Welcome to the Rebels Rugby Academy

The Rebels Rugby Academy gives every child in Byron Shire aged 7–16 the chance to learn, play, and enjoy rugby in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. Rugby builds confidence, teamwork, respect, and resilience — skills that stay with kids well beyond the field.

With the Rugby World Cup coming to Australia in 2027, it’s the perfect time to grow the game locally. The Academy is leading that movement by helping new players pick up a ball for the first time, develop through quality coaching, and progress from grassroots to representative levels.

We deliver rugby through three accessible pathways:

Schools Programs, Holiday Camps, and a Weekly Academy Training.

Whether your child is just starting or already striving for more, the Rebels Rugby Academy helps them build skills, friendships, and confidence that last a lifetime.

SCHOOLS
CAMPS
TRAINING
JOIN THE ACADEMY

Meet REECE

Reece Bartlett is Head Coach of the Rebels Rugby Academy and works three days a week in the community, driving participation in rugby union across the Byron Shire.

A former Community Development Officer with Nottingham Rugby and Plymouth Albion, Reece combines professional experience with a passion for grassroots development. Under his leadership, the Academy is not only building better rugby players — it’s building better young people.

 FAQs

  • Not at all! Most of our players start as complete beginners. Our coaches make sessions fun, inclusive, and age-appropriate.

  • Yes — safety is our top priority. We start with non-contact Tag Rugby and only introduce tackling when players are ready and confident.

  • A water bottle, boots, and mouthguard. Everything else — balls, cones, bibs — we provide.

  • Absolutely! Rugby is for everyone. We run mixed programs and dedicated girls’ development sessions throughout the year.

  • No — the Rebels Rugby Academy is open to all children across the Byron Shire, regardless of which club or school they play for. Our goal is to help every young person develop their skills, confidence, and love for the game.

Contact us

Whether your child is picking up a rugby ball for the first time or looking to take their game to the next level, the Rebels Rugby Academy is here to help.

Our team can answer any questions about programs, registration, training schedules, or how to get involved.