Sam Lewis has become the latest Warriors player to benefit from the club’s educational programme by graduating from the University of Worcester with a degree in Sports Studies.
The openside flanker began his studies in Wales when he was playing for Ospreys but completed only the first year of a Sports Science degree before he joined Warriors.
With the encouragement of Lynette Cutting, Warriors Education Officer, Lewis was able to transfer to a new course in Worcester and he was rewarded for four years of combining studying with his Warriors commitments when he was presented with his degree at a recent graduation ceremony held in Worcester cathedral.
“It was a two-year degree but as I was doing it part-time it was spread over four years,” Lewis said.
“It was a bit stressful at times trying to get it done but hopefully it will benefit me in the future.
“It’s helped to take my mind off rugby. I know it’s a sports studies degree but it’ has given me something outside rugby and that has been beneficial.
“I studied on my days off but we also worked out which modules would work best for me with my training schedule. Some of the lectures were also in the evening which meant that I was able to attend.”
Lewis was guided through his degree by Gareth Jones, Principal Lecturer in Sports Coaching at the university and also be Cutting, a former FE College Principal, who encourages Warriors players to plan for life after rugby by gaining qualifications – educational or vocational.
“Gareth helped me a lot. He gave up a lot of time to mentor me through it. I can’t speak highly enough of him,” Lewis said.
“The ceremony was held in the cathedral which was very special. It was a fantastic day. My Mum was there, she pushed me through it, my girlfriend was there and so was Lynette.
“Lynette is absolutely brilliant. She helps everyone here, not just me, but I will forever be in her debt.
“She and Gareth kept pushing me. A lot of credit goes to them. We don’t know how lucky we have got it really.
“Lynette only wants the best for us which is so good. Any club would love to have her but we are the lucky ones. She is brilliant.”