A full season of mentoring, workshops and hands-on opportunities has seen 20 coaches progress through the Northampton Saints Community Coach Development Programme.
The pathway – which is now open for applicants for 2026/27 by clicking HERE – was designed two years ago to help aspiring coaches grow their craft and take meaningful steps into the rugby workforce.
Delivered through two strands – female only and 16-23‑year‑olds – the programme has proven to be a powerful route into employment.
Several participants have already transitioned into paid coaching roles within Saints’ Community Department, reflecting both their commitment and the quality of support provided.
Saints Rugby Development Officer Matty Wainwright praised the dedication shown by this year’s cohort. He said: “To have so much success this year has been down to the commitment and buy‑in from the young people on the programme and their willingness to utilise our time and the opportunities we’ve provided.
“Mentoring and working with them has been easy and enjoyable, and that only comes from the work they are putting into their own development.”
Women & Girls Rugby Development Officer Tabitha Banks, said: “The female strand was the first strand we launched two years ago, in line with our plans around RWC 2025, and to have seen growth in that group and the continued support for aspiring female coaches has been really rewarding to be involved in.”
Two standout success stories from this year include Ella Harris (female only) and Grayson Boath (16–23). Both have embraced the opportunity for guidance, excelled in their development, and are now regular members of the Saints Community coaching workforce.
Grayson said: “I really enjoyed the coach development course as it gave me opportunities to improve my coaching skills in different environments, and you get to see experienced coaches during sessions and see how they coach. My favourite bit was when Sam Vesty came in to talk about feedback. This session was a big eye-opener for me, as I was able to see a weakness in my feedback skills, as I was very blunt when giving feedback. I have now been able to improve on my feedback skills, and this has helped me as a coach.”
Ella added: “The programme has been a truly empowering experience. It has strengthened my confidence, expanded my knowledge, and given me the belief to grow as a coach. Being surrounded by and learning alongside inspiring women has motivated me to step outside my comfort zone and pursue new opportunities with confidence.”
Applications are now live for the 2026/27 Coach Development Programme. For more information, please click HERE.