YOUNG rugby fan, William Watters, received the experience of a lifetime being a mascot for the England Rugby team during their match against Japan at Twickenham on Saturday 17th November.
Five months ago, William’s mother, Sharon Watters, emailed England Rugby asking to put William’s name down on the list to become a mascot.
William has a heart condition that caused him to undergo heart surgery at just four months old. With regular check ups and more surgery due, Sharon wanted to get William the chance to run out with his heroes.
In October, William received the invitation to visit the iconic Twickenham stadium for the autumn rugby series match, England vs Japan.
“It was a great experience!” William told Melksham News, “I am a big fan of rugby and play for Melksham under 9s. It was a great game, with England winning 35-15!”
Before the game, William and his mother were invited into the Pride of Rugby VIP area, for invited guests, and watched the players walk in. William, and three other mascots were given their own changing room and a full England kit that they were allowed to keep.
“We ran out of the massive tunnel! I ran with Danny Care, but stood in front of George Ford in the line up. Before running out, another mascot called William asked me if I was nervous, I just said ‘No! What’s the point?
“There were around 81,000 people in the stadium and even more watching at home because it was on television. Even the whole of Bath Rugby was watching! We were sat second row, behind the Japanese substitutes, so had great seats.”
It was William’s first ever England game and first visit to Twickenham, but he is a season ticket holder at Bath Rugby. His favourite player is Sam Underhill.
“He is a really good tackler, I like to watch him as I’m the best tackler in my team.”
After the game, William met the referee, players George Ford and Owen Farrell and coach Eddie Jones. He was even approached by Dylan Hartley, another player, who wanted to speak to William.
William also featured on captain George Ford’s twitter page, posting a photo of the line-up, celebrating his 50th cap for his country.
Above left: William in front of captain, George Ford.
Above right: William running out with Danny Care.
