London Wasps hand over one-year contract to young centre Alex Cheesman – Rugby news
Adams Park based English Professional Rugby Union club, London Wasps, has given a one-year contract to the talented centre, Alex Cheesman. Officials confirmed the signing of Cheesman in a statement released on their website on Monday, July 11.
The player is a Wasps academy product and progressed his way up from Under-15, Under-18 and London Wasps A team levels.
The 22-year-old centre has expressed his delight with securing his first professional senior rugby union club contract with the Wasps because he started playing rugby with them. He said, “I’m thrilled to be returning to what I consider my rugby playing
home. I first went to the Wasps Academy session when I was 15.” Cheesman further added, “My goal has always been to play Premiership rugby and to be back at Wasps doing so is an honour.”
The London born Cheesman has recently completed his degree in Biodiversity, Conservation and Management. At Oxford, where he studied and played, he was under the guidance of the Wasps’ Brian Ashton.
London Wasps Academy Manager, Rob Smith, has expressed his satisfaction with Cheesman’s achievements. He praised Cheesman’s skills and ability particularly his speed and athleticism.
Smith added, “Alex is one of those who has gone away from our system and worked very hard, and it is of great and particular delight for all of the Academy staff when a player progresses through to the top level and in this case comes back home.”
Smith has expressed his desire that Cheesman work hard to improve his game and excel at the senior level. He termed Cheesman’s senior side contract “as a tip of the iceberg.” Smith further added, “Only a few places are available each year for those players
to go into the senior set-up, so many very talented young players need to follow other development routes.”
Cheesman is the 12th signing made by the Wasps to strengthen their squad for the 2011/12 Aviva Premiership season. Cheesman has the exposure of playing for the England Sevens’ side and has played a few games on trial for Sale Sharks last season.
The opportunity to play a complete season with a senior side will definitely help Cheesman to develop his skills and abilities.
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