After years of waiting, construction has finally commenced on the $20 million Panthers Rugby League Academy.
The world class centre of excellence, which will be located behind Penrith Panthers Leagues Club, is designed to provide a premium training and development environment for both senior and junior players.
The Panthers Rugby League Academy will boast expansive education facilities, team rooms, state-of-the-art AV rooms, a fully-equipped gym, medical facilities and recreational spaces.
Due to be completed by June 2016, the main academy building will be flanked by two full-size training fields and establish Penrith Panthers as an eminent force in the development of current and future rugby league players.
“The Academy will be among the best in the country and cements Panthers’ commitment to being one of the preeminent sporting organisations in Australia,” Panthers Group CEO, Warren Wilson said.
Panthers Executive General Manager of Rugby League, Phil Gould, said the facility will play a vital role in developing the next generation of rugby league stars.
“It’s the most significant investment this club has made in rugby league in its history,” he said.
“The facility will be a source of inspiration and aspiration for all young players, not only in the Penrith district, but in country areas as well.”
Attending the ceremonial ‘turning of the sod’ this morning was NSW Sports Minister and Penrith MP Stuart Ayres, Federal Member for Lindsay Fiona Scott, Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies, Panthers club director Greg Alexander as well as current players Bryce Cartwright and Reagan Campbell-Gillard.
“This is a fantastic initiative here in Penrith,” Mr Ayres said.
“This will become a mecca for people who want to participate in good community activity, enhance their footballing prowess and their capabilities of this fantastic community club.”
– Nathan Taylor
Weekender Newsroom
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