Bishops Castle lessons vital - Tom Savage

The Shropshire student who has signed for Gloucester just five years after taking up rugby has acknowledged the debt he owes his first club.

Tom Savage was 16 when he first tried the sport at home club Bishop's Castle.

He later moved to Shrewsbury, and last season led Hartpury College to victory in the British Universities final.

The new professional said: "Bishops Castle taught me to train hard and play to my best, and to make sure I take every opportunity that comes my way."

Savage (22) told BBC Radio Shropshire he is still shocked at winning a two-year contract with Gloucester, but is determined to make the most of his opportunity.

"It's a bit of a shock but I'll go into pre-season training all guns blazing to try to get into the team," he said.

"I don't know how far I can go, but I'll take every season as it comes and try to better myself," the 6ft 5in lock forward continued.

"This is a big season though. Gloucester will have a lot of players hopefully going to the World Cup so that could help me out and give me a chance early doors, so I need to get the coaches to have faith in me, and for me to trust in my own ability."

The Hartpury College rugby academy has associations with neighbours Gloucester and the Premiership club uses the college training facilities.

Gloucester also watched as Savage captained Hartpury to promotion to the National League Two South West.

"Tom is not afraid to get stuck in, has a big physical presence, leads from the front and could have a big future if he maintains this upward curve," said Gloucester academy coach Mark Cornwell.

Savage believes he is in the right place.

Tom could have a big future if he maintains this upward curve

Gloucester academy coach Mark Cornwell

"Gloucester are a very big club, always in the top end of the Premiership," he said.

"And the town is a special place: no-one's interested in football and everyone in the town wears a rugby shirt. I've never been anywhere like it really."

But Savage said he will always be conscious of the debt he owes to Bishop's Castle.

"Every time I go out to play now, I feel I'm representing them too," he said.