By Lee Clow
15 October 2021 | Rugby
SCHOOL boy Connor Madden has been selected as part of the WRU Exiles squad.
The 15-year-old joins up with the Welsh Exiles in what is a programme that identifies, monitors, develops and recruits Welsh qualified players, from the ages of 12 to 18, who are based outside of Wales.
From a rugby loving family, Connor was destined to play the sport and at only the age of three, he began playing alongside his older brother.
Connor currently plays as an Inside Centre for his school’s team and his local side, East Grinstead RFC. Connor is also part of the Harlequins Academy in which he is involved in their Developing Player Programme (DPP).
The Sackville School student received the news of his selection in the Exiles squad earlier in September of this year. When asked about his call up, Connor replied: “I thought it was amazing. I hadn’t previously played for the Welsh Exiles or had any training so I couldn’t quite believe it.”
Connor was injured at the time of his call up but has since made a return to full fitness, and only last weekend participated in his first game for the Exiles. Connor helped his new side as they impressively ran out 10-22 victors over Llandovery College.
“My first game was against Llandovery College, who are one of the best teams in the country and have produced many Welsh international players, so it was incredible really”
“I am very impressed [with the Welsh Exiles], during the game there were scouts from three different academies, it was all filmed, the coaching was very good, and it was very well organised.” Added Connor.
Following on from his first game, Connor is looking to push on and keep progressing further under the guidance of the Welsh Exiles programme.
“The ideal goal would be to take it all the way with the Welsh Exiles. I want to be picked up by one of the regions and then go through the academy and see whether I can make it as a professional player.”
At only 15, Connor has a huge future ahead of him and without doubt will make a name for himself in his beloved sport.
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