Elite level the goal for Lewis
AN Edge Hill Sports and Coaching Development student is dreaming of reaching the pinnacle of his sport, having already tasted success during his burgeoning career.
Lewis Fairhurst, a former pupil of St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic School in Ashton-in Makerfield who is being supported via a Sports Scholarship (Silver) grant, will be playing rugby league with League One North Wales Crusaders this year although harbours hopes of achieving much more in the game.
“With the support of friends and family, and my ability and experience of competing at the professional level, I feel I can be an accomplished Championship player, with my focus on competing in Super League or at a high standard in Australia.
“I am aiming, within the next year, to be playing at Championship level or considering a move abroad to further my ability.”
The 22 year old utility back from Bickershaw, Wigan, who also attended St John Rigby College in the town, was on the books of Salford Red Devils and had signed a pre-contract with the club before they disbanded their academy in 2016.
His breakthrough at senior level came with Championship side Dewsbury Rams the following year, with whom he became a hero for his Challenge Cup exploits despite what he cites as a “difficult but beneficial experience.”
He added: “I played in some great games such as Batley in the Challenge Cup – a game in which I scored the drop goal to win the match in extra-time, booking us a meeting with Super League Wakefield, who I played against.”
A spell at Keighley Cougars followed before joining the Crusaders, where he believes he has played some of his best rugby, helped by being able to commit more time to training.
Lewis credits the support received during his degree with helping him in his playing career, which also includes starring roles for the England Universities team whom he helped with the Four Nations tournament last year.
“The scholarship has been very beneficial towards my performance, especially the gym. The facilities allow me to complete any training I cannot fit in at North Wales Crusaders, due to university commitments.
“It has also helped my confidence level as the facilities help to improve my ability to perform at such a high level.”
Lewis was selected for a Sport Scholarship (silver) award in 2017 – being awarded £500 per academic year towards his studies, plus free benefits include annual gym membership on campus, personal training and sport science support tailored to her individual needs.