STUDENTS and staff members welcomed players from Wigan Warriors to their school to help develop the academy’s rugby skills.

Before half term, Furness Academy had the pleasure of welcoming the Wigan Warriors Rugby League Academy coaches and community development team to their school.

The visit marked the end of a six-week programme, in which coach Darren Clark has been working with local primary school students to develop their rugby skills.

The six-week programme culminated in a day working with the Wigan Warriors Development team at Furness Academy, with a morning coaching session followed by a mini tournament in the afternoon.

Year 10 students from Furness Academy assisted in the event, providing additional coaching and supporting the rugby matches.

The Wigan team also brought along their Challenge Cup trophy, as current reigning champions of the Cup, after their win over Huddersfield Giants last May.

Students and staff at Furness Academy were given the chance to have their photo taken with the cup during the team’s visit.

Craig Maclean, director of sport at Furness Academy, said the visit marked the start of a ‘growing partnership’ between the school and Wigan Warriors.

He said “It was a brilliant day hosting the team from Wigan and the finale of their recent primary school programme.

“The students enjoyed their photo opportunities with the cup and to meet the development team.

“This marks the start of a growing partnership between ourselves and Wigan Warriors as we continue to make plans for additional events and programmes for our community.

“This will include further training and coaching at our local primary and secondary schools and also some mini rugby festivals in the summer. We are excited about this new partnership and the opportunities it will bring for our students.”