George Thomas Ford, the renowned English professional rugby union player, is part of a remarkable sporting family, and his siblings, Joe and Jacob Ford, have also left their mark in the world of rugby. As we celebrate George Ford’s achievements on the field, let’s take a closer look at his talented brothers.
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George Ford’s Rugby Journey:
George Ford, born on 16th March 1993, has had a stellar rugby career. Playing as a fly-half, he has represented Premiership Rugby club Sale Sharks and the England national team. His professional journey began in 2009 with Leicester, and he later played for Bath between 2013 and 2017. George returned to Leicester before making a significant move to Sale Sharks in 2021 for the 2022–23 Premiership season. He made his England debut in 2014 and was a pivotal figure in the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups.
Early Life and Sporting Background:
The Ford siblings hail from Oldham, Greater Manchester, and their father is the legendary Rugby League figure, Mike Ford. From a young age, they were immersed in the world of sports, particularly rugby.
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George, the youngest of the three, initially played rugby league at Saddleworth Rangers and Waterhead from the age of five. He also honed his skills in the academies of prestigious rugby league clubs, including Wigan Warriors and Bradford Bulls. However, his destiny took an intriguing turn when he began playing rugby union at Rishworth School at the age of 11. He later joined Leeds Carnegie before making his mark at Leicester.
George’s Early Achievements:
George Ford’s exceptional talent was evident from a young age. At just 15, he represented England Under 18s, impressing coaches and fans alike. Bobby Walsh, one of the youth coaches at the time, even drew comparisons between George and another rising star, Cian Harrington, who had made a similar switch from league to union.
In 2009, George was nominated for the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year, a testament to his promise and dedication. His remarkable journey continued as he became the first Englishman to win the World Rugby Junior Player of the Year title in October 2011, making him the youngest-ever recipient of this prestigious award.
The Ford Rugby Dynasty:
While George Ford’s achievements have captured the spotlight, his brothers, Joe and Jacob Ford, have also made significant contributions to the world of rugby. Joe Ford, like George, has played for various clubs, including Leicester Tigers, Sale Sharks, and Yorkshire Carnegie. Jacob Ford, on the other hand, has made his presence felt at Doncaster Knights.
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