ZUKO Robb, a sixth-former at Gordon’s School, West End, admits his life revolves around rugby.
And that dedication paid off when he was picked for the England under-18 squad for the International Series in South Africa this summer.
Robb said: “My life pretty much revolves around rugby.
“On a Friday when I go home, it’s sleep – and on weekends, it’s Quins games. There’s not much going out.
“Being picked for England is a dream come true.
“This season has been the best one. I feel the more you go up in years, the harder it gets, the more challenging, so you’re forced to develop.
“My aim is to go professional and get a contract at Harlequins at the end of this time at Gordon’s.”
Robb is studying A-levels in PE, sociology and media, as well as the diploma in sporting excellence as part of the Harlequins/Gordon’s Partnership Programme, which sees him play in the ACE League.
A spokesman for the school said: “Since the age of six, he has played the game at club level for Twickenham RFC.
“His former school, Grey Court, was a massive part of his rugby development, as was the Rosslyn Park club.
“He progressed to Harlequins and gained a place on the coveted Harlequins/Gordon’s Partnership Programme, as a diploma in sporting excellence player in the ACE League.
“His move to the Gordon’s sixth form in September last year has meant getting up at 5.30am at his home in south-west London so he can get to school for training and studying.
“In April, he was told by the England coaches his progress and development at Gordon’s and Harlequins had been noticed. He was offered the chance to take part in England development squad training at a four-day/three-night camp, with the possibility of selection for the squad.
“He joined fellow Gordon’s sixth-form student Enock Addai at Hartpury University RFC in Gloucestershire for the camp.
“While injury cut short Enock’s selection, Zuko has a confirmed place on the touring side and will carry the torch for them both.”
Chris Davies, head of rugby at Gordon’s, said: “Zuko was identified as a talented player and, more importantly, a good person, which gave him the opportunity to study at Gordon’s and, in addition, the diploma in sporting excellence.
“This has allowed Zuko to receive more one-to-one expert coaching and support.
“Zuko is an excellent role model for our younger years and we look forward to seeing him follow in the footsteps of recent ACE team graduates Tom Golder and Caleb Ashworth by representing his country.”