Exciting future ahead for Scott Makepeace
Scott Makepeace has joined a select group of Royal Navy Rugby Union players, having been chosen as the 2018 recipient of the 'Proud Heritage, Exciting Future' trophy. Previous winners of the award include RNRU teammates scrum half, Gareth Rees; flanker, Jarrard Hayler; and lock, Edd Pascoe.
Scott first got involved in Navy Rugby as part of the 2016/17 U23 Inter Service winning team. His strong performance with the team led to his subsequent selection for the Senior XV training camp later in the season. He had to carefully balance the requirements of his Phase Two training as an air engineering technician with his commitment to the physical demands of the squad training. Such was his skill and dedication that Scott won his first Royal Navy cap playing against the RAF in 2017 and went on to play at Twickenham against the Army in the 100th match between the two Unions since their formation.
Now serving at Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, Scott's enthusiasm, determination and leadership skills marked him out as the natural team captain for the 2017/18 Under 23 Inter Service campaign. With a win over the RAF and a draw against the Army, the Royal Navy team proudly lifted the winners' trophy for the third successive year at Portsmouth back in November, a feat previously unmatched in the competition's history.
Throughout 2018, Scott's outstanding performances have singled him out from other players in the Senior XV camp. Senior XV Assistant Director of Rugby, Major Scott Ashley, said "Scott's skill levels, leadership, positive demeanour and heart stood out to the Training Support Group and make him a thoroughly deserving winner of the Proud Heritage Exciting Future award. We all hope he will go on to have a very long and successful career in the Royal Navy and continue to lead the way in the RNRU."
Congratulations and well done to Scott Makepeace from all the Royal Navy Rugby Union family.
Image credits Royal Navy Rugby Union/© Keith Woodland and John Walton