ollie devoto

 

Tell us about your rugby background…

My dad Steve coached my U7s team at Sherborne RFC and I stayed there through all the age groups. Bath picked me up at 16 and I got a sixth-form scholarship to Bryanston.

Who are your mentors?

Dad coached me until I was 13 or 14, then there’s Mike Pyrgos at Bryanston and Danny Grewcock and Dave Williams at Bath Academy.

What is your position?

Full-back or fly-half. I was a ten through the age groups but moved to full-back and really enjoyed it. At Bath I was second-choice full-back last season behind Nick Abendanon and I played the last few games.

What do you like most about playing full-back?

I like the communication side and orchestrating the defence and counter-attack. You can’t do that at No 10.

You helped England win the Junior World Cup in June. When did you first play for your country?

I was part of the U19s development group but this year’s U20s Six Nations was my first cap. I’ve been lucky to play quite a few games at Bath but there’s something special about playing with guys from all around the country. It’s fantastic.

What are your aims for the next year?

To continue from where I left off last season. I know Bath have got talented young players coming in, but if I can still be involved that will be brilliant.

RW Verdict: At 6ft 4in and over 15st, this 19-year-old looks set for a big future with the West Country outfit.

This was published in the September 2013 edition of Rugby World. Click here to see what’s in the current edition.