YOUNG rugby players hoping to make it through to the professional ranks in the future have received a boost after getting a visit from a 'role model' in the game.

St Helens centre Matty Fleming, 21, attended a presentation for students at Appleton’s Bridgewater High School – his former school.

He made the visit to celebrate 'sporting achievements' from pupils and kindly donated his 2016 rugby league shirt to the school.

The year 10 rugby team was among those in attendance for the presentation.

PE teacher Paul Mackay, who once taught Fleming, praised the player for taking time out of his schedule to attend.

He said: "He is a real role model for the students for getting out there and succeeding.

"We wish him the best of luck for the future."