Bears launch strategic relationship with University of Bristol

Bristol Bears is delighted to launch a new strategic relationship with the University of Bristol aimed at developing and enhancing the provision of elite rugby performance programmes in both the men’s and women’s game.

The collaboration will see the establishment of a joint coaching provision between the club and the university, with the aim of achieving promotion to the BUCS Super League and providing excellent rugby performance provision across the men’s and women’s pathways.

Bears and University of Bristol Rugby Club will build on a historic relationship that has seen the likes of Dave Attwood, Sam Jeffries, Simi Pam, Ella Lovibond and Phoebe Murray join from the university pathway.

Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “We’ve seen at Bears and across the Premiership the amount of talent that has graduated through the BUCS Super Rugby competition in the last few seasons, including our very own Fitz Harding and previously Sam Jeffries, so this new strategic relationship with University of Bristol is a hugely important one.

“With a joint coaching provision between the club and the university and a clear stated aim of helping University of Bristol to achieve promotion to the BUCS Super League, we’re excited by the potential of this new venture.”

Bears Academy Manager Alex Guest said: “The project offers a unique opportunity for talented individuals within the university to receive professional coaching and training, providing them with a pathway to develop their skills to potentially join the Bristol Bears or into other High Performance Rugby environments.

“The initiative not only enhances the calibre of players but also strengthens the overall rugby footprint within the city and surrounding area.”



Director of Sport at University of Bristol, Matt Birch, said: “Collaborating will support both organisations to identify and nurture talent not just locally but also provide opportunities for individuals UK-wide and across the world.

“This strategic relationship creates a robust recruitment pipeline that benefits both the university’s rugby programme and Bristol Bears as we strive to enhance the overall sporting culture in Bristol. By working together, we can inspire the next generation of athletes and contribute to the city’s reputation as a hub for sporting excellence.”