Saxons to decide on player award

As the rugby season enters its last lap, Stourbridge Saxons' followers are already discussing their club's prestigious Player of the Season award.

Last season's winner, popular captain Ben Hughes, is once again in the frame, along with impressive back-rowers James Rodley and Rupert Cooper.

Former Nottingham centre Charlie Hayter has also enjoyed a prominent campaign but, despite these successes, Stourton Park will host a stewards' enquiry should Hayter's midfield partner, Tom Jarvis, fail to lift the trophy.

Jarvis' powerful, balanced running has already produced five tries and consistently put his team over the gain line. His accomplished footballing skills and reliable defence have also caught the eye, as has his appetite for work.

His workrate and flair have also caught the eye of the international selectors as Jarvis has been named in the England Counties squad that travels to Dublin for Friday's match with their Irish counterparts.

The 25-year-old returned to Stourbridge in August after a spell with Championship club Plymouth and a season in Italy. Previously, he was mainly a full-back, but has thrived since taking the Saxons' number 13 shirt, a development which he credits to his time abroad.

Jarvis says: "I was happy playing at Plymouth and felt I improved as a player during my time there, but unfortunately their funding dried up towards the end of the 2008/9 season, so I had to look elsewhere.

"My agent got me a season in Florence, playing in Serie A, one level below Italy's premier club competition. The rugby was a similar standard to National One, and it was a brilliant experience.

"I converted from full-back to outside centre while I was there. The position really suits my game, as I try to stand people up, then go past them on the outside, and since most opponents this year have been bigger than me, I have had an edge in pace.

"The biggest adaptation has been a defensive one, shifting from side-on tackling to drift defence, but I have bonded really well with Charlie Hayter, and know I can trust him entirely to get across and cover.

"Coming back to Stourbridge was an easy decision, since I really enjoyed my previous spell with the club. As the pitches firm up, I think we will finish this season strongly, and I am looking forward to talking to Mitch about next year."

Jarvis' international call means he will miss Saturday's derby clash with Coventry at Stourton Park, with Worcester youngster Greg King likely to deputise at centre.