Loughborough University is pleased to announce that Loughborough Students Rugby captain James Freeman has signed a professional contract with Championship side Jersey.

Freeman has captained Loughborough Students in National One for the past two seasons and will graduate this summer with a degree in Sports Science and Management. Now 24, Freeman played for England under 18s before signing for Worcester prior to his three year stint with Loughborough.

The back row forward has already played against his new club in a pre-season friendly back in 2012 as well as making appearances for the Barbarians whilst a Loughborough Student. Of the announcement, he commented:

"The last three years at Loughborough has been key in developing my game. Having the opportunity to play week in week out in National 1 has been great and has given me the chance to really grow as a player. The programme here at Loughborough has been fantastic; by training pretty much every day in a professional manner it has prepared me for my next step in my rugby career. However, the professionalism of the programme at Loughborough has not only allowed me to develop as a rugby player but also personally and academically, which has become vital for a life after rugby.  

“I am hugely excited about moving to Jersey. They are an exciting and ambitious club looking to move their way up the championship and I am looking forward to being a part of their campaign next year.

“It has been an honour to captain the team for the previous two seasons, and I just want to say thanks to all of the staff and players that have helped me during my time at Loughborough. Finally, I would just like to say good luck to all of the leavers who are moving on and I also wish the best of luck to all the players and coaches in the club for next season.”

Head Coach Dave Morris was pleased to see his captain’s hard work rewarded with a move to the Championship side. Freeman received a commendation award for excelling in both academics and sport, which is what Morris believes the Loughborough programme is all about.

“I speak on behalf of everyone here at Loughborough when I say I’m delighted for him. James exemplifies our mantra of being the best you can be, which is what Loughborough Sport is all about. This is reflected in his professionalism, strong processes and preparation, and a high level of technical and tactical detail in his game. He has a bravery that others follow on the field and has been be a great ambassador off the field. We wish him all the best with this next step in his career.”