The Hull Ionians Colts Section provides a clear progression route for the wealth of talent that comes through our Mini/Junior Section into Senior Rugby.
This will be our second season operating a joint U17/U18 Hull Ionians Colts Squad, building on the foundations established last year. The Colts enjoyed an excellent campaign, winning the Shield in the Yorkshire Cup, and we begin this season with a strong and talented playing squad.
Our aim this season is to continue the improvements made over the last year, developing our players both as individuals and as a team while preparing them for the demands of senior rugby. The Colts will compete in both league and cup competitions, providing players with regular opportunities to challenge themselves in a competitive environment.

Developing the Next Generation

A key part of our Colts programme is working closely with the Hull Ionians Senior Coaches. Training opportunities with the senior section will allow our Colts rugby to closely mirror the methods, aims, patterns and objectives of the senior teams.
By creating consistency in coaching and playing philosophy throughout the club, we aim to make the transition from Colts to Senior Rugby as smooth as possible.
We are also developing a player pathway programme, designed to support, develop and retain our talented young players within Hull Ionians as they progress into senior rugby.

Performance, Nutrition & Wellbeing

As part of this pathway, we have already begun providing our players with opportunities that extend beyond the rugby pitch.
Our programme started with a performance, nutrition and wellbeing athlete talk, followed by a strength and conditioning session at the University of Hull, delivered by Andy Morgan-Harrison, Team GB sprinter competing in the 100m and 200m.

Andy has achieved an impressive list of accolades, including:

3rd place at the European Team Championships
2x British 200m Champion
BUCS 200m Champion and Record Holder
Official longlist for two Olympic Games
Commonwealth Games athlete

Andy provided the players with an excellent insight into the mindset, preparation and lifestyle required to perform at a high level.
He is a fantastic role model for our young players, and his key messages around performance, nutrition, wellbeing, discipline and sporting development will form an important part of our wider player pathway.
Our goal is not simply to develop better rugby players, but to help develop well-rounded young athletes who are prepared for the physical, mental and personal demands of senior sport and life beyond Colts rugby.

Develop. Challenge. Retain. Progress.

Andy Morgan-Harrison

Heidi Westerdale said:
"It’s fantastic to see two organisations that I’m incredibly proud to be part of, and genuinely passionate about, coming together to work collaboratively and enhance the future of our young athletes.
By combining the expertise, opportunities and resources of both organisations, we can create a stronger pathway for young people to develop—not only as athletes, but as confident, resilient and well-rounded individuals.
I’m incredibly proud to be involved in bringing these two organisations together and excited about what we can achieve for the future. "

Heidi Westerdale, Operations Manager, University of Hull Business School and MJ Secretary and Colts Manager - Hull Ionians RUFC