Calypso Athlete Sam Quinn Sole Representative from Harbour in NZ Trial

Calypso Sponsored Athlete Sam Quinn is the sole representative from the North Harbour Rugby Union selected to participate in a two day training camp for the New Zealand U17 Team.

The camp takes place in late January and includes fitness and skill testing, plus position specific components. If selected Sam will attend two further camps during 2010 at the Sport and Rugby Institute in Palmerston North.

Still only in Year 11, Quinn featured prominently during the 2009 season for Westlake Boys High School's 1st XV team earning regular starts at flanker, lock and number eight. Although Quinn's preferred position is flanker, he has the versatility to play either of the positions well.

A great secondary school season was rewarded with selection into the North Harbour U16's representative team, now he is the only member from that squad to be selected into the weekend long camp that serves as a trial for the New Zealand U17 Team. The camps are run throughout the country at each Super Rugby franchise.

The news got even better for Quinn last week as he was the recipient of a fully funded scholarship to attend a week long camp at Murray Mexted's prestigious International Rugby Academy (IRANZ) in Palmerston North, which capped off a great year for the North Shore youngster.

In addition to his rugby training Quinn has been attending two athletic conditioning sessions a week at Calypso Sports & Fitness, which he says has helped him gain that extra edge and remain injury free.

"We focus a lot on technical development, and my speed and strength has improved hugely from this. This has allowed me to turn in better game day performances every time I play." Says Quinn.

Calypso Director and athletic conditioning coach Gareth Ashton says, "Continued physical preparation is crucial for Sam as his playing demands increase, but he's a well balanced kid who understands the importance of off-field conditioning and skill work so I expect his performance to keep improving"

ENDS

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