BRIDGWATER & Taunton College student Jackson Hurley has recently been selected to represent the South West Divisional Under 18s Rugby team.

They are set to play two fixtures in February with these games being the trials for the England Counties Under 18s side.

The first of the games was this past weekend with the South West drawing 31-31 against the North.

Jackson was initially selected for Somerset Under 18s, alongside four other college students; George Francis, Jacob Parker, Will Clapham and Reuben Lloyd.

Jackson has attended various training camps with the South West squad and was named as vice-captain for their first game against the North, played at Warwick University.

Bridgwater Mercury: Jackson in his England kit.Jackson in his England kit. (Image: Team BTC)

Jackson has captained the Team BTC Rugby side in his second year at the college whilst studying on our Level 3 Sporting Excellence and Performance course.

As part of the course, he has received some form of rugby training everyday whilst balancing this with his academic work.

Jackson said: "The rugby programme at BTC has helped and enabled me to reach my full potential through the high quality and experienced coaching as well as the vast playing opportunities it has allowed me with Bristol Bears, Somerset RFU and finally England South West U18s.

"Studying on the Level 3 Sporting Performance and Excellence course has given me an insight into a professional performers perspective and lifestyle and adapted it toward my game.”

To find out more about the College please call 01278 441234 or visit www.btc.ac.uk.

The former Bristol Bears Academy member and current Bridgwater & Albion RFC colt has been a standout performer for Team BTC Rugby on the pitch, leading by example and being an excellent leader for the team.

Brett Harvey, rugby development manager said: "We are really pleased for Jackson and delighted that he has been recognised for his rugby abilities. Historically, Somerset Rugby tends to be one of the lesser represented counties within the South West squads, so for Jackson to have made the squad is a huge testament to his performances on field and the work he has put in away from the pitch.

"As a playing and coaching group, Team BTC Rugby are hugely proud that Jackson will be representing us in the two games and feel privileged to have had him as part of the College team.”

If you are interested in following in Jackson's footsteps representing BTC or studying on our Sporting Excellence & Performance course please contact our Rugby Development Manager, Brett Harvey on the following email address, harveyb@btc.ac.uk.