Congratulations to Matt Houghton, Eccles RFC U16 Captain, who has been invited to join the Sale Sharks Academy development group (SDG) for training this summer.
Matt was selected for the U16 Developing Player Programme (DPP) at the beginning of last season, alongside seven of his Eccles teammates, going on to represent Lancashire in two fixtures against Cheshire, before selection to train as part of a transition group. Matt has been offered an assessment position in the SDG till the end of the summer which will include a rugby festival and residential trip.
Matt's back row team mate, U16 Jack Lightbown, was selected for the SDG last July and played games for Sale Sharks against academy teams including Worcester Warriors and Exeter Chiefs. Jack went on to Captain the Sharks in victories over Bath and Bristol and this April was informed he will move up to U18s at Sale Sharks Academy next season and will be registered as an England Academy Player (EAP).
We wish Matt and Jack the very best of luck with their development and, when possible, look forward to seeing them play for the Eccles U18 Senior Colts next season.
Both lads have shown great commitment and dedication to improving their Rugby and seizing their opportunities when they've come - although anyone who witnessed their performance in the clubhouse will agree their dancing needs a lot more work!
