The Academy was formed to nurture, develop and prepare, the next generation of rugby stars. With success stories like Stephen Ferris and Andrew Trimble named on the long list of former members, there can be no doubt that the system is working.
The group is carefully managed under the watchful eye of former Ireland and Ulster lock Gary Longwell, who reflected on a positive season last year by saying:
"The Academy has really gone from strength to strength and the support of Phoenix Gas will no doubt help us continue to build on the talent we already have within the ranks".
Simon Little, Phoenix Communications Manager, said:
"Phoenix is delighted to be playing its part in supporting this very talented group of players both now and into the future. The annual Phoenix friends and family day was again a great success and no doubt Gary was watching out carefully for a few potential stars".
Phoenix's support for the Academy is part of the company's long established award- winning LIFE programme, which stands for Leadership in the marketplace, Investing in our people, Fostering our community and Environmental responsibility.