PROMISING tight-head prop Jake Armstrong has left Wharfedale to join Greene King IPA Championship full-timers Doncaster – but says it has been a great experience to have played for the Greens.
He revealed: "I would like to thank everyone at Wharfedale RUFC – it has been an honour. All the support and assistance in my development over the last two seasons has been greatly appreciated."
Armstrong arrives at Castle Park having played a crucial role in the Dalesmen's 2014-15 National League One campaign and, at just 21, already has an impressive amount of experience under his belt.
A former captain of Woodhouse Grove School, he joined Doncaster's Championship rivals Yorkshire Carnegie's academy in 2011 before studying at Leeds Beckett University.
Armstrong, who was the United Kingdom's No 1 under-17 discus thrower in 2010 with an effort of 53 metres, gained representative honours with England at under-17, 18 and 19 level and made his Championship bow in 2013, coming off the bench against Ealing Trailfinders.
The youngster marked his first start for the Headingley outfit with a try against Bristol soon after, before joining Wharfedale last summer.
However, having left athletics behind, Armstrong has made no secret of his ambitions to play full-time rugby union and he is excited to be joining the Knights.
He said after speaking to Clive Griffiths (Doncaster director of rugby): "I knew that Doncaster was an excellent fit. The club have big ambitions and I'm excited to be a part of it.
"I am very eager for the start of pre-season and I look forward to meeting all the players, staff and fans alike."
Armstrong provides another option in a competitive-looking Knights front row and forwards coach Glen Kenworthy believes he has the potential to flourish at Castle Park.
"He's didn't miss a game for Wharfedale all season and played really well in what we know is a very difficult division," said Kenworthy.
"He can play on either side of the scrum, which is a massive bonus, and is one of the most promising props to come out of National One.
"Jake's a Yorkshire lad and going full time is a big opportunity for him – but he looks to have the attributes to do really well in a Knights jersey."
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