A Cougar star of the future is hoping a local college will help him pass his exams -- as well as he passes a rugby ball.

Chris Hartley has started at Oakbank sixth form college this term after the school was recommended by the Cougars because of its sports college status

The 17-year-old travels from his home in Halifax to Keighley every day, and divides his time between Cougar Park and Oakbank.Chris says: 'So far it has been brilliant, everyone has been easy to get on with and the teachers have been very helpful.

'The sports facilities here are very good and that obviously makes a big difference for someone like myself.'

The talented young player was signed up by the Cougars at the age of 14 and now spends 15 hours a week training with the club.He is currently in pre-season training and playing for the under-21 squad, which he hopes will lead to a first team call up.

His rugby career started six years ago and since then his rise through the ranks has been swift, culminating in a call up last year for the Great Britain under 16 squad which toured France during the summer.

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