COVENTRY Rugby have announced the signing of former Leicester Tigers academy forward Chester Owen.
The 19-year back-rower won promotion from the National League Two West division while on loan with Leicester Lions last season.
And Owen could make his Coventry debut against his former club when the two teams square off at Butts Park Arena in a pre-season friendly this weekend.
Owen said: “I’m excited to be a part of this hard-working and determined group.
“I enjoy the way they play here, and how hard the players and coaches push one another both on and off the field. I’m looking forward to the future.”
Head coach, Alex Rae, added: “It’s great to welcome Chester on board, he’s a young man with loads of potential who has worked really hard in pre-season to earn this opportunity.
“We’re looking forward to helping him continue to develop and enjoy his rugby.”
Owen is a product of Ashby-de-la-Zouch’s junior section and played most of his junior rugby as a centre before making the transition to the back row under the watchful eyes of Tigers’ junior academy coaches.
The 6ft 3in 17-stone forward is a welcome addition to Rae’s squad and joins fellow new recruits Rhys Anstey, Obinna Nkwocha, Jack Bartlett and Elliot Chilvers plus former England flanker Matt Kvesic and new USA international Paddy Ryan.
Coventry’s clash with Leicester takes place on Saturday, August 19 with kick-off at 3pm at Butts Park Arena.
