The Senior Rugby Academy at Coventry Rugby is the final stage in a player’s development pathway before entering the professional game. It is designed for ambitious, high-potential athletes aged 18 and above who are transitioning from junior rugby into the senior ranks. Combining elite training standards with exposure to the demands of the adult game, the Senior Academy provides a competitive, high-performance environment where players can refine their skills, grow physically and mentally, and prepare for the rigours of professional rugby.
2025 Senior Academy Players:
Senior Academy Intake 2025
We are extremely proud to announce the club’s first Senior Academy intake, marking the conclusion of an outstanding 2024/25 season. These young men have all represented our U18 side this year and embody the quality and potential within our region.
Transitioning from the academy’s U18 side into senior training opportunities in recent weeks, they have worked hard and fitted in well under the guidance of Alex Rae and the senior coaching staff.
The challenge now is for them to become trailblazers — to work hard, transition into senior rugby, and forge a path for next season’s graduates to follow.
Joe Johnston (Fullback) Leamington RFC’s own, Joe is a Coventry local and lifelong fan who co-captained our U18 side this season. A tenacious full-back with outstanding aerial ability and a well-rounded skill set. A product of Leamington RFC and North Leamington School, aged 18.
Taio Varndell (Winger) This caps off a brilliant season for our electric U18 finisher. Taio crossed the whitewash in every game he played and his pace and footwork are set to continue lighting up Butts Park Arena. A product of Coalville RFC and BMC, aged 17.
Sam Gibson (Tighthead Prop) Sam combines a hunger for scrummaging with relentless work rate and powerful carrying ability. A highly promising young tight-head who grew throughout the U18 programme and has recently impressed in senior training. Still only 17, we look forward to watching Sam’s journey continue. A product of Longton RUFC and BMC, aged 17.
Sam Harding (Lock) A breakthrough season for the dynamic second-rower, Sam has balanced appearances for Kenilworth RFC 1st XV and Solihull School with real maturity. A lineout leader and all-action presence around the park. A product of Kenilworth RFC and Solihull School, aged 18.
Matty Thomas (Hooker) Matty has transitioned from centre to hooker, bringing explosive ball-carrying and line-breaking ability with him. He’s embraced the positional switch with enthusiasm, and we’re excited by his ongoing development as a front-rower. A product of Daventry RFC and City of Oxford College, aged 17.
Harry Ingram (Inside Centre) Harry began with Camp Hill RFC and has developed through some of the country’s top rugby environments, including Bromsgrove School, Midlands West, and Hartpury College. A truly triple threat — capable of carrying, kicking, and connecting play. A product of Camp Hill RFC and Hartpury College, aged 17.
Drew Johnson (Flanker) An abrasive, hard-hitting back row forward with huge influence on both sides of the ball. Drew had a standout U18 season and also contributed to our victorious U23 side earlier in the year where he underlined his potential as a leading local prospect. A product of Daventry RFC and City of Oxford College, aged 18.
Will Smith (Flanker / Lock) Will captained Leicester Tigers U18s and led Denstone College at the Global Schools Challenge, which included fixtures against Grey College (SA). A late addition to our U18 campaign, Will has impressed while on trial and earned his place in the Senior Academy with all-action displays in our senior setting. A product of Lichfield RFC and Denstone College, aged 18.
