As the rugby union playing season for this year is coming to an end it is a good opportunity to congratulate Clipston resident Sam Eveleigh for his determination and resolve to want to play rugby at the highest level he can achieve. Having been involved with the Tigers’ development player programme from the ages of 14-16, Sam was selected for Leicester Tigers’ U18s Academy this time last year and was given a year’s contract. After a summer and autumn of hard training Sam then played in all but one of the six matches in the National U18s Championship, with a draw against Northampton, and wins over Wasps, Sale, Newcastle and Yorkshire.  Tigers came out on top of the ‘North’ league playing winners of the ‘South league, Gloucester, in the final at Allianz Park in London.  They won convincingly and became the Premiership National U18s Champions.

Sam’s mum, Hannah, and dad, Dan, should also be congratulated on the enormous support they have given Sam over a long period of time. Their trips to venues around the country and many training sessions have been rewarded by Sam being offered another contract for next year in the Tigers Academy.