Sports Performance student Darren Atkins to join Bath Rugby senior squad for 2018-19 season
Darren Atkins has followed fellow University of Bath student Josh Bayliss in signing a new contract with Bath Rugby that will see him step up into the Premiership club’s senior squad for the 2018-19 season.
The talented full-back, who has represented the University men’s 1st XV in BUCS Super Rugby, is one of a number of Bath Rugby Academy players who combine training and playing for the Blue, Black & White with studying Sports Performance.
Atkins, a finalist with England at the past two U20 World Championships, has made seven senior appearances for Bath Rugby and was one of four current students – alongside Bayliss, Will Britton and Miles Reid – to take part in last weekend’s 25-8 victory over Newcastle Falcons in the Anglo-Welsh Cup.
“I’m really excited to be moving from the Academy to the senior squad next season,” Atkins told Bath Rugby’s website.
“My time in the Academy has been a huge learning curve for me but it’s been really beneficial. I’ve had a taste of first team rugby and so now I’m looking forward to pushing on, continuing my development here and challenging for a regular place in the team.”
Click here for more information on how the University of Bath supports student-athletes combining their dual careers of study and sport.
