More Graduates From Leinster’s HETAC Programme
Leinster Rugby have announce this year’s graduates from the province’s HETAC (Higher Education and Training Awards Council) programme. A graduation function was held in the RDS on Wednesday.
Conor McInerney, who was represented by his father Mick McInerney, and James Power received their diplomas at a function in the RDS on Wednesday and the duo follow in the footsteps of the likes of Fionn Carr, Matthew D’Arcy, Ross McCarron, Kevin McLaughlin, Sean O’Brien, Jonathan Sexton, Devin Toner and Cillian Willis who each graduated last year.
Overseen by Leinster Rugby Academy manager Colin McEntee in conjunction with Caroline Keane (Academy administrator) and Daniel Tobin (Academy fitness coach), the programme encompasses a three year supplementary course in modules such as rugby technical, tactical, generic, fitness, lifestyle and psychological skills.
Leinster Branch President Des Lamont commented: “As President of the Leinster Branch, I am very impressed with the achievement of our HETAC Diploma graduates for 2009, Conor McInerney and James Power.
“To do so in a year of such success for Leinster and Irish rugby on the pitch will be a milestone that they will now carry on their CV through the remainder of their lives.
“The attainment of this qualification mirrors the rugby education that they have received in the Leinster Academy over the past three years and may in time become the key to long-term employment beyond the rugby pitch.
“I believe that it is very appropriate that at a time when economic conditions have created huge obstacles for our young people in getting jobs that every member of the Academy programme has an academic qualification.
“I have no doubt that in the years to come, Conor and James will have reason to be thankful to Academy director Colin McEntee and the HETAC director Dr Séamus Purséil, that they have acquired such a knowledge of the various components of rugby offered through this qualification.”