James Pater's Meteoric Rise in Rugby

Nineteen-year-old James Pater has experienced a rapid ascent into the Northampton first team, a journey he describes as 'seamless' and one he is 'over the moon' about. Nicknamed the 'Slim Reaper,' Pater is now the team's go-to full-back after an astonishingly quick rise through the ranks.

Pater's progression into professional rugby began with an opportunity at the start of the season, which he capitalized on by performing well. He recalled a significant moment from his youth when, at 15, his teammates at Shelford RFC pooled funds to purchase a training session with rugby legend Jonny Wilkinson at a charity auction. This early exposure to Wilkinson's guidance appears to have been influential in Pater's development.

The young player is also focused on physical development, actively working to gain muscle mass. He has made a notable impact, including scoring a hat-trick on the opening day of the season against Newcastle Red Bulls. He also touched down Northampton's fifth try in a high-scoring match against Bath earlier in the month.

His transition into the senior team was swift, following success in the Academy League. He made his Premiership debut against Gloucester while still attending school, an experience he described as 'pretty sick'.

Pater is also aware of the significance of upcoming matches, stating, “You’re brought up knowing that Leicester’s a big game. That’s never lost on you in the academy.” He celebrated a try with teammates Tommy Freeman and Fin Smith during a recent match.