Luke Jones has become the first schoolboy forward to sign a pro contract in the Super 14s after agreeing to join Western Force.
Jones to combine studies with playing in the Super 14
Luke Jones has become the first schoolboy forward to sign a pro contract in the Super 14 after agreeing to join Western Force.
Lock or back row Jones attends St Pius X School and has captained the New South Wales Schools team.
Jones will join up with Force - and fellow teenage star James O'Connor - in December after touring England with the Australia Schoolboys team.
And Force believe Jones will develop quickly under head coach John Mitchell and captain Nathan Sharpe.
"Based on his recent performances, we view Luke as a player who will be a candidate for Super 14 selection in 2010," said Force general manager Mitch Hardy.
"Luke has strong skills, a big motor and is aggressive at the breakdown. As David Pocock has shown here, if you are good enough then you are old enough.
Excellent
"We have an excellent group of young lock/flankers who we expect to develop quickly under the tutelage of Nathan Sharpe and John Mitchell."
Jones insists that his studies remain his priority, although he is relishing the chance to be involved in a professional environment.
"I'm looking forward to being involved in the professional rugby environment, and the Force have given me the chance to do so," Jones said.
"Working with John Mitchell and Nathan Sharpe will be really beneficial for my game, and the forward pack at the club is outstanding; there are international players across the board.
"School is the priority for me at this stage, but I can't wait to arrive in Perth and get involved."
