A new Rugby League development partnership between the University of Hull and Hull FC will further strengthen the city’s player pathway, creating new opportunities for student athletes to progress into the professional game.
Building on a long-standing relationship between the two organisations, the partnership will see the University of Hull Rugby League team train regularly alongside Hull FC’s Reserves side.
This integrated approach will provide student players with access to elite-level coaching and performance environment, bridging the gap between University sport and professional Rugby League.
The University of Hull’s Olympic-standard sports facilities already serve as the training base for Hull FC’s first-team and as the training and playing venue for the club’s Youth (Men’s), Women’s & Girls’, Wheelchair, Physical Disability (PDRL), and Learning Disability (LDSL) teams.
Hull FC legend Danny Houghton will lead the Hull FC Reserve squad for the 2026 season, working closely under the mentorship of Francis Cummins, the club’s Academy & Transition Head Coach. Their involvement will ensure that emerging players continue to receive high-level technical and tactical development in a professional environment.
The University of Hull Rugby League team is currently coached by Sam French, Hull FC’s Head of Community Foundation, and overseen by the University of Hull Sport Performance Manager and former Hull FC player Connor Bower. Together, they will run a programme that aligns University Rugby League performance with Hull FC’s elite youth development pathway.
The University team have started the 2025/2026 academic season strongly, winning 4 out of 4 of their fixtures in the BUCS Men’s Northern Tier 1 league.
“This partnership is another step forward in our commitment to developing local talent and giving players more time to progress,” said Hull FC’s Head of Youth Richard Tate. “It gives more promising young players and late developers within the game the chance to experience a professional environment while continuing their education at a world-class University.”
Connor Bower added, “We’re proud to build on our strong relationship with Hull FC. By working more closely with the club’s Reserve team, we’re providing our students with a clear pathway to progress in Rugby League, both on and off the field.”
The collaboration reinforces the University of Hull’s role as a central hub for Rugby League in the region, combining academic excellence with sporting ambition to nurture the next generation of athletes, coaches and other roles within sport.
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