
In the world of rugby, the legacy of family dynasties is becoming an increasingly significant factor in shaping the future of the sport in England. As the under-20 England rugby team looks to dominate the international scene, several rising stars are not only following in their fathers’ footsteps but are also making their own names in the sport. From the under-20 World Cup final in Cape Town to the Six Nations, these young men are proving that England’s rugby future is in capable hands, bolstered by the wisdom and experience passed down through generations.
The Rise of Father-Son Dynasties in England Rugby

The 2024 England under-20 rugby team is a perfect example of how rugby’s family legacies are flourishing. In July, the team lined up to face France in the under-20 World Cup final in Cape Town. Among the players were Asher Opoku-Fordjour, Henry Pollock, and Afolabi Fasogbon—three individuals who have already begun making waves in English rugby.
The most striking aspect of this group, however, is not just their individual talents but the familial legacies they carry with them. These young athletes have fathers who have experienced top-level rugby and whose influence and mentorship are helping guide the next generation. For these young men, the transition from promising prospects to professional players is smoother with the support of fathers who understand the emotional and professional challenges of the sport.
As of early 2024, Opoku-Fordjour has earned his first senior cap, Pollock has been called up for the Six Nations, and Fasogbon would likely have joined him if not for an untimely injury. Their rapid ascent to the senior level reflects the strength of England’s youth rugby system, but it also speaks volumes about the enduring legacies they carry from their fathers, who have excelled at the highest levels of the game.
The Influence of Fathers on Young England Rugby Players

The influence of fathers who have played the game at the highest level cannot be understated. England’s rugby future is benefiting from the strong foundations laid by these families, where rugby runs in the blood. Friday, whose father Mike played for Wasps and Harlequins and captained England’s Sevens team, and Bracken, whose father Kyran won 51 caps for England, are just two examples of this tradition.
Their fathers’ knowledge and experiences have been invaluable as these young men begin their own careers. It’s not just about learning the technicalities of the game; it’s also about understanding the mental and emotional hurdles of being a top-level athlete. This dual legacy of skill and emotional intelligence helps to shape not only the players they are becoming but also the leaders they are set to be for England in the future.
More Than Just Genetics: Developing as People and Players

For Lucas Friday, 18, and Jack Bracken, 19, the most significant inheritance from their fathers isn’t just rugby skills. The emotional support and guidance in dealing with setbacks and the pressures of professional rugby have been just as vital. As they embark on their careers, they have the advantage of having someone who truly understands the emotional and psychological aspects of professional rugby, having already gone through the same journey.
Bracken, speaking about his father’s influence, emphasized how vital it has been to have someone who has walked the same path. “More than anything, it has been the off-pitch stuff that has been really beneficial,” he says. “Developing as a person, as well as a rugby player, and dealing with setbacks has been key. Having a parent who knows the ins and outs of all those processes makes the transition from amateur rugby to professional a lot easier.”
Friday echoes a similar sentiment. Although he carries his father’s name and reputation, he is eager to establish his own identity. “I always get called Mike Friday’s son, every time,” says Lucas with a smile. “I want to make a name for myself as well.” While he acknowledges his father’s achievements, Lucas is determined to step out from under his shadow and carve his own path in England rugby.
A Legacy of Excellence: England’s Rugby Family Names
England’s rugby future is not just dependent on these two rising stars. There are many more players following their fathers’ footsteps and making a mark on the Premiership and beyond. Some of these young men, like Ollie Sleightholme (son of former England wing Jon Sleightholme), Greg Fisilau (son of Tonga international Kenni), Josh Beaumont (son of former England captain Bill Beaumont), Reuben Logan (son of Scotland wing Kenny Logan), Sonny Tonga’uiha (son of Tonga prop Soane Tonga’uiha), and Tyler Offiah (son of league legend Martin Offiah), have all made their names in the Premiership.
In Bath alone, several prominent names continue to push the boundaries of English rugby. Cameron Redpath (son of former Scotland scrum-half Bryan), Max Ojomoh (son of former England flanker Steve), and Tom de Glanville (son of former England captain Phil) are all competing for places in Bath’s backline. These players are not only carrying on family traditions but also playing pivotal roles in shaping the future of England rugby.
Global Influence: Sons of Rugby Legends from Other Nations
It’s not just in England where rugby dynasties are flourishing. Internationally, the legacy of rugby’s greats is being carried forward by their sons. In France, Damian Penaud, son of former fly-half Alain Penaud, and Max Jorgensen, son of former Wallaby Peter Jorgensen, have followed in their fathers’ footsteps to represent their countries at the highest level. These players have benefited from the same mentorship and family support as their England counterparts, proving that rugby’s legacy is a global phenomenon.
For these young athletes, representing their countries is not just about carrying the weight of their fathers’ names—it’s about making a legacy of their own. They are a part of a new generation that is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in rugby, while also honoring the traditions laid out by the generations before them.
England Rugby’s Bright Future: Junior Success and the Six Nations
The achievements of England’s junior teams in 2024 speak volumes about the strength of their talent pipeline. Having won both the Six Nations and the World Cup at the under-20 level, England’s future looks incredibly bright. These young players, including Friday and Bracken, are now considered the wise heads in their age groups and are expected to play crucial roles in England’s upcoming Six Nations campaign.
Bracken, who made his debut for Saracens earlier in the season, and Friday, who appeared in the Premiership for the first time in December, are two of the emerging stars in the England rugby scene. Both players have already shown they can handle the pressure of senior rugby, and they are set to play pivotal roles in future England campaigns.
As the England under-20s prepare for their Six Nations opener against Ireland, these players have not only established themselves as rising stars but also as leaders within their team. Bracken sums up the camaraderie within the squad: “There are different faces from last time, but I am really enjoying the vibe and brotherhood we have got going. It has almost continued from last season and built again this season.”
Conclusion: A Legacy That Continues
The father-son dynasties that power England’s rugby future are an integral part of the nation’s sporting culture. From Lucas Friday and Jack Bracken to Damian Penaud and Max Jorgensen, these young athletes carry with them the invaluable wisdom of their fathers while forging their own paths to greatness. Their success is not just a reflection of their own talent but also a tribute to the generations that have come before them.
As England’s rugby future continues to unfold, these rising stars will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the team’s success on the world stage. The bond between these fathers and sons transcends the rugby field, offering a blueprint for the next generation of players who aspire to make their own mark in the world of rugby. England rugby’s legacy is in good hands, and the future looks incredibly bright.
