Coventry sign former Leicester Tigers prospect Owen

Coventry Rugby boss Alex Rae has added more young Midlands-based talent to his squad with the signing of former Leicester Tigers academy forward Chester Owen.

The 19-year-old back-rower brings power and footballing skills to a blue-and-white pack which has already been boosted by summer additions Rhys Anstey, Obinna Nkwocha, Jack Bartlett and Elliot Chilvers plus former England flanker Matt Kvesic and new USA international Paddy Ryan.

The Butts Park Arena faithful will get their first glimpse of some of these players on Saturday when Cov host National One newcomers Leicester Lions in a pre-season friendly kicking off at 3pm.

Owen, who is a product of Ashby-de-la-Zouch’s junior section, played most of his junior rugby as a centre before making the transition to the back row under the watchful eyes of Tigers’ junior academy coaches.

Ironically, the 6ft 3, 17-stone forward last season gained senior National League experience playing alongside some of Saturday’s opponents during Lions’ promotion campaign from National Two West.

Owen believes moving to the BPA will give him the right environment for the next stage of his career.

“I’m excited to be a part of this hard-working and determined group,” he said. I enjoy the way they play here, and how hard the players and coaches push one another both on and off the field. I’m looking forward to the future.”

Head Coach Rae is excited by what Owen brings to his squad and the back-rower’s scope for further development.

“It’s great to welcome Chester on board,” he said. “He’s a young man with loads of potential who has worked really hard in pre-season to earn this opportunity. We’re looking forward to helping him continue to develop and enjoy his rugby.”