Want the best Coventry and Warwickshire news delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up here! Sign up here! Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

An Italian teenager who couldn’t speak a word of English when he arrived in Coventry three years ago has been scouted by Wasps - and is also training to be a doctor.

Sam Dapaah, aged 16, swapped Milan for Holbrooks and has even has managed to rack up five tries in seven games for his new local rugby team Old Coventrians.

Sam said: “I moved over here three years ago because my mum was struggling to find a job back in Italy.

“It’s been a difficult few years, but my mum and brother have helped me learn the new language.

“My PE teacher at President Kennedy, Mr Garlick, introduced me to rugby and I began playing at county level, and to keep my fitness up and maintain my competitiveness over the summer I took part in athletics, while also concentrating fully on my studies.”

It all started with Wasps when he first attended one of their residential camps last summer and was encouraged to take part in a trial.

He added: “At first I didn’t think I would make it, but I was really surprised when I had an email to say I had been given a place in the Under-18s team.

“Wasps have been really helpful in providing work experience for my CV and UCAS application.

“Ahead of every home game I help teach youngsters how to play rugby in the Fan Village, and I also help co-ordinate the guard of honour, making sure the kids are off before the game starts.”

Verity Brown, community development manager at Wasps, said: “Sam’s story is a truly inspirational one and just goes to show that if you put your mind to something as difficult has having to learn a new language and culture, you can do it.

“We’re really impressed with Sam’s attitude and work ethic, and we wouldn’t be surprised to see him sporting the Wasps jersey in the near future.”