Ed McGuire looks set to join the Bath & Wiltshire Romans RLFC in January after a successful run out with the South West Universities side in December. He will link up with his SW University manager Chris Chatten who continues to grow the Romans into their second season.
Born and bred in Yorkshire, Rugby League was all around him growing up; “Rugby League was a massive part of our family life and culture. My fondest moments as a child were travelling over to Wigan to watch the Giants play the Warriors – they are always great games and a really good night.”
“My dad, who taught me everything I know, first bought my brothers and I a tackle bag when I was 5 years old – so the love of the game came from him (along with my grandfather and uncle) and then carried on from there. I first started playing competitively for my local side Newsome Panthers, with my eldest brother’s team when I was around 6, and I’ve been playing ever since.”
Now studying at the University of Bath, Ed was impressed with the facilities at the University. He said: “I remember going to some universities’ open days and looking around the sports departments and not being that impressed, but when I came to Bath I was blown away. The sports training village is incredible.
“I also saw an advertisement before I came about the Rugby League squad and its successes and how Gavin Grant was playing for Scotland – this was a massive factor as well.”
Although Bath has a strong rugby union presence Ed would encourage keen Rugby League players to get involved with Rugby League whilst studying. “(University squads) are a massive stepping stone for students to showcase their abilities and skills on a stage where everyone can see,” he reflected. “I know of three Bath lads (Jamie Park, Gavin Grant and Morgan Evans) who played internationally from the setup.”
McGuire will report to pre-season with the Romans in January, exams permitting, as the Romans are keen to strengthen further after a very successful first season. Chris Chatten said: “It would be excellent to add someone of Ed’s ability to the Romans squad, while also helping to strengthen our relations with the University of Bath Broncos (Rugby League side). During my time managing the South West Universities squad I have found Ed to be a personable character who acts professionally both on and off the field.”
