Young Gun: Jack Willis – Wasps and England U20s flanker

An ankle surgery last summer was not in Jack Willis’ plans but a sensational second half to the season means he is about to represent England at the Junior World Cup, which kicks off on June 7.
The young flanker was forced to watch the first four months of the season from the sidelines but having returned just before Christmas, he quickly impressed playing for Wasps in the A-League.
He worked his way into the starting XV, even captaining the side, and was called up for the Six Nations where he made three appearances.
New head coach Martin Haag included him in the Junior World Cup squad and Willis now intends to end his season much better than it began.
“I started pre-season with Wasps in July but after a week my ankle started playing up,” Willis told The Rugby Paper. “I had an injection but it didn’t improve so we decided surgery was the only option.
“As a result I wasn’t named in the U20s squad for the season, but I managed to get back just before Christmas and it went from there really. I wasn’t expecting to get selected for the Six Nations, so it was a nice surprise and I tried to make the most of it. I’d never been involved with England age group teams, so that was very exciting.
“I’m a week too old to have a second year with the U20s so this is my one and only chance to play in the JWC and I intend to make the most of it in front of my friends and family.”
Having left Henley College only last summer, Willis had to get up to speed with the physicality of the senior game and ironically says his injury helped him.
His great season was recognised at the club’s annual awards dinner last month when he was named Academy Player of the Year and he is now looking forward to the future having signed a new long-term deal.
“My injury allowed me to work hard in the gym and put on weight because I was fairly light – I’m now up to 16st 12lbs (107kg), which I’m happy about.
“I could feel the change when I started running again, but I got used to it pretty quickly and I don’t think I’ll be looking to add more weight in the immediate future.
“Playing for Henley in National One has been great for me because I got exposed to senior rugby, which is what you need as a young forward.
“I can’t wait to see what will happen next season. I’ll be looking to build on this season, continue to work hard and learn from the senior players at the club, so I can push for further opportunities.”