Jones (right) scored the first try for Hampshire

Luke Jones became the first Guernsey player to play for the Hampshire Rugby Union under-16 squad on Sunday.

The 15-year-old scored Hampshire's first try as they trailed 12-0 to Sussex but overturned the deficit to go on to win 27-12.

Jones, who aims to turn professional, said: "I am just so excited.

"I'm really grateful to Steve Roussel and Robert Sinclair, who have been my coaches since I was little," Jones said.

Luke is a very talented player and he could go far Geraint Cooper

He added: "They volunteer at the Guernsey Rugby Academy and have really helped me so I owe a lot to them and also to the Guernsey Rugby Association as it was through them that I was given this opportunity."

He had previously been prevented from trying out by an icy pitch and the airport firefighters strike meaning his flight was cancelled.

"I was gutted, but it gave me the opportunity to train harder."

Rugby development officer Geraint Cooper said: "Luke is a very talented player and he could go far as long as he has the right coaching support and opportunities."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version