A young year 11 student, Josh Leighton 16, had an opportunity to win a scholarship and play rugby for a selection of colleges in the USA.
Josh
, a promising young rugby star, was given the chance to play in America after he was recognised for his rugby talents. The young Burnside student currently plays for Newcastle Thunder Academy, a professional rugby league club. Josh, who has played against Super League, clubs applied for a trial at Walker Dome, the first step in his journey to America. Because of his performances so far, he was accepted and went for the trial. He then passed that trail with flying colours and was accepted to interview at St James Park, with just a handful of other young people. The age range was from 16- 20. As the youngest participant, Josh was really up against it and faced some tough opposition.
Josh, a Burnside student, described how he felt about this amazing opportunity;
‘ I’ve trained everyday, day and night; any day I don’t have training I go to the gym. I put 100% into everything and anything I do. I’ve dreamt of this since the start of my journey into being a rugby professional’
Many young sports stars have people they look up to, role models and inspirational figures. Josh is different, he got into rugby as a way to channel his energy.
‘To be honest I didn’t really have an inspiration or a specific role model. I chose to play rugby because of my temper and everybody I knew supported my decision.’ Josh tells how it just started as a great way to let off steam but then he discovered he had a real gift for it.
We then asked how long Josh has been playing rugby for. He chuckled and enthused;
‘I have been playing rugby since I was 9. I think so anyways. I played my first game and I thoroughly enjoyed it…I’ve been playing rugby ever since.’ When Josh talks about his beloved sport you can really see how he comes alive and how much he loves what he does.
When asked if there was anybody he would like to thank for helping him with his achievement , he grinned and exclaimed;
‘I would like to thank my mam and dad who took me to every training session and match. They were the ones who made me who I am and supported me through all my decisions. However, most importantly, they bought me all the equipment for my games.’
We finally asked Josh were he could see himself in the future if he decided to take this amazing American opportunity. At time of interview, he told us that he wasn’t quite yet decided. He felt that rugby in the UK was much more promising than rugby in America. He was advised that still being so young, he had plenty of time to decide. After much deliberation, he has decided to put on hold the process of applying for the scholarship as he wants to see how opportunities in this country develop first before he heads off over the pond. Josh contemplated his future and for such a young man he has a wise head on his shoulders and isn’t rushing into any decisions quickly.
‘Where could I see myself’¦.If I’m honest I couldn’t tell you. Hopefully playing for my country with a decent professional contract. I know that’s what I’m capable of. Whether that’s in the UK on in any other country, I just don’t know.’ But scouts recognised Josh at St James as he really stood out from the crowd and we’re confident that he has a promising opportunity, whatever he decides. Josh has plenty of time to see whether he wants to go ahead and restart his application for the States. In the meantime, he’s dedicated to just being the best that he can be. At only 16, we’re sure we’ll hear more of Josh- rugby star-Leighton.
Everyone from Burnside would like to wish Josh good luck for his future career. Who knows Josh could just be the next Sam Burgess.
By Joseph, Harvey, Frankie and Josh
