EXCLUSIVE: Haskell on teaching rugby's next generation

James Haskell may only be 23 years old, but the England and Wasps flanker is already putting something back into the game.

He has set up the Young Guns Academy which he expects will provide a more professional approach to coaching young players and he is launching the scheme at his old stomping ground - Maidenhead RFC.

Talking exclusively to the Advertiser, Haskell exuded the same passion for the academy as he does for pounding opponents on a Saturday afternoon, saying: "Whenever I do any coaching, I am always asked by young players what I am doing when I train and how they can do the same. Parents and kids are taking rugby more seriously now and, as the game becomes more popular, expect a higher level of coaching.

"What the Young Guns Academy will do is come at coaching from a different perspective. We'll use video analysis, a more targeted approach and include work on core fitness."

For those who can't afford the £195 fee for the four-day course, Haskell has brought sponsors on board to provide free places for some to make the scheme accessible to a wider section of society.

He said: "I was also keen to help those who are less privileged. I know how much it did for me growing up to be part of a well-run set-up at Maidenhead. It kept me out of trouble and I hope this will do the same for many others."

He added: "I'm also delighted to be able to run this clinic at Maidenhead. I spent a large part of my youth there. They have a great set-up and it's great to be involved with the club again."

Alongside setting up the academy, Haskell has been preparing for the new season and all the fitness training agony which that entails.

He said: "I've been back at Wasps for three days and am feeling fine although of course it's a bit of a shock. We head for Granada soon for a camp which will not be fun. It'll be painful and tough, but worth it.

"I've had a three-week break, during which time I went to the USA, which is the longest break I've had since turning professional. I'm feeling fit and looking forward to the new season."

Haskell certainly isn't sitting on his laurels after another trophy-winning season with Wasps and some rave personal reviews during a disappointing England tour to New Zealand.

He said: "With Wasps I want to win more trophies and progress as a player. England have produced some results which were just not acceptable, so I want to cement my place with the team and help it improve.

"There's a lot of pressure playing for Wasps and England, but I look at it as a challenge and wouldn't have it any other way."

- The Young Guns Rugby Academy will take place at Maidenhead RFC, Braywick Road for four days from Monday, August 4, 9am-4.30pm, for boys aged between 11-17 and girls aged 11-13.

The cost of the four-day course is £195 (or £45 for four days for those aged 7-10-years-old who will train between 4.30-6.15pm).

Go to www.ygacademy.com for information and to book places on the course.

- However, the Advertiser has a pair of FREE places to give away (with a combined value of £390).

Buy today's Advertiser for details.