Where it Started: Ben Earl
When Ben Earl ran out at Murrayfield for England in February he became the fourth player from Sevenoaks RFC to do so.
David Flatman was the first in 2000, then came Andy Titterrell four years later, and Tom May in 2009. All of them plied their early trade in Kent - and now Ben Earl has joined their exclusive club.
“I remember turning up at Sevenoaks for the first time and there was just hordes of kids there,” recalls Flatman, who joined the club aged 13.
“The changing rooms were packed, there was more than one coach for each team and the standard was high. I loved it; it was a warm environment and really welcoming. I just remember having a great time there."
Flatman’s first cap came against South Africa - the only loss of his eight Test career - and after seeing Earl feature in three of England’s Six Nations games earlier this year, he believes the 22-year-old’s hard work ethic will be the catalyst for many more.
“We’ve seen Ben burst onto the scene with confidence that was built into him by - among other things - Sevenoaks RFC. He’s confident from the word go to dominate seasoned pros, and not all youngsters are like that,” said Flatman.
“Of the lot of us from Sevenoaks: me Tom May and Titts, Ben is comfortably the best player. When he’s on it he’s box office, because he has a level of acceleration and power that a lot of professional defenders cannot deal with and that makes him good to watch.”
Calcutta Debut
Earl replaced Sam Underhill in the 66th minute of the Calcutta Cup clash with Scotland in February, when the scores were locked at 3-3, and he was part of the convoy that launched Ellis Genge over the Murrayfield whitewash for the match-winning try.
“It was absolutely fantastic to see Ben get his first England cap, his form has been outstanding, and those that have helped and guided him on his way must feel really proud of his achievements,” said ex-hooker Titterrell, who made five England appearances.
“Personally, I’m proud of Ben’s rise through Sevenoaks RFC. It’s an amazing club that supports every one of its players and members, and everyone involved at the club, past and present, will continue to support Ben through his club and international career.”
May's Memories
Tom May not only played for the same club as Earl, but for the same school too, and recalls an occasion when he returned to deliver a coaching session.
“I could see Ben was a leader in that group, and could tell he was going to be a good player even then,” remembers May, who won his two England caps against Argentina.
May credits Sevenoaks for allowing him to truly experience what club rugby is all about, and even went back to the Kent side after retiring from the professional ranks, to play in a handful of games.
“I have fond memories of Sevenoaks and I’m sure Ben does too,” he added. “Everyone involved at the club will be proud of his appearances in an England jersey, it would have meant a huge amount to them. Their goal isn’t to produce England players, but to have young people playing rugby, having fun and growing friendships that last.”
An example of that lasting friendship is evident between Earl and his first coach from Sevenoaks, Nick Thompson, who was at Murrayfield to witness his former player make the introduction to Test rugby.
“I know I was only a small part of Ben’s development but I am massively proud,” said Nick. “I’ve stayed in touch and followed what he’s done. We had a successful age group at Sevenoaks, and Ben was a part of that.
“His athletic ability and strength were evident from a young age. He was a raw rugby player, but he was incredibly competitive. What stood out was his desire and will to break a tackle and run with the ball, it was incredible even at that age - he was a natural sportsman.”
He added: “Ben is a massive inspiration to all those juniors coming in and knowing they can come from the paddocks at Sevenoaks and go all the way if they want.”
