Gloucester’s director of rugby was left stunned last Monday when the Wales wing, who came through the club’s academy, said he wanted to be released from his contract to take part in an NFL programme for international players.
“I knew Zam had long had a desire to play in the NFL,” said Skivington. “There were rumours last summer and I had a conversation with him about it. He said if he had an opportunity he would like to go, but did I think it would happen? No.
“The decision to release him was taken by the board and they did not stand in the way of some-one who had a rare opportunity. We would always welcome him back, but his mindset is that he will not be returning because he intends to rip into American football.
“I do not think his decision is a reflection on rugby. It is just one person’s dream and opportunity and has nothing to do with finances. It very rarely happens that someone leaves the sport for another and it was emotional when he told the players he was leaving.
Denne historien er fra January 21, 2024-utgaven av The Rugby Paper.
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Denne historien er fra January 21, 2024-utgaven av The Rugby Paper.
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Unbeaten Lymm put the Tykes on a leash
LYMM maintained their unbeaten start to the campaign, taking the major scalp of Leeds Tykes and ending the visitors' unblemished start.
Dramatic late win boosts leaders
A LAST-minute converted try saw Tonbridge Juddians snatch victory from the jaws of defeat at Barnes.
England need to be more consistent
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Cuthbert: Wales have to deliver
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Anyanwu heads the list of star attractions
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Goldthorp can challenge Kildunne for No.15 spot
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Four-try David calls the shots for Bears
MILLIE David helped Bristol blow Leicester away after scoring four of their 10 tries at Welford Road.
Scott-Young keen to follow his father
TYPICAL of most Australians, Scott-Young Angus has fairly sunny disposition and the loose forward is confident that Saints can soon start to turn things around on the road.
When value for money is not part of the deal
ENGLAND'S bench strategy against New Zealand - goodbye \"bomb squad\", hello \"squib squad\"-has been investigated, psychoanalysed, convicted on all charges and mercilessly sentenced by the entire rugby world and its maiden aunt, so there is no earthly point in returning to the scene of the crime.
'I want to prove my worth to Bath'
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