Trio of props become latest University of Bath students to join Bath Rugby Academy after impressing in BUCS Super Rugby
The partnership between the University of Bath and Bath Rugby continues to go from strength to strength as three talented front-row players have become the latest current students to formally join the Premiership champions’ Academy pathway.
Claudius Wheeler, who studies Biomedical Sciences, and Sports Performance students Alfie Griffin and Henry Mountford have all played a prominent role for the University’s BUCS Super Rugby side in recent seasons. Their form has earned them scholarship agreements with Bath Rugby and, having joined up with the squad in pre-season, the three props will follow a joint rugby programme alongside their studies once the season is underway.
The trio follow in the footsteps of wing/full-back Austin Emens, who made 11 appearances for Bath Rugby during their treble-winning 2024-25 campaign having also joined the club directly from the University of Bath.
“We’re delighted to welcome Alfie, Henry and Claudius,” said Johann van Graan, Head of Rugby at Bath Rugby. “The University is a key part of our pathway and our coaches believe that all three have the potential to develop in to fine rugby players. To be able to continue their rugby development alongside first-class education is a wonderful opportunity for them all.”
Aaron James, Head of Rugby at the University of Bath, added: “We’re immensely proud and look forward to supporting the players on the next step of their rugby journeys. We’ve seen a huge transformation in their rugby development from year one at the University. Their self-drive to get better has deservedly earned them formal involvement with Bath Rugby’s Academy and is testament to our partnership.”
Griffin, Mountford and Wheeler will remain eligible to play for the University men’s 1st XV in BUCS Super Rugby, with the 2025-26 season beginning on Wednesday 24th September with a trip to reigning champions Hartpury. The first home match at the Team Bath Sports Training Village is against Leeds Beckett on Wednesday 1st October – click here to see the full fixture list.
Visit teambath.com/rugby to find out more about combining study and rugby at the University of Bath.
