Leeds Rhinos rugby league prospect Iwan Stephens has switched codes to join Newcastle Falcons’ senior academy.
The 18-year-old England Academy international joins the Falcons on a two-year deal, and the goal-kicking winger is already in pre-season training with his new club.
SIGNING!
— Newcastle Falcons (@FalconsRugby) September 4, 2020
Leeds Rhinos rugby league prospect Iwan Stephens has switched codes to join Newcastle Falcons’ senior academy. The 18-year-old England Academy international joins on a two-year deal, the goal-kicking winger already in training with his new club. https://t.co/gio10kYxrC pic.twitter.com/czhIIXeHRd
Iwan has played both codes of rugby, and was part of Yorkshire Carnegie’s Developing Player Programme up until the age of 15 before committing to rugby league.
He has rugby union pedigree in his family, with dad Colin Stephens having played fly-half for Wales, Llanelli and Leeds Tykes.
Colin was capped four times by the Welsh national team in 1992, the same year he kicked two drop-goals in Llanelli’s famous victory over then world champions Australia, and is now director of rugby union at Leeds Beckett University.
Newcastle Falcons academy manager Mark Laycock said: “Iwan has got a very professional attitude and a good head on his shoulders, which, combined with his natural ability, makes him a really exciting signing for us.
“To begin with he will play on the wing while he re-acquaints himself with rugby union, but he has all the skills and capabilities to play full-back too in the longer term.
“He kicks goals, scores tries for fun and he’s a really evasive runner with outstanding athleticism. He’s prepared to give professional rugby union a really good crack, he fits our style of play and it’s a great project for both parties.”
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