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Chris Selected for East Midlands Rugby Squad

A Year 8 student who took up rugby after being inspired by the Rugby World Cup has been chosen to represent the East Midlands.

Chris Lampard started off playing rugby in his back garden after watching the international tournament on television. He lived in Grantham at the time so he joined his local club and then when he moved to Kettering, he started playing for Kettering Rugby Club.

Last year, the club put Chris forward for the East Midlands squad but he was too young. When the opportunity arose again to attend trials in December, Chris was eager to have another go.

He went along to the Northampton Saints ground for the trials, which he said was a nerve-wracking experience. He said: "We had to do some passing and tackling before playing a match. My hands were shaking but it was exciting at the same time. I love playing rugby and I'd play it all the time if I could."

Chris was told within two days that he'd made it on to the under 13s squad. He said: "My mum sent me a text message to say I'd got in and I had to read it twice. I was surprised because there were a lot of good people there."

Chris, who is a flanker, a number 8 and an inside centre, now faces eight weeks' training at Moulton College for a chance to play for the first team.

He said: "I just want to demonstrate my ability and that I could actually play against some of the biggest stars in rugby. I want to improve in every area of my game and make the most of this opportunity. My favourite club is the Leicester Tigers so that's my goal."