Michael’s a rugby star in both codes

RUGBY star Michael Ward in action

MICHAEL WARD, a rugby star in both codes, has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

The 17-year-old centre made his first-team debut for Oldham RUFC last season. And such is the versatility of the teenager from Royton that he also stars at rugby league for the juniors at St Anne’s.

Michael, who is studying for his A-Levels in the sixth form at Our Lady’s School, has also had his exploits recognised at a higher level.

He has played rugby union for Lancashire at every age level from under-14s and he is currently in their under-18s. Michael’s rugby league achievements are equally impressive as he was recently named as a reserve for the North-West Counties League under-18 representative team after helping the Oldham Service Area team to win the North-West Carnival at Hopwood Hall. And it is a measure of Michael’s fitness and stamina that he plays two games of rugby over a weekend.

Last season he would turn out for Oldham RUFCs first team on Saturday afternoon and then the next day play for St Anne’s under-17s.

In the current campaign, Michael has been playing for the Manor Park senior side on Saturday and usually the RU Colts on Sunday.

Michael says his ambition is to become a professional rugby player, though he doesn’t mind whether it is in the 13 or 15-man games.

“I have been lucky to have decent opportunities in both codes so I will have to see what develops,” said Michael who intends to study maths at university next year.

l To nominate someone for a Pride in Oldham award, fill in and return the nomination form (left).

To nominate someone for a Pride in Oldham award, tell us:

The name of the person or group nominated

A contact number for them, if known

Their job title and place of work, if relevant

Your reason for the nomination

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Send your info by email to editorial@oldham-chronicle.co.uk, marked “Pride in Oldham Awards, 2008

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Oldham Council

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