Former Oaklands Wolves Rugby star shortlisted for award

Former Oaklands Wolves Rugby Academy graduate Joel Kpoku, who has embarked on a meteoric Rugby Union rise since breaking into the Saracens first team, has been further recognised recognised with a shortlist for this season’s Premiership Rugby Cup Breakthrough Player Award.

The award, which was launched in 2012, celebrates and recognised under-23 players who have stood out in the tournament.

The winner will be announced prior to the Premiership Rugby Cup Final, with the winner receiving a variety of exclusive prizes including £1,000 worth of kit to be supplied to a grassroots club of the winner’s choice.

19-year-old Joel has been in impeccable form for Saracens and was a decisive factor in their Round 4 ‘Derby Day’ victory over Harlequins in the Rugby Cup, with an impressive 100% tackle rate, topping his performance off with a try to match.

Oaklands is one of the few colleges in the country which is an RFU centre of excellence, and as such has a formal relationship with Premiership rugby club Saracens. This link provides students with a unique opportunity to get a taste of life as a professional player.

Working on a regular basis with coaching staff, players have a fantastic chance to train and play using up to date training and playing strategies used in the top level of the sport.