A RISING star has caught the eye of England’s Under-18 side after impressing for his Oxford school.

Charlie Mason captains St Edward’s School, who have made a strong start to their Continental Tyres Under-18 Schools Vase campaign.

The Woodstock Road school have beaten local rivals Magdalen College School (MCS) and Witney’s Cokethorpe School en route to the third round.

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St Edward’s head of rugby Joe Winpenny said: “To follow on from success at Iffley Road against MCS in our local derby, we had another strong performance from the Teddies 1st XV in the second round of the Under-18 Schools Vase.

“For this, we hosted Oxfordshire rivals Cokethorpe, and our boys proved strong in defence as well as attack, with 29-3 the final scoreline.

“We look forward to our next round Vase match against Aylesbury Grammar School, and whilst we will take each game as it comes I believe that this year’s senior squad just might be able to achieve something special in this year’s national schools tournament.”

Winpenny reserved special praise for Mason, who has been a standout player for the side.

He said: “As captain, Charlie Mason has the skills and leadership qualities, on and off the pitch, to inspire top performances, not just from the 1st XV but also for rugby players across the school.

“He is a wonderful role model, and when not studying he can always be seen on the lower pitches at school honing his skills.

“Now in his third year playing for Teddies 1st XV, Charlie brings invaluable match experience as we push ahead with an unbeaten competitive playing season.

“As for the future, Charlie has attracted the attention of the England Under-18 selectors in the past and club talent scouts.

“Charlie has aspirations to play professionally, and we will do all we can along with his academy coaches to support that goal.

“He is undoubtedly a player to watch, who not only has the talent but also the work ethic that is required of a potential professional player.’’