Morgan’s pride after College pair sign deals
» OLLY Morgan has spoken of his immense pride of seeing two of his Cheltenham College students sign professional contracts with Gloucester Rugby.
Despite not being a part of the academy for long, Jack Clement and Charles Tchen have already penned professional deals with the Kingsholm-based outfit.
Morgan, a past player for Gloucester and former England international who is now director of rugby at Cheltenham College, has been delighted with the successful work of the school in projecting new talent.
He said: “I am immensely proud. Yet more pupils achieving professional contracts once again demonstrates the strength of our program and also the long-standing link with Gloucester Rugby.
“Although Jack and Charles have not been all the way through the pathway, it highlights their commitment and worth ethic.
The stories of Clement and Tchen follow in the footsteps of many others that have emerged through the academy scheme in recent years.
“It is fantastic to have these pupils join Tom Stanton, Cameron Terry, Will Goodrick-clarke and Ollie Thorley as current professionals,” said Morgan.
Thorley has been involved in recent England squads and Morgan believes he has set an example of the highest order for others to follow.
“I have no doubt that these boys will match his levels of effort and hopefully we will see the outcomes in their results on the pitch over the coming years,” he said.
Clement initially was a cricketer, but discovered an unwavering passion for rugby as he was a major part of the College side that went unbeaten in 2018 and was captain a year later.
His strong performances for school and club have also enabled Clement to represent England at Under-18 and Under-19 level.
Tchen has been in terrific form on the wing and the potential he has shown has led to him being offered a ‘short term’ professional contract.
Their outstanding progression through the College program will culminate with the pair potentially going head to head with players such as Danny Cipriani and Billy Twelvetrees in training.
Only joining the Academy last October, Tchen said: “It’s amazing to be in this position. I have really enjoyed developing my game at College and to have a contract to continue playing professionally is a dream.”
Clement, a former Under-17 academy trialist himself, further added, “I have had a fantastic time at College, representing my country and now signing a professional contract.
“Thank you to Olly Morgan and Nick Runciman for coaching and inspiring us over the past few years. Not only do they train and advise us on how to keep a balance between our work and sport but they are also committed to us developing as players and as people.”