Welcome to the Rebels Rugby Academy
The Rebels Rugby Academy gives every child in Byron Shire aged 6–16 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.
WEEKLY TRAINING -
WEEKLY TRAINING -
This 10-week development programme is designed to support long-term athlete development for players aged 6–15, focusing on building strong technical foundations while progressively increasing game understanding, confidence, and performance.
The programme is delivered in four progressive phases, ensuring players are challenged appropriately based on age, maturity, and experience. Training content evolves from fundamental skill acquisition to game-based application, allowing players to transfer skills effectively into match situations.
BUILT BY ROHRIG
Their investment provides not only the facilities and resources to grow junior rugby in Byron Shire but also meaningful career pathways for our older players — opening doors to opportunities in construction, apprenticeships, and education.
Several of our juniors have already earned sporting scholarships to schools such as Lindisfarne, St Andrew’s Anglican College, and Ipswich Grammar, showing how rugby can create life-changing opportunities well beyond the field.
Together, we’re building more than a rugby program — we’re building a stronger future for young people in Byron Shire.
The Academy is proudly sponsored by Rohrig Construction, whose support has helped turn our vision into reality.
A long-standing supporter of rugby through their partnerships with West Harbour and Brothers Rugby Club, Rohrig shares our belief that sport has the power to shape young lives.
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.
