Former Carmel College student Jamie O’Keefe returned to the college this week to present his England Students Rugby League shirt to his former coach, Clive Griffiths.

Jamie, who left Carmel two years ago, is now studying Sport and Exercise Science at Loughborough University. He recently scored in England Students’ 40-0 victory over Wales in the Home Nations tournament.

During his time at Carmel, Jamie was a key member of the college’s rugby teams, helping the Carmel Rugby League Team secure National Finals victories two years in a row.

Coach Clive Griffiths said, “We are so proud of Jamie’s academic and rugby journey. He was one of our senior leaders, the spine of our team as hooker, and to go on to represent his country makes us very proud. The fact that he has taken the time to bring his shirt back to inspire the next generation of Carmel rugby talent is fantastic.”

Jamie added, “It’s great to come back and see Clive and the college. The support I received here, both in rugby and my courses, allowed me to get to where I wanted to be. The teachers and coaches were amazing in helping me secure a place at the university of my choice. I really enjoyed playing rugby at Carmel and winning two national titles.”