It was announced that City of Oxford College students, Archie McArthur and Greg Fisilau, have signed full-time Senior Academy Contracts with Wasps.
Both players have come through the Wasps Rugby ACE programme run in partnership with the Coventry-based rugby union team at City of Oxford College.
This has been a breakout season for the two players, who have also been included in England U18 squad. They are part of the first year group of student-players to come through the programme at the college.
The City of Oxford College, part of Activate Learning, provide talented young rugby players (aged 16–18) with the opportunity to pursue their chosen academic pathway alongside your rugby ambitions. Students will have the closest experience to professional rugby that any U18 level will receive, competing in the RFU ACE League.
Both Archie and Greg have worked hard to get to this point. Archie, a Loosehead Prop, who also boards at the College, said: “I’m delighted to have signed a Senior Academy contract with Wasps. It’s been a challenging but hugely rewarding 2 years with the ACE programme at the College and with the Junior Academy.
“Having not been part of the Wasps Academy prior to joining the City of Oxford College, I’m extremely grateful for the support of all the staff and players on the ACE programme, as well as my family. Without their support I don’t think I’d have been afforded this opportunity.
“I can’t wait to get started in July and I’m looking forward to the next steps and challenges on the journey.”
Greg Fisilau, a back rower who previously played his club rugby at Oxford Harlequins RFC, where his father Keni coaches, also commented: “I’m grateful for the opportunity to have singed a full-time contract with Wasps. I just can’t wait to get started in July now.”
“The support from the Academy and the College has been second to none and has given me the perfect opportunity to pursue my rugby alongside my education. I’d also like to thank my parents and family for all their support in getting me to this point.”
City of Oxford College Head of Rugby and Wasps Academy Coach, Gareth Harris said: “It’s fantastic news that both Greg and Archie have signed full-time contracts with Wasps. It’s testament to all their hard work and dedication over the last two years and to the quality environment that we’ve create with the College ACE programme.”
The City of Oxford Wasps ACE programme is recruiting talented Year 11 students to join the College in September 2021.
Students can sign up for the upcoming Assessment day on Saturday April 10.
Whether your goal is to become a professional rugby player, move into a coaching or backroom role, or if you believe playing and learning the game in a professional environment can benefit your studies or career in other ways, a place on the Wasps Rugby ACE Programme is for you.
