Category : Front Page News

Club Doncaster Sports College hosted partners DN Colleges Group (Doncaster College and North Lindsey College) for their annual varsity day at the Eco Power Stadium yesterday in glorious sunshine.

The event, which gave 93 sports students the opportunity to ‘play on the pitch’ at the home of Doncaster Rovers FC. The Varsity comprises men’s and women’s matches between the two colleges, as well as a Club Doncaster Sports College in-house game.

Game 1 – Ladies Varsity

DN Colleges arrived at the Eco-Power Stadium as current Varsity champions and looking for back to back victories over the Sports College Ladies Academy. The game started at a frantic pace with both sides calving out good chances in the early stages, but after 20 minutes, the deadlock was broken when Chloe Anderson capitalised after a set-piece was only half cleared and the forward was on hand to slot the ball home. After the goal, Club Doncaster Sports College Ladies settled into the game and Anderson was on the scene again to claim her second and then spectacular third in a quick fire hattrick to make it 3:0. Another veteran, Mille Croft, then came into the game, matching Anderson with three unanswered goals, all of which were excellent finishes, leaving Cusworth in the DN Colleges net, little chance of preventing them. With the clock running down, DN Colleges claimed an audacious consolation goal which turned out to be the goal of the day and made the score 6:1. In a wonderful moment of footballing poetic licence, captain, record appearance holder and Sports College veteran, Ellie Mortimer, in the final minute of her final appearance for CDSC finished off a superb passage of play to claim the seventh and final goal for CDSC, who ran out 7:1 winners, claiming the Varsity title for 2023.

Darran Collington, Women’s Coach for DN Colleges said, “It was a fantastic pleasure to be involved in such a tremendous experience. The students had an experience of a lifetime, which has been an amazing reward for their behaviour and commitment throughout the season. Thank you so much for having us.”

Game 2 – Men’s Varsity

Club Doncaster Sports College Men’s 1st XI came into the Varsity game against DN Colleges with a perfect record of 5 wins out of 5, but knew they would face a stern test against a talented and experienced DN Colleges side. After a cagey opening, the Sports College scored a goal against the run of play through Graves, then a quick fire brace from Swaby, followed by a Holdcroft strike saw CDSC settle into the game. A 5th goal was scored by Graves, to complete his brace and soon after, Willard made it 6:0, and seemingly all over, however, DN Colleges had other ideas. A penalty for DN College just before half time offered some hope and this was followed by another penalty conversion just after half time and then a fine solo effort had the Sports College on its heels. The turning point in the second half came as DN Colleges hit the bar with a fantastic effort and Will Gomes from the Sports College popped up at the other end shortly after to slot home for 7:3. In the final 10 minutes, Ashton Jacques scored to make the lead unassailable and the Sports College retained the trophy for another year.

Danny Boast, Men’s Coach for DN Colleges said, “The varsity was a huge success again! Although the result didn’t go in our favour again, we closed the gap and gave the players memories they won’t forget! The club Doncaster staff have an amazing set up and we hope we can continue this amazing relationship moving forward!”

Game 3 – Inter-Sports College Varsity

Two squads of 15 Sports College students faced off against each other in a bid to claim the Patrick Queen Trophy. In a game played in a fantastic spirit, the Blues had an opportunity to go ahead via captain, Matthew Thompson, but his penalty was brilliantly saved by Ryan Roe. Shortly after the penalty miss, the Blues edged ahead with an astute finish from Harry Westron; this would prove to be the first of a hattrick for the first year marksman. A goal from Weston looked to have made the game safe for the Blues, but Nemet and Christie reduced the arrears, and but for a string of excellent saves from Aarlan Kitching, the score could have been very different. At the death, Liam Rouse scored a penalty in his final game for the college to seal the win and with it, the trophy. Final score at the Eco-Power, 5:2.

Adi Turnpenny, Principal of Club Doncaster Sports College, said: ‘The Varsity gave the students a once in a lifetime opportunity to play on the Eco-Power Stadium pitch and it was an event enjoyed by all.’ He added, ‘It was also a chance to celebrate the fantastic partnership between Club Doncaster Sports College and DN Group’.

