Exeter College apprentice selected for England U20s

Stand out Apprentice Joe Snow of Exeter Chiefs Rugby Club has been selected to play in the England under 20s squad.  19 year old Joe has been part of the prestigious Exeter Rugby Club Academy & Exeter College Apprentice scheme for the past 2 years.

The Apprenticeship scheme that Exeter College offers is an ideal arrangement for Joe who can still achieve his Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence whilst training, playing at the club and gaining invaluable experience.

Playing at the Exeter Chiefs has given Joe the opportunity to work day in day out with some of the very best players out there including Australian International Nic White, and regular Premiership Starter Will Chudley who are on hand daily to offer tips and advice. Joe will be the 3rd Academy scrum half in recent years to play for England under 20s following Jack Maunder & Stu Townsend.

We spoke to Joe about his success: “I’m so happy that I’ve been selected in the squad, it seems so surreal, but it’s everything I’ve worked for. Seeing some of my close friends achieve it just made me want a taste of it. I blame my older brother mainly, he’s what made me addicted to the sport.  I’ve worked hard throughout school and the Exeter College Apprenticeship scheme, which has broadened my horizons, but encouraged me to achieve my goals. I’m really grateful for the encouragement from coaches, they’ve helped me come a long way to achieve this goal. Also, thanks for the massive support from my family and friends, they've been amazing.”

Rob Gibson, Assistant Academy Manager at Exeter Rugby Club had these proud words: “Joe has what every coach looks for first – the perfect attitude. Joe has worked hard and developed his game, particularly in the all-important kick area. He is an extremely competitive being and thrives in the pressure environment of games. His game understanding is improving all the time and as a result has turned in very impressive performances this season.  The selection into the National U20 squad is fully deserved and great motivation for Joe who now has to do what comes naturally to him and work hard to secure that all important U20 World Cup spot.”

Joe will be joined in the squad by friend and fellow Exeter College student Marcus Street. Marcus, like Joe is playing week in week out while also gaining `A` League & Anglo Welsh appearances. This will be Marcus` second year in the U20 squad, appearing in every game but one (due to injury) in last year’s World Cup Squad in Georgia. Marcus is combining full time rugby while completing his studies at Exeter College.

Everyone wishes Joe every success in the squad and look forward to hearing more about his future achievements.

Image: Pinnacle Photo Agency.