Published: 16th October 2018
This weekend saw two Huddersfield Giants Category 3 players Josh Wilcock & James Szuluk represent England Colleges against Catalans Dragons U19’s at Wigan St Patricks. England Colleges successfully won the game 50-12.
In order to be selected, both Josh and James were a part of 60 players that were whittled down to a 24 man strong squad through training sessions and mock matches for The England programme.
James Szuluk started the game in the second row and also went on to feature at loose forward and in the centres. Commenting on making his England Colleges debut, James said: “It was an honour to go out and represent my country. Before the game I was nervous, however, once the game kicked off I settled into the game. I wore the kit with pride and something I believe helped my performance within the game. I’m looking forward to continuing my journey with the England Colleges team and I hope to feature within the next game.”
Josh Wilcock came off the bench and played Hooker, however his game time was reduced due to receiving a concussion during the game. Josh commented on his England debut by saying, “I have enjoyed the whole England process and I am not going to let my limited game time on Saturday affect me as there is still another game coming up against Australia. I am going to work hard in the upcoming sessions to force my way into the team. Although limited, it was still a huge honour to wear and represent the England kit.”
Education Tutor and Cat 3 Head Coach Chris Cullimore commented on James and Josh’s success: “It is great to see our programme being represented within the England team. Both James and Josh have been stand-out performers within the games and fully deserve their place within the England programme. There are a few other players within the team that are knocking on the England door and hopefully, they can break into the side this year.”
The boys will be in England training again next Wednesday hoping to feature in the next game on the 25th November against the Australian School Boys in Newcastle.
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