Camborne Rugby Club. It brings together education, expert sporting support and grassroots rugby to create opportunities for young players to develop on and off the pitch.
Students can study any course at Cornwall College Group whilst taking part in rugby training and developing their fitness, game awareness and wider skills through strength and conditioning, performance analysis, nutrition, rehabilitation and wellbeing support.
For Head Coach Josh Matavesi, the academy is an opportunity to bring his experience of professional and international rugby to the next generation of players in Cornwall. He said: “What a fantastic game it was. To see the players step out in their new kit, represent Cornwall College and then come away with a 28–10 win against Truro School was a brilliant way to start the season.”
Head of Rugby Matt Shepherd said: “The academy is designed to become part of the wider Cornish rugby community.
“This is about creating a strong pathway for young players and connecting education with the clubs, coaches and opportunities already available across Cornwall. Seeing the students in their new kit makes that pathway feel very real. They are representing Cornwall College, but they are also becoming part of the wider rugby community here in Cornwall, and we’re excited to see where that takes them.”
The academy forms part of Cornwall College’s designated enrichment programme, allowing students to develop interests and skills outside their main course.
Luke Bazeley, Head of Cornwall College Camborne, said: “The Rugby Academy is a fantastic way for our students to enrich their college experience through something they are passionate about. The designated enrichment period gives students the chance to develop skills beyond their main programme of study, and rugby provides a brilliant environment for building confidence, teamwork, discipline and leadership.”
The partnership with FLX and Camborne Rugby Club also connects the academy with the local rugby community, giving students access to expertise and experience beyond the classroom.
Tanya Thomas, Head of Commercial & Partnerships at FLX, said: “We’re delighted to be involved and to support the college as the academy develops, both in the rugby programme and in the wider growth of these students as players and individuals.”
“FLX – Fan Led X – is built around people. We deliver smarter, safer and more resilient sports and event operations through tech-enabled experiences that improve flow, reduce friction and strengthen the guest journey from arrival to exit. By supporting the Cornwall College Rugby Academy, FLX is bringing our core belief into action, improving experiences by putting people first. It’s a very exciting time for the academy and for FLX,” Tanya continued.
It has already been a great start to the season for the academy, with Cornwall College securing a 28–10 win against Truro School in their opening fixture. The team will now continue to build on that start as they take their new colours onto the pitch for the season ahead.
To find out more about courses available at your local outstanding college, visit cornwall.ac.uk
Cornwall College Rugby Academy Wins 28-10 in New Kit