Scarlets back-rower Dan Davis has been able to balance the demands of professional rugby with a degree course thanks to an innovative new scheme with Swansea University.
The 21-year-old flanker came through the Scarlets Academy and signed his first full-time contract at the end of last season.
But as part of the university’s Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS) he has been able to continue his studies alongside playing senior rugby with the Scarlets.
Dan, who is close to a return from a long-term toe injury, is studying a sports science degree and took part in a video at Swansea Uni to highlight the scheme.
“The Scarlets put me in touch with the TASS programme and it has been a huge help to me,” he said.
“An example of how it works is when I was away with the Under-20s World Cup, the university allowed me to focus all my attention on the rugby for a month and then come back and continue with my studies and do my exams which I did well at it.
“There are challenges, but it is a privilege to be involved in this scheme and if I can have a successful rugby career and gain qualifications with the university, that would be ideal.”
Alun Davies, athlete support officer, at Swansea University said: “The scheme provides a range of services to the players and athletes, ranging from adaptability of their study, exam times, but also taking into consideration the demands of spot and it just gives them that benefit of maximising both without compromising either.”
Swansea is the first university in Wales to provide the scheme and as part of the link-up with the Scarlets, Swansea University are one of our kit sponsors.