Monmouth schoolboy wins selection for England Under-18s

A teenage rugby ace at Haberdashers' Monmouth Schools has been named in the England Under-18s squad for an international match later this month.

Joe Jenkins, a student at Monmouth School for Boys, impressed the England coaches in a two-day training camp at the end of July.

Now Joe, who plays in the centre for the school 1st XV, will be part of England's squad for their fixture against Italy on Sunday 22nd August.

"Joe's selection for England is outstanding and is testament to his talent, hard work and commitment," said Mr Paul Morris, rugby coach at Monmouth School for Boys.

"England has a huge pool of high-quality rugby union players and to be recognised at this level is a fantastic achievement for Joe."

Mr Morris added: "As a school, we have had boys win senior international caps for both Wales and England, in addition to representatives at every age group for Wales.

"However, Joe is set to become our first England Under-18s international."

Seventeen-year-old, Joe, had previously trained with the England age-group squad in the spring and also linked up with the North squad at St George's Park in Staffordshire.

Joe and fellow Monmouth School for Boys 1st XV player, Theo Mayell, were both involved in the initial England development camp at Stafford Rugby Club earlier in the year.

Joe, who lives near Chepstow, is a member of Bristol Bears Under-18s and has represented both Newport and Bristol Schools.

He cut his rugby teeth at Hereford Rugby Club, progressing from under-9 to under-16 level at Wyeside.