Posted: 19 July 2026
A new chapter begins at University Campus Doncaster (UCDon) as the Doncaster Knights Rugby Performance Academy unveils an ambitious and exciting squad ready to make its mark in the 2026/27 British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) season.
Blending emerging talent with a proven player development pathway, this year’s intake represents far more than new signings. It highlights the continued growth of a programme that is firmly establishing itself as a leading destination for aspiring student-athletes. With strength and depth across every position, the academy is primed for a campaign built on development, resilience and high performance.
Strength, depth, and opportunity
The 2026/27 squad showcases a powerful balance of physicality, skill, and long-term potential. In the front row, props Troy Tabi, Jack Johnson-Murphy and Eoin Ramsden are joined by hookers Owen Ackerley, Cam Bradshaw, and Sam Clarke, creating a formidable platform at the set piece.
Adding to the engine room, second rows Eddie Cook-Smith and George Williams bring size, presence, and athleticism, while the back row is highly competitive, with Tom Dobinson, Adam Wilson, Harry Homan, Sam Pastural, and current Scotland u19 Rugby League number 15 Fin Davies slotting into the squad to offer energy, versatility, and relentless work rate.
Directing play at fly-half is Harry Cooper, who links with centres Jarel Tabi, Luke Cuthbertson and Finn Clemments, while Harry Slater, Dan Little, and Mike Goode provide additional pace and attacking threat across the back three.
Crucially, this fresh cohort reflects a change in wider recruitment to build connections across the country and ensure a clear and accessible route into elite rugby, with Castle Park serving as the central hub where talent is identified, developed, and allowed to thrive.
More than a programme, but a professional environment
At the heart of the academy is a simple philosophy: train like a professional, study like a champion, and grow as a person. Based at Castle Park, home of Doncaster Knights RFU, players are immersed in an elite rugby environment from day one. Working alongside experienced coaches and benefiting from exposure to current and former professionals, they are challenged to elevate their standards at every opportunity.
From personalised strength and conditioning programmes to specialist sports therapy and performance support, every element of the academy is designed to help players reach their potential. Just as importantly, a strong culture of accountability, respect, and teamwork underpins everything they do.
Adam Lloyd, Head of Performance Sport Academies at DN Colleges Group (DNCG), believes this latest intake reflects the continued evolution of the programme: “We take immense pride in developing more than just athletes; we develop people. By combining elite rugby provision with academic pathways at UCDon, our players gain the skills, resilience, and confidence they need for life beyond the game. Supporting their wellbeing every step of the way ensures they can grow, perform, and thrive in every environment.”
Developing the whole player
What sets the programme apart is its commitment to developing well-rounded individuals, not just rugby players.
Through UCDon, academy members balance their sporting ambitions with higher education, accessing a wide range of academic pathways including degrees, higher apprenticeships and postgraduate study. This dual-career approach equips players with essential life skills, including discipline, resilience, leadership, and time management.
Wellbeing remains a central focus, with dedicated support for mental health, recovery, and personal development ensuring every individual is supported both on and off the field.
A proven pathway to success
The academy’s impact continues to grow across the rugby landscape, with an increasing number of players progressing into the Doncaster Knights first team, as well as first teams across the globe.
Second row Adam Hopkinson is a current standout example; after debuting in early 2023 against Coventry, he has gone on to reach 50 caps for Doncaster Knights.
Recent graduates also continue to impress, with Calvin Mitchell and Will Metcalf helping Rotherham Titans secure promotion back to the RFU Championship this season. Meanwhile, fellow 2024 graduate Julián Leszczynski has progressed to the professional ranks with multiple teams across Europe and South America, recently signing as fly-half for Cobras Brasil Rugby in Super Rugby Americas.
This growing track record underlines the academy’s reputation as a proven pathway into the professional game, particularly for players emerging through local and regional systems connected to Castle Park.
A vision for the future
Adam Lloyd believes this latest intake reflects the continued evolution and ambition of the programme: “This is an incredibly exciting moment for the academy. The talent, attitude, and ambition within this group are outstanding, and it reflects how far the programme has come. What makes this environment special is that it challenges players to grow in every sense, physically, mentally, and academically. They’re not just preparing to compete today; they’re building the foundations for their future. We’re proud to offer a pathway where players can pursue their passion for rugby while achieving a degree, and we’re excited to see this group push each other, raise standards, and create something special this season. For any aspiring players who believe they have the talent, work ethic, and drive to be part of this environment, we want to hear from you. This is a genuine pathway into elite rugby, and an opportunity to develop both on and off the field.”
Players interested in joining the Doncaster Knights Performance Academy can register their interest by contacting the team at performance.academies@dncolleges.ac.uk
