CHINNOR RFC Thame are delighted to be able to announce the signing of Army-serving hooker Pete Austin.
The former London Irish Academy player becomes our second signing of the day and our fourth of the week, following Jonas Humbert, Nick Smith and Charley Robinson.
Austin further strengthens our front row for the 2020/21 National League 1 season and brings a wealth of experience to the Senior Squad.
Pete, who is a Bombardier in the 12th Regiment Royal Artillery, has played in the prestigious Army-Navy match, as well as for London Scottish, Birmingham Moseley, Worthing Raiders and Barnes.
He is now looking forward to pulling on a Chinnor jersey and becoming part of the new chapter at the Club, where he will also be a community coach and play a key role with team analysis.
Austin said: “It’s great to sign for Chinnor RFC Thame. When Richard Thorpe was announced as Director of Rugby, I wanted to be a part of the Club because I knew he would do good things. I know Thorpey and (Backs Coach) Delon Armitage from my time at London Irish, I was in the academy when they were in the first team, and I also know (Attack Coach) Craig Hampson from England Under 18s. I’ve played at Kingsey Road a few times for the Army and I’ve always liked the brand of rugby Chinnor play. I’ve heard a lot of good things about the Club and I’ve always had Chinnor in the back of my mind for about three seasons. I’ve now made the leap and it’s good to be here.”
Chinnor RFC Thame Director of Rugby, Richard Thorpe said: “Whilst few Academy players graduate through to play Premiership Rugby, I always felt that Pete Austin was one that had what it takes. Since our days at London Irish together he has pivoted into the Army, but I am now thrilled to reconnect with him alongside Delon at Chinnor. Pete is a natural leader, a combative player and accurate not only in his line-out throwing, but around the park as well. He adds a huge level of experience to our pack and I’m sure we will see this shine through once we are back on the playing field.”