Rebecca Pariff, DN Colleges Curriculum Lead for Sport and Animal Care, “I really enjoyed it on Wednesday, all our students and staff had an amazing day and it was such a great memorable experience. Thank you so much for organizing it all and allowing us to share it with Club Doncaster. To see all the dedicated women and men on the pitch was such a special occasion and one I hope to be involved in many more times in the future”.

Students had a matchday experience worthy of the first team including use of home and away changing rooms, lining up in the players tunnel, matchday media and even a matchday programme. The honours on the day belonged to Club Doncaster Sports College, winning the Men’s trophy and Ladies trophy but, more importantly, it was a day where lasting memories were made for all the students involved.

For more details about Club Doncaster Sports College, visit www.clubdoncastersportscollege.co.uk or call 01302 764663.

Club Doncaster Sports College are pleased to announce Doncaster Rovers’, Luke Molyneux as Education Ambassador for the 22/23 season.

Alongside Luke; Adam Clayton, George Miller, Jon Taylor, Joseph Olowu, Kyle Hurst, Kyle Knoyle have all been chosen to represent the Foundation within different areas of work that they feel best suits them.

Luke will work with the Sports College on various projects, in supporting and promoting throughout the course of the season.

Having Luke as an ambassador will allow students the opportunity to engage with one of their favourite players off of the pitch, and to showcase the activities that are delivered on a weekly basis.

CEO of the Foundation, John Davis, commented “We are delighted to welcome our new player ambassadors for the 22/23 season. The connection between our players and our communities is an integral part of what we do at the Foundation on a daily basis, so to have the players support is vital.

“Together we’ll be able to help more people and improve lives across Doncaster.”

Club Doncaster Foundation are proud to support our local community in various outreach projects. To find out more about our projects, please contact 01302 764663.

Over 40 sports college students got a once in a lifetime opportunity to be ball crew for the Rugby League World Cup fixtures held at the Eco-Power Stadium last month. 

The Eco-Power Stadium saw a number of international teams take to the pitch over the course of a couple of weeks. France took on Greece on October 17, Samoa were victorious in a comfortable win against Greece on October 23, with the final game taking place between PNG and Wales on October 31.

The students were ball crew for all three games, on hand to distribute rugby balls throughout each game, allowing for smooth transitions and minimal breaks in play. In addition, they were also flag bearers for all the nations in the opening ceremony parade.

One student, who volunteered their time, Ben Barton, currently a BTEC Level 3 Year 13 student, said, “It was a real buzz to be part of the Ball Crew for the Rugby League World Cup. 

“As a huge fan of rugby league, to be so close to the benches and the on-field action was amazing. I was literally yards from Samoa performing the Siva Tau, which was definitely a highlight.”

Ben Thompson, Deputy Principal of Club Doncaster Sports College, spoke of having students from the College on hand to support the world cup, “At the Sports College, we were delighted that our students were able to experience and play such a big part in three world class events here at the stadium.

“Our students being Ball Crew, highlights the excellent links we have with professional rugby league in the Doncaster area and exhibits our commitment to offering meaningful, tangible work experience opportunities in sport for our learners. 

“We’d like to say a huge ‘well done’ to everyone who volunteered for the games and allowed them to flow seamlessly.”

Want to be part of the Sports College and get to experience opportunities like this? Applications are now open for 23/24 academic year. Visit https://clubdoncastersportscollege.co.uk/apply/ or 01302 764663 for more info.

Club Doncaster Sports College students are celebrating an outstanding set of results after achieving a 100% pass rate across all sport qualifications for this past year.

102 students, aged 16-19, contributed to the results which capped another remarkable year for the Sports College based at the Eco-Power Stadium.

Five students attained D*D*D* on the level 3 BTEC in Sports Coaching and Development qualification – the highest possible grade – amongst many fine achievements.

All first-year level 2 students attained qualified Gym Instructor status and all second-year students have become accredited Personal Trainers as part of their courses.

