History 3 of 3

3. History 3


The emphasis on youth has proved to be a great success. In conjunction with Saracens and with an educational arm at Robert Clack School in Dagenham, youngsters from the borough are encouraged to perform their skills and at the same time learn the importance of team-based values, discipline, healthy living and education. These possibilities have already been realised by Jackson Wray, Nicholas Fraser and Craig Ratford.
Barking, are proud of their successful youth set up which has over 300 players in 12 age groups and is constantly increasing. Many players, on a regular basis come through the Goresbrook Clubs youth set up and either become part of their National League Squad or play for one of the Clubs social sides, and many, we are proud to report, go on to play for premiership clubs around the world and in some cases gain international honours. The 2 most prominent players being Club President Jason Leonard-OBE (England and British & Irish Lion) and Kris Chesney (England Sevens & Toulon). Other players include Glyn Llewellyn (Wales) and John Rudd (London Irish and England Saxons). International Players of note who have also played for Barking are Jeff Probyn, John Buckton (England) Corrado Pilat (Italy), Sevanaia Rokobaro (Fiji) and Mathias Albina (Argentina).