We are very proud to share that Fast Printed Packaging is sponsoring Oliver, a local 13 year old (and son of one of our team!) who has just been offered a place with the Elite Rugby Academy U14 Midlands squad.
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What the academy place means
Elite Rugby Academy is a professional development programme and pathway, giving players access to elite environments, high level coaches and a clear route towards the top of the game.
Oli attended an assessment that was, by all accounts, relentlessly fast paced. Then came the wait. The email offering him a place in the Midlands section, based in Stourport, made it all worth it. From here he will train regularly with the academy and represent it at matches and tournaments across the UK.
From Rugby Tots to the Stafford Counter Rucking Beast
Oli grew up around rugby. His parents have always supported Leicester Tigers, so he has watched the game at every level, from the professional stage to a cold Sunday morning on a grass roots pitch. When he asked if he could play, the answer was Rugby Tots at the age of five.
It did not take long for the leader there to pull his parents aside. Even at that age it was obvious he was ready to use his skills in a proper team. Cannock being the local club, he joined the U6s tag team, and from his very first training session he was in his element.
He played for Cannock until he was 11. To keep improving, he moved to Stafford RFU, and he has not looked back since.
His coaches have been quick to recognise how well he reads the game. His teammates gave him a nickname that tells you everything about how he plays: the Stafford Counter Rucking Beast. Line him up alongside one of his best mates and the pair become the Bash Brothers, a partnership not much gets past.
The accolade that says the most, though, came at a presentation evening, where Oli was voted Players' Player by his teammates. In a squad of more than 30, that is a real mark of respect.
More than rugby
Rugby is only half the story. Oli has been a member of Burntwood and Cannock Taekwondo club since he was six, competing in championships up and down the UK in both patterns and sparring, including the World Championships in Glasgow, and medalling at most of them.
In April 2026 that work paid off when he achieved his black belt. He now helps as an instructor with the Tigers class, and by all accounts loves it.
Between the two sports, the qualities are the same ones we would happily see in anyone: courtesy and respect, integrity, perseverance, self control and discipline, indomitable spirit, passion and solidarity.
In Oli's own words
"I'm excited to be given the opportunity, because I know it will help me become a better player, learn more about myself and I hope to fulfil my dream of becoming a professional rugby player."
Why we are backing him
We are a Cannock based business, and the club where Oli first picked up a rugby ball is on our doorstep. Supporting local sport, and local young people who put the hours in, matters to us.
Everyone at Fast Printed Packaging will be following his progress this season, and we cannot wait to see where the academy takes him. Follow along with Oliver on his Instagram account here.
