Dear U15 U16 Coaches,
I hope you’re well.
You are receiving this email as a valued schoolteacher or community club coach within the Northampton Saints region. We are now welcoming nominations for the 2026–2027 Foundation Phase, which is the primary entry point into the Northampton Saints Academy Pathway for U15 and U16 players (school years 10 and 11).
We would greatly appreciate your support in identifying players who demonstrate outstanding potential. When nominating, please ensure that players meet at least one of the following eligibility criteria:
- Attend a school within the Northampton Saints catchment area
- Are registered with a rugby club within the catchment area
- Have a home address within the catchment area
Our catchment area includes Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Huntingdonshire, Peterborough & Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire (including Rugby in Warwickshire), and Suffolk & North-East Essex.
Please ensure all nominated players meet these criteria, as those who do not will unfortunately be unable to take part in the programme.
In selecting players, we encourage you to consult with fellow coaches and nominate individuals who stand out among their peers. We are looking for players who show strong rugby ability, physical potential, and excellent character. This includes not only current rugby performance but also athleticism and transferable skills from other sports.
Each age group has a nomination allowance:
- U15: up to three players, plus one “physical potential” nomination
- U16: up to two players (excluding returning players), plus one “physical potential” nomination
If you feel you have more players who should be considered, please feel free to get in touch to discuss further.
Talent ID session dates:
- U16: Weeks commencing 7th and 14th September 2026
- U15: Weeks commencing 21st and 28th September 2026
Sessions will take place across our Foundation Phase centres in Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, and Essex. Players will be invited to attend one or two sessions.
To submit your nominations, please complete the form via the link below:
Northampton Saints Foundation Phase Nomination Form 2026/27 – Fill out form
Please note that you will receive confirmation of submission on the forms immediately after you submit your nominations. We will contact players directly over the summer months with further information and will be in contact with you in due course.
Deadline for nominations is Friday 3rd July 2026 at 5pm, after this date the form will be closed, and you will be unable to submit any further nominations.
If you would like to discuss any players or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Please note, if you are not the appropriate person to manage your school or club nominations, can you pass on to next seasons U15/U16 coaches within your organisation.
Thank you for your continued support in developing young rugby players across the region.
Best wishes
Becki
