Obonna scores for his country
RGS pupil a class act on his national debut
AN East Boldon youngster has made a dream start to his fledgling England rugby career, writes SAM BLACKLOCK.
Chidera Obonna, 16, who studies at Newcastle Royal Grammar School, scored on his debut for England Under-16s as they defeated Wales 41-22 at Bridgewater and Albion RFC.
Obonna is involved with the Newcastle Falcons’ Rugby Academy in addition to playing for his school.
He said: “It was an amazing but humbling opportunity for someone my age.
“Scoring a try and receiving my first cap for my country was absolutely fantastic.”
Obonna began playing tag rugby aged six at Northern Rugby Club in Gosforth after being urged to go into the game by his two older brothers.
He added: “My mum thought if she was taking two children to rugby on Sunday morning she might as well take me along.
“I tried it, loved it and have never looked back.
“Attending RGS has also helped me reinforce my interest in rugby union.”
Obonna has enjoyed a range of successes throughout his career, including being part of the Northern County Cup-winning team from under-seven to under-15.
He has also represented England North in the Under-13s Lambs independent school rugby competition.
The youngster has also contested a range of national and regional competitions for RGS, having played for his school team and the Falcons’ under-18 side since the age of 15.
Jim Pollock, first XI rugby coach at the Royal Grammar School, said: “The school is incredibly proud of Chidera’s selection and success.
“He follows in the footsteps of many boys from the school who have achieved international honours in rugby, some of whom have chosen to go on and show off their talents in the professional arena.
“Chidera’s achievements are well deserved.
“He has pace and power, good handling skills and the ability to make something happen when in possession.
“He is a good team player and I feel the most pleasing progression has been a more committed and determined approach to training and playing and a willingness to accept feedback and act upon it.
“An intelligent and grounded young man, he has all of the attributes necessary to succeed in this sport.
“This will all be down to his own decision-making and I know the school and the Falcons will support him every step of the way.”
James Ponton, Academy coach at the Falcons, said: “Chidera has progressed well within the Academy.
“He came to us as a stand-out player with his strength and pace.
“We are still unsure of his best position but whether at 13 or 14 he is a real threat in attack.
“He has off-the-mark speed and great power too.
“It is difficult to predict the future but Chidera has physical attributes as good as any player I have seen.
“In my experience it is not just about those attributes, it is about how hard are you willing to work with those gifts.
“If Chidera continues on his present curve, then playing for England Under-18s is achievable for him.
“There are strong players in England ahead of him, so he must continue to work hard on developing himself.”