18 March 2008

England newcomer Paul Hodgson was back at school last week, just days before winning his first England cap against Ireland.

The former Glyn Technology School head boy, who still lives in Ewell, was the guest of honour at the region’s Duke of Edinburgh Award Evening last Thursday.

As well as presenting certificates to over 120 students from the Epsom and Ewell region, he also took part in a question and answer session with the pupils and their parents. 

And according to Glyn headmaster Jon Chaloner, the evening was a resounding success.  “It was fantastic to have Paul back at the school, especially during such an important week for him. 

“I know I speak for all 250 pupils, parents and dignitaries when I say that he gave us a fascinating insight into the England squad's preparations for the match against Ireland and that we are very proud that he is a former head boy of this school.”

The London Irish and England scrum half attended Glyn Tech in West Ewell from 1994 to 2000, becoming head boy in his final year.

Taking a brief break from the England training camp, Hodgson was quizzed about the squad’s preparations ahead of England’s final RBS 6 Nations against Ireland. 

“Everyone is keen to go out and prove that we can perform well and show what we can do against Ireland,” said Hodgson.

“We know we did not perform well last week and can do a lot better.  It’s very exciting to be part of the senior squad. 

Hodgson, who had been named in the England’s second string Saxons training squad for the Six Nations tournament, rounded off the evening with some valuable advice.  “I had been due to make my debut earlier in the season for the Saxons but I got injured the week before which was devastating.

“It is important to remember that life will always throw unexpected challenges at you. It is a test of your character in how you respond to these challenges. I kept working hard and my reward was a call up for the full England squad.”

Ends