International recognition for Warrington stars (From Warrington Guardian)

International recognition for Warrington stars

TWO of Warrington's rising talents on the rugby league scene are celebrating their selection for England.

Cardinal Newman High School pupils Joe Mellor and Jack Reid, who are both on Warrington Wolves' scholarship programme, are in the under 15s squad to play against Wales under 16s on April 14.

The 15-year-olds came through a tough test of their abilities to gain the nod from selectors, and the head of physical education at Cardinal Newman is delighted with their work.

Steve Rogers said: "Joe and Jack tend to dominate games when they play together. You can tell they have been well-coached for a long time.

"They both play the game in an aggressive style but are quite different. Jack is skilful but very abrasive, while Joe is skilful with very good vision."

Both boys like to play stand off but Joe, of Latchford Albion Unicorns, has also appeared at full back while Jack, of Rylands Sharks, can also slot in at loose forward.

They have progressed along the sport's performance pathway, impressing at representative level with Warrington Service Area.

Joe and Jack graduated to regional camp, the regional team and played for the north west team in the regional carnival before being accepted on to the national training squad of 24 players, which has now been reduced to 18.

Their school PE teacher concluded: "They are good role models for the rest of the boys in the school teams."