Ipswich School Duo Sign Northampton Saints Academy Contracts

Ipswich School Duo Sign Northampton Saints Academy Contracts

Celebrated on the pitch at half-time during Saints vs Saracens

Ipswich School is celebrating a proud moment aft er two of its 1st XV rugby stars were awarded Northampton Saints Academy contracts for the 2025/26 season; a major step into the professional game and a potential pathway into Premiership rugby.

Edoardo “Edo” and Siep, both in Year 13, hail from Italy and the Netherlands respectively. Since arriving in the UK, they have fully embraced English culture and school life, rising rapidly through the rugby ranks and impressing at every level along the way.

Matt Searle, Director of Rugby at Ipswich School, praised the boys' commitment: “We’re incredibly proud of Edo and Siep. Their commitment to developing their game has been nothing short of exceptional. This isn’t just about natural talent; it’s about relentless hard work, the right attitude, and the countless hours they’ve dedicated, both with us, with Saints, and their National Teams. Their drive to get out on the grass and give their all every day has been truly infectious. They leave behind an inspiring legacy; one that every rugby-playing student at Ipswich School now dreams of following. This opportunity is a thoroughly deserved reward for all they’ve put in.”

Their achievement was marked in style, as both players and their families were invited onto the pitch at half-time during Northampton Saints’ win over Saracens, joining other newly signed academy players in a moment of celebration.

Northampton Saints have a strong tradition of nurturing young talent, and the club’s long-standing relationship with Ipswich School continues to thrive; with Edo and Siep now following in the footsteps of Henry Pollock, who also progressed through the Saints Academy system.

Edo’s mother reflected on the significance of the school’s support: “Through Ipswich School’s guidance, Edoardo has grown not only as an athlete but also as a person. The values of teamwork, discipline and perseverance will stay with him forever.”

Edo recently starred in the U20 Six Nations tournament for Italy, delivering a Man of the Match performance in the opening game, and going on to play in every fixture at the tournament. He now has his sights set on breaking into the Italy Senior Men’s Team!

Nick Gregory, Head of Ipswich School, added: “It’s a very proud day for the school. Edo and Siep were part of a leadership group in the 1st XV that turned around a challenging start to the season and led the team on a five-month unbeaten run; including victories against top schools like Bedford, Denstone, Oundle, Gresham’s, Norwich, Finborough and Whitgift . Their contribution to Ipswich School has far exceeded what they’ve gained. They’ve set the standard, and I hope others will be inspired to follow their lead.”

With a new Director of Sport joining this term, the future of Ipswich School sport, and rugby in particular, looks exceptionally bright.

For more information: https://www.northamptonsaints.co.uk/news/saints-an...-26