Bishop Burton Rugby Academy student signs professional contact with Harlequins Rugby Club
22 May 2025 | College
Bishop Burton College ACE Rugby Academy is proud to announce that rising talent Sam Bland has officially signed a professional contract with Harlequins Rugby Club, marking a significant milestone in his rugby journey and a moment of celebration for the entire College.
Sam, a dynamic and hardworking student-athlete, has been a standout performer throughout his time in the ACE programme. His dedication on and off the field, combined with his leadership, skill set, and consistent high-level performances, made him a key figure within the academy and a natural fit for the next step in the professional game. These performances didn’t go unnoticed by Harlequins but piqued the interest of England Rugby U18 Head Coach, Jonathan Pendlebury. On the back of his Academy performances with Bishop Burton College and Yorkshire Rugby Academy, Sam was subsequently invited to join the England Rugby U18 squad for the Six Nations campaign in March.
“Sam has been a model example of what the ACE programme is all about,” said Mike Umaga, Director of Rugby at Bishop Burton College. “He’s committed, driven, and incredibly coachable. Watching him develop and now earn this opportunity with a prestigious Premiership club like Harlequins is something we’re all extremely proud of.” Sam is an incredibly deep thinker, a huge physical presence, shows tenacity around the breakdown, and calmness under pressure, Sam has consistently impressed both Bishop Burton coaches and the Yorkshire Rugby Academy. His signing with Harlequins is a testament not only to his individual ability, but also to the strength of the ACE pathway in preparing young athletes for professional environments. Sam follows in the footsteps of Tye Raymont and becomes the second player in two years to sign a professional contract with a Premiership club straight out of College.
The move to Harlequins represents the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Sam’s career, and everyone at Bishop Burton College wishes him the very best as he steps into the professional arena.
“We have no doubt Sam will continue to thrive and make a real impact,” added Evan Woodworth, Head of ACE Rugby. “He’s earned this opportunity, and we’re excited to see where it takes him.”
Bishop Burton College is a national centre of sporting excellence at both College and University levels where students are able to study and train like a full-time athlete. We have academies in Rugby Union, Football and Netball and perform on a National, Regional and Local competitions. Find more information here.
