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# Two Ipswich School rugby stars sign Northampton Saints contracts
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/two-ipswich-school-rugby-stars-sign-northampton-saints-contracts/
- Published: 2025-05-22T13:45:32.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:11:51.000Z
- Description: Two international Year 13 students from Ipswich School – Edo from Italy and Siep from the Netherlands – have secured Northampton Saints Academy contracts for the 2025/26 season.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Grassroots Sport, Secondary Education, Further Education, #article, Ipswich School, #Import 2026-03-16 14:45

**Why it matters:** Academy contracts with Premiership clubs are highly competitive, with only a select few players earning these professional development opportunities each year.

![Edo and Siep in front of the main Ipswich School building](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1747921228-edo-and-siep-ipswich-school-1-1.jpg)

Edo and Siep in front of the main Ipswich School building (Ipswich School)

**The big picture:** Both players have "fully embraced English culture and school life" since arriving in the UK, rising rapidly through the rugby ranks and impressing at every level.

- Edo recently starred in the U20 Six Nations tournament for Italy, delivering a Man of the Match performance in the opening game and playing in every fixture.
- The pair were part of a leadership group that led the school's 1st XV on a five-month unbeaten run, including victories against top schools like Bedford, Denstone, Oundle, Gresham's, Norwich, Finborough and Whitgift.

Their achievement continues Ipswich School's strong relationship with Northampton Saints, who have a strong tradition of nurturing young talent. They follow in the footsteps of Henry Pollock, who also progressed through the Saints Academy system.

**What they're saying:** Matt Searle, Director of Rugby at Ipswich School, praised their dedication: "We're incredibly proud of Edo and Siep. Their commitment to developing their game has been nothing short of exceptional. This isn't just about natural talent; it's about relentless hard work, the right attitude, and the countless hours they've dedicated, both with us, with Saints, and their National Teams."

![Former Ipswich School students Edo and Siep](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1747921233-edo-and-siep-ipswich-school-2.jpg)

Former Ipswich School students Edo and Siep Photo: Tom Soper (Tom Soper Photography)

Both players and their families were invited onto the pitch at half-time during Northampton Saints' win over Saracens, joining other newly signed academy players in a moment of celebration.

Edo’s mother reflected on the significance of the school’s support: “Through Ipswich School’s guidance, Edoardo has grown not only as an athlete but also as a person. The values of teamwork, discipline and perseverance will stay with him forever.”

**What's next:** Edo now has his sights set on breaking into the Italy Senior Men's Team, whilst both players prepare for their professional rugby careers with Saints.

**The bottom line:** Nick Gregory, Head of Ipswich School, called it "a very proud day for the school," and praised both students: "Their contribution to Ipswich School has far exceeded what they've gained. They've set the standard, and I hope others will be inspired to follow their lead."

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