Northumberland rugby star balances A Levels with Newcastle Red Bulls contract
A Northumberland student has collected his A Level results before embarking on a professional rugby career with Newcastle Red Bulls.
Dame Allan’s 1st XV captain Will Graham, who studied PE, Business and Psychology, will join the club’s senior academy on a two-year rookie contract.
The 18-year-old hooker, from Wylam, also played for Percy Park RFC.
“I’m excited for what’s ahead,” said Will. “Stepping into a full-time professional environment is a huge step up, but it’s something I’ve been working towards since I first started playing rugby at Dame Allan’s Junior School.”
Will credits the support of Dame Allan’s staff, particularly Head of Rugby Adam Hay, with helping him balance the demands of elite rugby with his A Level studies.
He said: “The school has been brilliant at keeping me on track. Between academy sessions, fixtures and exams, life was pretty full-on, but my teachers always stepped in with 1-on-1 support and flexible catch-up sessions whenever I missed work for matches.
“I owe a huge thanks to Mr Hay in particular. He hasn’t just guided my physical game over the last few years; he really helped me step up as a leader when I took on the captaincy.”
Will now joins seven other senior academy inductees at Newcastle Red Bulls for pre-season preparation.
Will Scott, principal at Dame Allan’s Schools, said: “Will has been an outstanding ambassador for Dame Allan’s, showing remarkable commitment and determination in balancing the demands of elite rugby with his Sixth Form studies.
"We’re incredibly proud of what he has achieved on the pitch and look forward to following his career in the years ahead.”