An independent rugby body is launching to encourage participation in the code, which has been wavering in recent times.
The International Rugby Academy of Australia (IRAA), originally established in New Zealand by All Black stars Murray Mexted and Sean Fitzpatrick in 2002, kicks off locally in January.
The not- for profit academy will have courses based in Sydney for young boys aged 11-18, and young girls aged 16-18.
“Our fundamental aim at IRAA is to maximise the potential of young Australian rugby talent and to strengthen the pathways and opportunities that are unique to the game of rugby union,” the body says.
It will be supported by Rugby Australia and comes as interest in the sporting code shows signs of decline, in addition to controversy surrounding the game.
Recently, Rugby Australia was forced to sack key player Israel Folau following social media posts deemed homophobic made by the player.
The posts also prompted brands to take action, with Qantas boss Alan Joyce pressuring the governing body to cut ties with Folau and apparel brand Asics pulling the plug on their partnership with Folau at the time.
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