Local young player Alex Clayton is included in the Fylde 1st XV squad against Sedgley Park at the Woodlands today (Sat 19th Feb). His is an interesting sporting journey so we caught up with him and asked him ten questions.
1. Q: When did you play MJ rugby at the Woodlands?
I began playing in the Mini Juniors at the age of 6 or 7 but chose to leave when I turned 15 after being offered a scholarship for football.
2. Q: Presumably you played rugby (and football?) at AKS?
When I joined AKS in year 7, I played both Rugby and Football, amongst other sports. During my time there, I was given some great opportunities to play both at a high level. I played rugby for Lancashire at school boy level and represented the ISFA national football side for four years.
3. Q: What made you choose footie initially as a career, and at Fleetwood FC?
Throughout my whole life, it was always a question of “Rugby or Football?” and I simply didn’t know the answer. I couldn’t decide between the two. In the end, I decided to let one of them pick me first and after a couple of years in their academy, I was lucky enough to be offered a two year contract with Fleetwood Town FC. It was simply something I couldn’t refuse even though it meant stopping Rugby. Since I was young, I had dreamt of being a professional sportsman and it certainly is one of the proudest moments of my life so far.
4. Q: You eventually attended university. Where did you study and what subject(s)?
After being released by Fleetwood, I went to university in Birmingham and studied Jewellery and Silversmithing. My family business is Claytons Jewellers and growing up, I was always surrounded by Jewellery. During summer holidays, I would work in the shop to get money so I could go out with my friends and as I’ve got older, it has become more of a passion of mine. Studying in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter was a great experience and really allowed me to develop my knowledge of the craft.
5. Q: What led you to return to play senior rugby at your old club?
Once I had finished university, I was hoping to come back and play either rugby or football. Being away from Rugby for so long, I missed it a lot and because I knew some of the lads at the club, I decided to come down to preseason training this season and get back playing at Fylde.
6. Q: How has the experience been in the Hawks and training with the 1st XV?
Although, I was rusty to start with, I have really enjoyed training with both the 1sts and 2nds and playing in the Hawks. I can feel myself developing as a player and gaining confidence constantly. It really is a great group of lads, who have been very welcoming.
7. Q: What are your feelings about making the 1st XV and National League rugby?
I am over the moon to be making my debut for the 1st XV. I didn’t expect it to come so soon after returning to the game but I am ready for the experience. I hope to continue to progress and get some more appearances under my belt in the future.
8. Q: Who has been the biggest influence in your sporting career?
For me, I can easily say my dad has been the biggest influence on my sporting career by far. Without him, I certainly wouldn’t have achieved what I have done today. He was very committed taking me to training and games for both Rugby and Football. He’s my biggest fan but also my biggest critic. My dad was also part of the coaching staff for my team throughout the mini juniors and all the coaches were great mentors, not only to me but all of my team mates as well. The coaching staff at AKS have also been a major influence on my sporting career, presenting me with some great opportunities.
9. Q: Looking back (even at your tender years!) would you have changed anything in sporting or career terms?
When I look back at my sporting career I wouldn’t change anything. I’ve had some amazing opportunities and experiences that I certainly won’t forget. There is always going to be a question of “What if?” but for me, I am happy with the way everything is.
10. Q: What is your day job now?
Whilst studying at university, I started my own social media pages, @alexthejeweller, on Instagram and Facebook. Here I sell prestige watches and jewellery. Since leaving university, I have continued to stick with this and develop my skills and knowledge further whilst working at the family business, Claytons Jewellers.
Many thanks Alex, and very best wishes!
