Cornwall College Camborne Appoints Matt Shepherd and Josh Matavesi to Lead Rugby Academy

Cornwall College Camborne has announced two high profile appointments as it launches its new Rugby Academy, bringing well known Cornish rugby figures back into the heart of the county game.

Matt Shepherd has been appointed Head of Rugby, with Josh Matavesi joining as Head Coach. Between them, they bring more than a decade of county, professional and international experience.

Strong Cornish Roots at the Helm

Matt Shepherd progressed through the St Austell youth system before playing senior rugby for St Austell, Plymouth Albion and Redruth. He has also represented England Counties and played a key role in Cornwall’s County Championship success.

Matt said:
“This Academy gives young players a proper environment to train, learn and compete while staying rooted in Cornwall.

“We want to build confident, well-rounded players who understand the game and enjoy pushing themselves, on and off the pitch.”

Josh Matavesi’s career includes spells in the Premiership, Pro14 and Top 14 with sides including Exeter Chiefs, Bath, Ospreys and Newcastle Falcons. He has also represented Fiji at international level in both 15s and sevens.

Josh currently plays for Camborne Rugby Club, further strengthening the Academy’s links with the local game.

“I’m really pleased this is happening at a local college like Cornwall College,” said Josh.
“It’s the college near where I grew up in Pool and Pengegon, so giving young people in our area the chance to learn from myself and Matt Shepherd is exciting.

“With my experience of playing professionally and coaching at international level, I can give students a clear insight into what it takes to become a professional rugby player.”

📷Matt Shepherd, the new Head of Rugby at the new Rugby Academy at Cornwall College Camborne.

Open to Students Across the College

The Rugby Academy will be open to 16 to 18 year olds studying any course at the college and forms part of a wider focus on sport returning to Cornwall College Camborne.

“We’re thrilled to have Matt and Josh bringing rugby back to the heartlands and giving young people incredible opportunities to develop regardless of the course they are studying,” said Luke Bazeley, Deputy Principal at Cornwall College.

“This Academy is just the start of bringing sport back to Cornwall College Camborne though. We have launched two dedicated sports courses for school leavers and we are also looking at netball and other sports to complement our rugby offering. Anyone interested in sport when they leave school after GCSEs can now look at their local outstanding college for an amazing sporting experience.”

📷Josh Matavesi, the new Head Coach at the new Rugby Academy at Cornwall College Camborne.

Training, Fixtures and Pathways

The Academy will offer structured weekly training and competitive fixtures designed to enrich the college experience. It will also work closely with schools and local clubs to help identify and support emerging talent while strengthening links between schools, college rugby and the wider Cornish game.

More details are expected in the new year, with the college confirming that a new partnership will unlock improved facilities and additional progression routes.

The Academy forms part of Cornwall College Group’s wider commitment to supporting Cornish rugby and expanding opportunities for young players across the county.

The Cornwall College Camborne Rugby Academy is now open for expressions of interest from students aged 16 to 18.

More information is available on the Cornwall College Rugby Academy website.

📷Matt Shepherd & Josh Matavesi