Jake’s rugby journey began relatively late, picking up a ball & joining in the pre-season sessions ready for the under 13s season at Gosport & Fareham. It was immediately apparent that Jake was going to throw himself into the rugby experience at the club as he instantly became involved in everything on & off the pitch, quickly becoming a key part of why the squad has grown together so well. Jake’s athleticism & enthusiasm quickly saw him recognised even at this early stage in his rugby development as he secured a slot in the London Irish youth development programme. Despite his early opportunities & recognition, Jake always kept his feet firmly on the ground. He is always willing to learn & never takes his position in the team for granted. He always encourages team mates in all aspects of the rugby experience & his fierce loyalty to peers in all activities has been an integral aspect to the extraordinary level of team bonding achieved by his team.
In the under 14s season, Jake was recognised at county level & has been a regular county representative since. He has also progressed to the silver level of the London Irish academy system & was awarded the Gosport & Fareham Youth player of the season in 2014.

Jake has been awarded one of only 15 places available annually to applicants from Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Sussex and Thames valley has the opportunity to start in St. Paul’s college in September where he will study for A’Levels alongside his ongoing rugby development. The rugby side of his development will be managed by London Irish & he will be using the same facilities as the London Irish first team.

Jake’s training for the AASE programme starts on Monday 9th February so the next chapter begins today.

Jake recognises that he is very fortunate to have been given this opportunity & intends to grab it with both hands (which is always a good idea with a rugby ball). Jake is fully committed to the programme & wants to push his opportunity to the limits to take advantage of what comes next.

From a coaching perspective, although we have several highly talented players, none can match Jake’s ambition so he has a great chance to achieve the potential that the AASE programme is offering. From all the guys in the squad, we wish you all the very best.