Two Chorley schoolboys are excited after earning scholarships with Super League giants
Wigan and St Helens Rugby League teams.
Parklands High School pupils Ben Parry and David Dale have received news they are on the first rung of the ladder towards a career as professional rugby players.
Parry currently captains the Chorley Panthers U15 side, which achieved promotion las
t season, and hopes to succeed at St Helens when he starts in September.
Parry's step-father, Mick Owen, said: "The scholarship is a year by year process as they look at their performances and then they may offer him a contract.
"Ben has put a lot of effort into his sport as he plays football and basketball at school, but rugby is his main sport and he trains three times a week with the Panthers.
"He has also played for Lancashire twice in the past three years and we hope he can make the NW squad."
The 14-year-old has been playing on the wing for the U15 side.
Mr Owen paid tribute to the Panthers set-up for helping Parry develop his sport.
He said: "The coaches really encourage the young players to
enjoy the sport in a professional manner.
"They are disciplined with a good team spirit and family orientated environment."
Meanwhile, David Dale will live out every Wigan Warriors fan's dream of pursuing a career with the JJB giants.
The former Chorley Panthers player is now part of the Wigan St Patricks club and his displays have brought him to the attentions of the Warriors coaches.
Dad Chris Dale said: "It is great to see them get rewarded for all their effort they put in.
"He got the chance to visit Wigan and was amazed by it.
"He has supported the club for a long time so it is great for him to get the chance to be there."
