The latest ‘newcomer’ to sign up for 2023-24 is Sam Carleton who joins his elder brother Tom in the 1st XV squad. With rugby deep within the Carleton family DNA, Sam grew up in Standish and went to Standish High School. Following a similar path to Tom, he switched to Kirkham Grammar School’s 6th Form where his talent was there for everyone to see. As a junior he played for Wigan RUFC and picked up Lancashire Age Group representative honours along the way as well as joining the Sale Sharks Academy.
On leaving KGS he moved to Newcastle University to study business management & marketing starting in 2021-22. He played for the University’s 1st XV in his preferred positions in the back three.
His development was noted by Lancashire County’s coaches and he made his senior debut in the Sir Bill Beaumont County Championship in 2022 scoring an excellent try on his debut against Yorkshire.
He’s decided to take a year out from university studies in 2023-24 and this will be to Fylde’s considerable advantage. No doubt father John, former England, Lancashire & British Lion wing, will be a regular at the Woodlands supporting Sam as he has Tom in his seasons at the Club.
Sam Carleton said: “I’m really looking forward to joining and playing with the more experienced players and excited to see what we can do this season.”
[Photos above and below courtesy of Tripsy Neary]
