August 4, 2017

UOW announces new partnership with Southern Districts Rugby Club

Education pathways and financial support for academically focused footballers will be the focus of a new partnership agreement between the University of Wollongong (UOW) and Southern Districts Rugby Club (SDRC). 

The partnership, announced earlier this week, provides for a range of joint initiatives of mutual benefit, including ongoing education pathways advice for members of SDRC at both senior and junior levels and opportunities for internships and work experience for UOW students. UOW will also provide a number of scholarships to high-achieving players.

The Hon Scott Morrison MP, Federal Treasurer and Member for Cook officially launched the partnership alongside UOW Director of Government Relations Canio Fierrevanti and Southern Districts Rugby Club President John O’Brien last Saturday (29 July).

The launch took place during half time of the First Grade Southern Districts vs Warringah Game at Forshaw Rugby Park, where Southern Districts went on to win 35-28.

Mr Fierravanti said the partnership aimed to strengthen relationships within the wider community.

“UOW has a proud sporting history across a number of codes and local sports competitions and we are pleased to be supporting and collaborating with a club that already has close ties to UOW,” he said.

“We are not only providing financial support to players through the form of scholarships, we are also focusing our efforts on education pathways and strengthening the ties between the local rugby community and our University.”

More than 12 Southern Districts players currently attend UOW.