Durham County RFU Player Jets off to South Africa
England U18’s have landed in Cape Town ahead of their fixtures this month against Argentina, France and South Africa.
📷Matthew Ward England Rugby
Amongst the group is Durham’s own Matthew Ward who has been selected for the squad after a series of selection events across the country.
Matthew has been with Durham City RFC for many years and has always shown a depth of talent beyond his years. Originally playing in the back row he has grown and developed into one of the countries finest and most talented wingers showing an attacking style with pace and vision accompanied by a strong determination in defence.
Matthew has come through the ERDPP (England Rugby Development Player Program) in Durham and represented the County at all age grades up to u18.
Matthew now balances his study and playing time between Gosforth Academy’s AASE scheme and as an EAP (England Academy Player) with Newcastle Falcons Academy whilst occasionally playing 1st XV for his boyhood club Durham City.
David Hill, Player Pathway Manager for Durham County said
“Matty is a great example of the Pathway in Durham identifying and supporting local talent to achieve their dreams."
"His hard work, determination and personal sacrifice to the sport he loves has got him to this point with a great infrastructure of coaches, from club, school, county and ultimately the Newcastle Falcons Academy who have all supported this journey."
All through Matty’s journey it’s been evident that he has a supporting and encouraging family behind him who keep him grounded and focussed on education and rugby.
We wish him all the best in South Africa
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