ROCHDALE Hornets received a double dose of good news on the playing front last week, as they launched their unique new Academy, and fullback Paul Owen was named as the 'Rugby League World' Player of the Month for March.

St Helens and Great Britain star Paul Sculthorpe joined Hornets coach Martin Hall and their former player Matt Calland in launching the innovative Academy at Hopwood Hall College, which will give 20 talented youngsters the chance to combine Rugby League with an academic course.

Over 50 players attended on Wednesday, and Hornets have already reported a big response for the course, which starts in September and sees students split their time equally between League training and studying either a BTEC First Diploma in Sport, or a BTEC National Certificate in Sport.

The players will form the basis of Hornets' new Under-18s Academy side from the 2004 season, and effectively provide the club with 40 full-time young players, once the second year of the course begins.

"This is a unique course in this country for Rugby League, and presents young players with a great opportunity to combine their studies with coaching from professional players and coaches," Hall said.

The Hornets boss also praised first team fullback Owen, who raced over for eleven tries in his first nine games this season. "He's arguably the best number one outside Super League," Hall added.

• Hopwood Hall College also runs football and boxing academies, and students wishing to apply for the Rugby League course can ring for an application form on 0161 643 7560, email enquires@hppwood.ac.uk or visit their website at www.hopwood.ac.uk.