Jack scoops top HITZ award

By Mark Stevens
1/12/16

Exeter Hitz student Jack Clarke was among the major award winners at this week's Hitz Awards Ceremony put on by Premiership Rugby in London.

Recognising the achievements of those involved in the HITZ programme run up and down the country by all 12 Premiership clubs, it was certainly a night to remember for those in attendance.

Jack was one of three members of the Exeter HITZ programme, alongside Ash Carter and Rebecca Slee, who were all shortlisted for prizes on the night.

Although Ash and Rebecca were commended for their efforts in the Best Rugby Performer and Hitz Young Achiever categories respectively, 18-year-old Jack picked up the Community Impact Award.

Among those in attendance on the night was Rugby World Cup winner Jason Robinson – a Land Rover ambassador and long-time supporter of HITZ. He was joined on stage by Northampton Saints’ Harry Mallinder and Saracens' full-back Andrew Fenby alongside GB Wheelchair rugby legend Steve Brown.

He said: “I was once in the same situation as many of the youngsters on the HITZ programme and rugby was the motivator for me to turn my life around for the better. The sport has given me so much, not just through playing but meeting the extended rugby family.

"That is one of the real successes of HITZ; it gives youngsters a support networK and recognises the importance of rewarding the youngsters who are making major changes to their lives.”

Exeter HITZ Officer Gareth Williams added: "As a club we were delighted to see the efforts of three of our students rewarded at the awards night, particularly Jack in winning his category.

"However, the work done by every person on our programme has to be applauded. The programme is helping to make a real difference to so many people and we continue to go from strength to strength.

"HITZ is a great example of how sport can help tackle some of the toughest social issues young people are facing today."

The HITZ programme supports the development of 3,000 targeted young people every year of which 500 will have the opportunity to achieve a positive progression into further education training and employment.