Regional Academies of Sport Limited (RAS) is proud to announce the renewal of its major partnership with Santos, reaffirming the company’s commitment to supporting young athletes across regional New South Wales. The renewed agreement now includes the Northern Inland Academy of Sport, joining the Hunter and Central Coast Academies under this impactful collaboration.
The partnership will see the return of the Santos Scholarship Program in 2025, following its successful launch last year which supported nearly 30 athletes from the Hunter and Central Coast regions. Scholarships were awarded in the categories of Excellence and Financial Hardship, providing vital support to athletes striving to reach their potential.
RAS Chief Executive Officer Brett O’Farrell said the renewed partnership reflects a shared vision to empower regional athletes and strengthen community pathways.
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Santos and to now extend its benefits to the Northern Inland region,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“This support goes beyond financial assistance – it’s about creating equitable opportunities for young athletes to thrive, regardless of their background or postcode.”
Santos also remains a key supporter of the Indigenous Talent Identification Days, a flagship initiative of RAS that now spans all three regions. These events provide a platform for nearly 300 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to be talent-identified across a range of sports, with many progressing into fully funded academy scholarships.
Santos Executive Vice President Eastern Australia and Papua New Guinea, Brett Darley, said he was proud to support the region’s emerging talent as part of Santos’ commitment to creating a positive legacy in NSW.
“By providing financial assistance, we are hoping to remove some of the economic hurdles that many athletes face when they are juggling intensive training and competition schedules,” Mr Darley said.
“I am delighted our support will help aspiring sport stars in the Hunter reach their full potential. Santos has a 70-year history of working in partnership with community organisations to support initiatives that provide lasting benefits to local communities.
“Our support will help improve access to elite coaching and enhance Indigenous talent identification programs right across the region,” he said.
This partnership exemplifies the shared vision of RAS and Santos to strengthen regional sport, support athletes in their journeys, and foster the social and cultural fabric of their communities.
The renewed partnership will continue to provide athletes with access to high-quality coaching, development programs, and essential resources – ensuring that regional athletes have every chance to succeed on the national and international stage.
Applications for the 2025 Santos Scholarship Program are now open until Friday, 28th November. For more information about eligibility, categories, and how to apply, please click HERE.