Principal, Adi Turnpenny said “We are absolutely delighted with the results which reward the hard work of the students who have performed fantastically both inside and outside of the classroom all year.

“This is another year in which the College has achieved an outstanding set of results of which our incredible staff are extremely proud.

“I’d like to wish all graduates the best of luck in the future and we look forward to welcoming our new students and those returning to us for a second year in September.”

Many of the level 3 BTEC graduates will continue their studies by progressing into higher education with the College, studying specialist sports degrees run in partnership with Doncaster College.”

Student Ellie Mortimer, who achieved D*D*D*, said, “I am delighted with my results and am grateful for the support I have received from staff. I am looking forward to staying on and studying the degree in Physical Education and Sports Coaching in September.”

Club Doncaster Sports College also contributed to the recent OFSTED of DN Colleges Group which saw the college achieve an overall grade of ‘good’ with four areas graded ‘outstanding.’

Alongside all academic programmes, students have the opportunity to represent Doncaster Rovers FC and Doncaster Rovers Belles FC in approved EFL Leagues, gain experiences with the Dons RLFC, and enjoy a host of other sports.

The College has a waiting list open for this September and is also taking applications for academic year 23/24.

To apply or find out more details about Club Doncaster Sports College, visit www.clubdoncastersportscollege.co.uk or call 01302 764663

Sports College student, Bobby Faulkner has recently signed a new two-year deal with Doncaster Rovers, after signing his first pro contract last November through progressing within Doncaster Rovers Academy.

Bobby is in his final year with the Sports College and is due to complete his BTEC Level 3 in Sport, this July. During his time at the college, Bobby has taken part in numerous foundation activities, including the annual Varsity cup and the NCS programme.

Throughout this academic year, Bobby has spent large amounts of time within the professional football environment but has continued to work hard with his academic work with the Sports College, providing continued updates on his coursework and utilising the help of the tutors when needed.

He has continued to attend college to ensure his work is up to date and completed to the highest standard, in the time when professional footballers are relaxing after the end of the season, prior to next seasons preparations.

Club Doncaster Sports College lecturer, Nathan Fawley said, “Bobby has continued to remain dedicated to his studies throughout this year, even when he’s had two big plates to spin with his professional football and academic studies.”

“Bobby is a popular student and works well with his classmates. There is a real buzz from his classmates with the news of his new contract.”

“Lot’s of our students have played with or against Bobby in their time at college. It’s been great to see the support that he has had from all.”

“It’s been an absolute pleasure to teach Bobby and play a small part in his journey. His attitude and story serves as inspiration to current and future students of the Sports College.”

Speaking of the Sports College’ support, Faulkner said, “Since signing for Doncaster Rovers, Club Doncaster Sports College have been very flexible and fully supportive of my progression into professional football.”

“I can only thank them for their understanding of my career and allowing me to adapt my college work and study around my footballing schedule.”

For more information on the Sports College and courses on offer, please visit the Sports College website: www.clubdoncastersportscollege.co.uk

Club Doncaster Sports College hosted partners DN Colleges Group (Doncaster College and North Lindsey College) for their annual varsity day at the Eco Power Stadium earlier this month.

The event, which gave 88 sports students the opportunity to ‘play on the pitch’ at the home of Doncaster Rovers FC, compromised of men’s and women’s matches between the two colleges as well as a Club Doncaster Sports College in-house game.

Adi Turnpenny, Principal of Club Doncaster Sports College, said: ‘It was a fantastic day in which we celebrated the partnership between the two colleges. A huge well done to all the students who took part in the three matches, all of which were played in an excellent spirit, in front of parents, friends and staff from both colleges.’

Students had a matchday experience worthy of the first team including use of home and away changing rooms, lining up in the players tunnel, matchday media and even a matchday programme. Doncaster Rovers Belles Manager, Andy Butler, refereed the men’s match and Doncaster Rovers First Team Goalkeeper Coach, Steve Hernandez, presented the trophies.

