Claremont pupil tackles Dallaglio

Claremont School pupil, and up and coming rugby player, Max Lai, took part in an exclusive national training session at Twickenham with former England Rugby Captain Dallaglio.

Max, who plays for Hastings & Bexhill RFC under 9s, earned the unique once in a lifetime opportunity as a result of receiving the 'This is Rugby' prize at Heathfield & Waldron Rugby Football Club Minis Tournament, sponsored by Sacla, in March.

Max, who joined over a hundred other children from around the UK, including Theo Bevacqua from Battle and Tony Clarke from Staple Cross, said the event was a day to remember and included a guided tour of the national stadium.

In addition he had the chance to follow in the steps of many a famous rugby player by changing into his kit in the England teams dressing room, experiencing a pre-match talk, lined up in the tunnel, and ran out onto the pitch lead by Dallaglio.

Rugby coaching was also on the agenda for the youngster and Max said the highlight of the special day was being put through some rugby tackle paces playing alongside Dallaglio.

Max said: "I tackled Dallaglio and he taught me how to look mean!"

Max's dad, Alex, accompanied him to Twickenham and said: "Max has experienced the rugby life he dreams of. We are so proud of him."

Asked what he thought of the day, Max said: "It was the best day of my life".

Max's mum Dao said the 'This is Rugby' prize which Max won consists of the 5 core, which are, Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment,, Discipline and Sportsmanship. Qualities, which she believes her son has, she said:

"Max is always focused when playing rugby and is not afraid of tackling, he has speed and balance. He has great respect for his coaches and other team members."

She added: "Lawrence Dallagliois a very approachable man and he seemed to be passionateabout the sport. Max called him the gentle giant of rugby! Max has learnt a lot fromthis experience and I'm sure he will treasure it all his life."

Max is also in Claremont school's sports team, and recently came 2nd in the 75 metres at the 44th AnnualSussex Prep Schools Athletics Meeting 2010.