Ivybridge’s George de Mendonca (left) and Plymouth College fly-half Ben Stean (right) who are training with Plymouth Albion this summer
GEORGE de Mendonca would love to following in the footsteps of his former Ivybridge team-mate Cameron Setter and win a contract with Plymouth Albion.
The 20-year-old winger is one of a host of youngsters spending this summer training with Albion in the hope of impressing director of rugby Graham Dawe.
De Mendonca believes he has got nothing to lose but everything to gain by spending a couple of months at Brickfields.
“I have always chased the dream,” said de Mendonca.
“And this is just a really good experience and the chance to play some high level rugby.”
He added: “I played with Cam (Setter) at colts and under-19s a bit. I have seen Cam do it and I just think I should give it a go.
“He has shown it is doable and I would like to test myself to see if I can do it as well.
“I will always try and strive to play at the highest level possible and this is a great opportunity to try and pursue that.”
He added: “Ivybridge have been really supportive. They were like ‘go for it, you are good enough to try it’. So I’m having a go and seeing what happens.
“I have been here the last couple of weeks. Training has been hard, but it’s been enjoyable. I’m feeling fitter and stronger.
“If nothing happens and I go back to Ivybridge, then at least I will be fitter, stronger and have better skills.
“But if I do get offered something, then it would great.
“Whatever happens I’m just enjoying it.”
Plymouth College fly-half Ben Stean is another youngster who has started training with Albion.
The 18-year-old said: “It’s a good opportunity. I just thought I’ve got nothing to lose. Whatever happens I get fit and ready for the new season.”
Stean, who was in the Cornwall under-18 squad last season, added: “This is a chance to train with boys who are a bit bigger, a bit stronger and fitter. It is a good challenge and a good laugh. It’s tough but a good laugh at the same time.
“I might be going to university in Cardiff or Bristol, but I will train down here for the summer and see what happens.
“But whatever happens, hopefully, I will be a better player.
“It’s a good experience and something you can’t really miss.”
Albion boss Dawe has been happy to welcome ambitious young West Country players to the club this summer as he searches for new talent.