Kate McDonald, Director of FE Curriculum at DN Colleges Group, added ‘It was a fantastic day at the Eco Power Stadium, where we saw a showcase of some of the best talent, collaboration, and teamwork by all involved. It was an experience that students will never forget and a time for parents and friends to be proud of those who took to the pitch.

A huge thank you to our partners Club Doncaster Sports College who were amazing hosts and continue to embrace and grow our partnership from strength to strength.’

Honours were shared on the day with Club Doncaster Sports College winning the men’s trophy and DN Colleges Group winning the women’s trophy but, more importantly, it was a day where lasting memories were made for all the students involved.

For more details about Club Doncaster Sports College, visit www.clubdoncastersportscollege.co.uk or call 01302 764663.

Ben Howe, former Sports College student and current Club Doncaster Foundation community coach, gained his first start for the Dons in 2022 last weekend, in their first victory since the start of the Betfred League One campaign. Alongside starting, Ben also scored his first professional try and was awarded the man of the match for his impressive performance.

Ben has been a part of the Club Doncaster group for a number of years, partaking in a range of courses through the Sports College, before signing a professional contract with the Dons. Alongside the Dons, Ben is currently enrolled as a current student with University Centre – Doncaster, based at the Eco-Power Stadium, while also delivering sports sessions at schools within the local area, for Club Doncaster Foundation.

Deputy Principal, Head of Further Education, Ben Thompson spoke about his delight of seeing the remarkable achievement of Ben; “The Sports College staff are delighted to see the hard work Ben is putting in, off the pitch, translating on the pitch.

“His attitude within the classroom around the other students is always fantastic. Before signing for his pro contract, he played a pinnacle part for the Dons Academy team and was named the academy captain.

“His achievements highlight the direct link that the Sports College has with the professional clubs here at Club Doncaster and sets a precedent for other students to hopefully gain the opportunity to build their own pathway into professional sports too.’

Speaking of the vital link between the Sports College and the Dons, CEO Carl Hall commented, “Everyone at the Don’s is thrilled for Ben being named man of the match on his first start in 2022.

“Ben signed for the Dons as a result of his performances within the Club Doncaster Sports College rugby league academy, as a student. Having the pathway available for local young people to progress into a professional setting is essential, and Ben’s story shows how this is possible and what can be achieved with the right work ethic and attitude.”

Club Doncaster Sports College students are celebrating another incredible year of success with a 100% pass rate across all qualifications. 

127 students contributed to the fantastic results which capped another remarkable year for Club Doncaster Sports College since it was established in 2008 at the Eco-Power Stadium.

Principal, Adi Turnpenny, commented: “We are absolutely delighted with the results and, in this most challenging of years, that students have completed all courses with the skills and knowledge to progress.

“The results are a credit to the adaptability, resilience and hard work of the students and the incredible staff that support them.

“I’d like to wish all graduates the best of luck in the future and we look forward to welcoming our new students and those returning to us for a second year in September.”

Many of the level 3 BTEC graduates will continue their studies by progressing into higher education with the College, studying specialist sports degrees run in partnership with Doncaster College. 

All first-year level 2 students who completed attained qualified Gym Instructor status and all second-year students who completed have become accredited Personal Trainers as part of their courses.

Student Ellie Midgley said: “Club Doncaster Sports College has given me the opportunity to pursue my dream career in sport as a physiotherapist.  Achieving D* D* D after all the hard work was 100% worth it. I would highly recommend the college to anyone looking for a career in sport.”

Alongside all academic programmes, students have the opportunity to represent the badge of Doncaster Rovers FC, Doncaster Rovers Belles FC, and the Dons RLFC in EFL/RFL National College leagues, as well as experiencing a host of other sports. 

For more details about Club Doncaster Sports College visit www.clubdoncastersportscollege.co.uk or call 01302 764663.

‘Resilient’ Club Doncaster Sports College students celebrate end of challenging academic year with sports dinner and awards ceremony.  

 Students at Club Doncaster Sports College were welcomed to the Eco-Power Stadium Legends Lounge on Tuesday night where they celebrated the end of the 2020/21 academic year with a sports dinner and awards ceremony. 

 Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, students have enjoyed a year in which they have been studying both in class and at home. This hybrid approach has seen captivating digital learning and online initiatives help the college achieve an ‘outstanding’ 97.7% student retention rate.  

 Adi Turnpenny, principal at Club Doncaster Sports College, has praised the commitment of students and creative thinking of staff to make the year a success.  

Adi said: ‘We are delighted with how we have adapted in an extraordinary year to continue to offer our students the best possible education.   

 “The commitment, creative thinking and skill of our staff has shone through in the most challenging of circumstances for everyone. I would like to thank all the parents for their support and communication in helping us achieve this.”    

“The people who deserve huge credit though are the students.  They have been motivated, resilient and focussed throughout and have continued to produce excellent work both remotely and in college.  These qualities will stand them in good stead for the future and we are proud of them all.” 

The awards ceremony was the first opportunity that the students have had to celebrate their achievements as a group since lockdown restrictions were imposed at the start of the Coronavirus pandemic.  

Ebonie Haver, an active IQ Level 2 student, said: “Throughout this year the Sports College staff have gone above and beyond to make the courses an enjoyable experience. The lessons were always interesting and challenging in the classroom and online and as the restrictions started to lift, we got the chance to play Varsity on the Eco-Power Stadium pitch which was a dream come true.  

“Tonight has just topped off an amazing two years with the college, it’s been so good to see students honoured for their sporting and academic achievements and to do that together as a group has been special.” 

Throughout the year, students enjoyed a number of initiatives such as a virtual trip to London to celebrate Doncaster Rovers’ cup fixture with West Ham, guest lecturers from Royal Marine Commando Chef Mike Beaton and former Emmerdale actress Gemma Oaten, and were also given the chance to support the Doncaster community with NCS social action. 

Josh Halls, a BTEC Level 3 Sport student at the College, said: “The time I have spent at the college has been the best 2 years of my life, I’ve met so many people who I consider now to be my best friends, and we’ve managed to turn a global pandemic into a chance to increase the unity between the class as a whole. 

“I would recommend the sports college to anyone as it help revitalise my chances of higher education to the point where I got accepted into every university I applied for, and it has helped develop my confidence and self esteem so that I felt confident in more situations surrounding my everyday life.” 

Club Doncaster Sports College courses provide a direct pathway to university or a career in the sports industry. 

 Click here to apply in seconds.

Club Doncaster Sports College and Doncaster Rovers Belles are teaming up to provide a fantastic new footballing opportunity for female students studying at the Sports College.

The partnership will see the Club Doncaster Sports College Ladies Academy team compete in the EFL CEFA League under the Belles banner and enhance the development of a direct link between the Sports College and Doncaster Rovers Belles – which will offer a direct pathway into the Belles team whilst players study and represent the Sports College.

With the introduction of the new team, Sports College students will have an opportunity to gain an award winning education whilst participating in a regional senior league against several teams representing WSL clubs.

Club Doncaster Sports College Principal, Adi Turnpenny said: “We are delighted to have cemented this link with the Belles and develop the relationship between our two teams as a part of the Club Doncaster organisation.

“This partnership strikes a perfect balance of quality educational sport pathways, alongside the opportunity for our students to represent the Doncaster Rovers Belles at a competitive level.”

The Belles are passionate about the development of women’s football in the Doncaster area, and keeping local talent in Doncaster teams is key to achieving this goal.

RTC Technical Director, Amanda Greenslade, explains how the partnership will help the Belles achieve their objective to harness local talent: “As a club we are delighted to be able to support our players with both a dual career programme at the Club Doncaster Sports College as well as an additional team that will compete at all levels of the game.

“This is an important step to support our players after our successful RTC programme which finishes at 16 years old. The programmes will bridge the gap between our youth and senior teams as well as supporting players’ educational needs in both further and higher education with the college’s Active IQ, BTEC and degree programmes.”

Club Doncaster Sports College are still taking applications for 2021/22.

Their sports courses provide a direct pathway to university or a career in the sports industry.

Click here to apply in seconds; clubdoncastersportscollege.co.uk/apply/