Here at Newcastle Falcons we recognise that rugby is a late specialisation sport and as such many aspiring young players are not quite ready for the rigours of the professional game at the age of 18. We are fortunate to have some exceptionally strong universities and rugby clubs on our doorstep and by linking with Newcastle University we are now able to provide an alternate route to professional sport that stretches beyond the traditional boundaries of the senior academy.

The purpose of the associate academy is to support identified late developers from across our region and pave the way for them to become stars of the future for the Newcastle Falcons. By exposing them to a higher level of training, preparation and competition with our senior squad these players are able to fulfil their academic or vocational ambitions and reach their full sporting potential. In addition, the connections forged across the partnership opens up many opportunities to share best practice and grow the community game.