European adventure for ex-rugby student

Chris Barlow

Chris Barlow is making his mark after switching codes from union, which he studied at Myerscough, to league. Chris plays for Gloucestershire All Golds in the Kingstone Press League One and their adventures in the Challenge Cup will see them travel to France to play Toulouse this weekend in the fourth round.

The 20-year-old graduated from Myerscough last year with a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Rugby Studies as part of the college’s AASE programme, going on to play with the All Golds while studying a degree in Sports Coaching. While at Myerscough Chris earned County and Regional honours and also played rugby union in National League 2.

Having had rugby league experience with Leigh Centurions’ Academy he was awarded a scholarship at the University of Gloucestershire. He signed with the All Golds for the 2016 season and scored on his full debut just a few days ago.

Chris’s path into rugby league saw him initially play rugby league for Leigh Centurions academy last season, a position which was arranged with the help of Myerscough College rugby tutor, Andy Grundy. Andy said: ‘’Chris is making a big impression in what is only his first full rugby league season. To travel to Toulouse to play in the Challenge Cup is a massive achievement.’’

Andy, who is a retired professional rugby league player himself, adds: ‘’I wish him all the best this weekend and for the season ahead. Chris has took the opportunity that was presented to him in Rugby League with both hands, cutting his teeth during a spell with Leigh Centurions academy last season. 

‘’However, the lure of an academic scholarship alongside playing professional rugby league was too much of a temptation for him and everyone at Myerscough College wish Chris all the best with his continued development in the game.

‘’It’s great to see a player making a successful transition in the other code of rugby, especially as we hope to deliver at Myerscough in the near future, with talks well advanced to create a formal partnership with a Super League side.’’