Summer School 2011

Valhalla Diary update by Kathryn Sanger

THE WIDNES Vikings' summer school has drawn aspiring rugby players from as far as Yorkshire this year for a three day workshop.

The annual event, which is open to boys and girls aged six to 12, offers a chance for youngsters to train like the first team, tour the stadium and meet the players. However, this year one Widnes fan has travelled further than any others for the experience.

Carter Hosker, aged nine and from Home Firth in Yorkshire, has journeyed to Widnes for three days to take-part in the summer school. His name was inspired by the Widnes Vikings' own past player Steve Carter.

The young aspiring rugby star said: "I've had a really good day, my favourite part of the session has been tackling with Steve Tyrer and Simon Finnigan.

 "My favourite player is Danny Craven because I like watching the younger ones coming into first team and playing.

"In the future I'd like to play for the Vikings, then maybe move to Melbourne, but if Widnes are really good I'll just stay here."

Carter plays for the under 10's for Meltham All Blacks every Sunday morning, before travelling to Widnes to watch the matches.

 Tim Hosker, Carter's father, said: "In the past we've always been on holiday or other things have prevented us from coming to the summer school, but this year I've taken some time off work just so Carter could come.

"We managed to get to the stadium for the Super League announcement day and ended up next to the cameras, Carter went mad when the announcement was made. It was a great day.

"We come to every home match but it's really good that Carter can come to the summer school and be at the stadium where he comes to watch his favourite team."

Carter has also vowed to provide a good home for club owner Steve O'Connor's car next season if the Vikings alter their colours.