A North East school's rugby captain is preparing to take the next step in his sporting career after collecting his A Level results and signing a professional contract.
Will Graham, 18, from Wylam, will join the Newcastle Red Bulls senior academy on a two-year rookie contract.
He captained Dame Allan’s 1st XV rugby team and led them to the final of the Continental Tyres Schools Vase at Twickenham in March.
Will said: "I'm excited for what's ahead.
"Stepping into a full-time professional environment is a huge step up, but it's something I've been working towards since I first started playing rugby at Dame Allan's Junior School."
He first picked up a rugby ball in Year 3 at Dame Allan's Junior School under the guidance of Peter Twentyman, Head of Junior Sport.
Will has credited Dame Allan’s staff, especially Head of Rugby Adam Hay, for helping him balance elite rugby with studying PE, business, and psychology.
He said: "The school has been brilliant at keeping me on track.
"Between academy sessions, fixtures and exams, life was pretty full-on, but my teachers always stepped in with 1-on-1 support and flexible catch-up sessions whenever I missed work for matches.
"I owe a huge thanks to Mr Hay in particular.
"He hasn't just guided my physical game over the last few years; he really helped me step up as a leader when I took on the captaincy."
Will's performances for Dame Allan’s and Percy Park RFC earned him a place in the Newcastle Red Bulls academy in Year 10, leading to his professional rookie contract earlier this year.
He now joins seven other senior academy inductees for pre-season with the Red Bulls.
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Will Scott, Principal at Dame Allan’s Schools, said: "Will has been an outstanding ambassador for Dame Allan’s, showing remarkable commitment and determination in balancing the demands of elite rugby with his Sixth Form studies.
"We’re incredibly proud of what he has achieved on the pitch and look forward to following his career in the years ahead."
Will'sschool rugby career also included a tour of South Africa.
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