6th Sepember 2008

Richard Rhodes makes the England under 18’s squad

Richard has been selected for the England U18's squad for this season.
He attended a week long summer camp at Loughborough, along with another 54 young hopefuls, from which a squad of 26 was then to be picked - only 15 places were available as 11 of last years England U18's are still available - and Richard has been fortunate to be one of those chosen.
England U18's will now take on various regional Academies prior to Christmas, starting with a game at Bath's Recreation Ground on Sunday 21st September.
Richard, and his father Steven who is bursting with pride, would like to thank everyone at Ilkley Rugby Club for their continued support and interest in his rugby achievements. From the Under 7's days, in the dim and distant past, when Tim Ross and Pete Bagshaw looked after the lads, through to the coaching of Tom Gillon, Charlie Cooper and, more latterly Dave Duxbury, Steven and Richard wish to expend their thanks to them all.
Richard is also hoping to still turn out for the senior sides at Ilkley whenever he is available.

Article from the Ilkley Gazette reads:

RISING young rugby star Richard Rhodes from Burley-in-Wharfedale has been invited to join the England U-18s Development squad for a week's training at Loughborough University.

A member of the Leeds Carnegie Academy Richard played a few games for Ilkley's Second XV last season and also captained the undefeated Yorkshire U-17s last season in their matches against Lancashire, Cheshire, North Wales and Eastern Counties.

He follows his father Steve and brother Andrew as a player with the Ilkley club.

Ilkley Chairman Richard Scargill mentioned young Richard's achievements at the Ilkley club's annual meeting.

He said: "On behalf of the club I would very much like to congratulate Richard Rhodes on his rugby achievements and his progress demonstrates what can be achieved by our club providing the correct infrastructure at the Mini/Junior level.

"The good news is that Richard will be available for senior team selection at Ilkley Rugby Club next season."