Six sign first Academy contracts

Saracens is pleased to announce six young talents have put pen to paper on their first contracts at the club with four of them having represented England Under-18s.

London-born hooker Theo Dan began his rugby journey at Blackheath aged five and later played for Old Alleynians before joining Sarries at 16. He made his England U18 debut against France in March 2019.

Prop Harvey Beaton attends Sutton Valence School and played for Maidstone RFC prior to his arrival at Saracens in 2016. He is a strong front row forward who played for England U18s last season on tour in South Africa.

Talented back row Ollie Stonham began playing rugby at Felsted School and joined the Academy aged 16. He was involved in the junior England hockey training set up before earning international rugby recognition earlier this year.

Centre Josh Hallett goes to New Hall School and toured South Africa with England last summer. The skillful teen was just 16 when he was selected to play in the Academy League for Saracens U18s.

Back rower Ethan Benson was named in the England Under-17s’ Development Squad back in 2017/18. He had a difficult year with injury but managed to feature for Saracens in this year’s Under-18 Academy League.

Mink Scharink is a prop who can also play back row. The young Dutchman attended Paul Roos Gymnasium to study for the last two years ahead of penning a deal with the Men in Black. He has just completed the season with Ernst Joubert at the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport. 

“The hard work starts now for this group of players,” Academy Manager Mike Hynard said.

“We believe this group possess some great characteristics and personalities. I know they will make this most of this opportunity by working hard and being competitive. We’re excited to see them develop as young men here at Saracens.”