From Professional Pathways to England Universities: Hayden’s Rugby League Journey
York St John physiotherapy student Hayden Todd has been selected for the England Universities Rugby League squad for 2026, marking an exciting milestone in his sporting journey.
After developing through the academy system at Hull Kingston Rovers, Hayden joined York St John in September to begin his Physiotherapy degree. Since arriving, he has quickly become part of a welcoming and close-knit rugby league community, continuing to develop his game while adapting to university life.
The England Universities Rugby League programme brings together some of the country’s top student players, offering them the opportunity to represent England alongside their studies. For Hayden, this selection is not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of the support he has received from teammates and the wider university community.
I spoke with Hayden about his journey into rugby league, his experiences at York St John so far, and what this opportunity means to him.
What does it mean to you to be selected for the England Universities squad?
Hayden:
“I’m really looking forward to representing the country, but I’m just as proud to represent the lads back here at York St John Rugby League. They’ve been really good to me since I joined in September and showed me the ropes of being part of the YSJ sports community. I’m also excited to link up with some of my old teammates from Hull KR who I haven’t played with for a few months.”
How did you feel when you found out you had been selected?
Hayden:
“I was pretty buzzing when I found out. Not many people from York St John have been picked for this programme, so it’s an honour to join that small selection of lads.”
Can you tell us about your rugby journey so far?
Hayden:
“I started playing rugby union at around seven for my local team in Beverley before transitioning to rugby league at about ten with Beverley Braves. One of my best mate’s dads, who was a former professional player, encouraged me to make the switch.
“I didn’t get much of a look in when the scholarship selections happened at 14 before Covid, but during the pandemic I worked really hard on my fitness and strength. That helped me stand out when rugby returned.
“After that I was scouted by Hull KR and began training with them at 15, making my scholarship debut shortly after. In my second year I was named captain and was offered an academy contract. My first year at academy level didn’t go to plan as I injured my knee in the third game and needed surgery on my meniscus, which kept me out for the rest of the season. During that time I focused on getting stronger and improving physically.
“In my second year I managed to play across both academy and reserve grade, and last season I played nearly every reserve grade game as the team finished fourth. Although I wasn’t offered another contract, I decided to come to university at York St John, where the lads have really welcomed me and supported the new players joining the team.”
Why did you choose to study at York St John University?
Hayden:
“I chose to study physiotherapy at York St John because the course has a smaller cohort, which means you get really good support when you need it. It’s also not too far from my home in Beverley, and York is a really nice city with plenty going on.“The first year has been challenging but really good. It’s an intense course with a lot of theory and practical learning, so I don’t have as much free time as most people, but it’s helping me develop the knowledge and skills needed for the profession. I’m currently on placement at Hull Royal Infirmary and really enjoying the learning process.”
What role has the rugby league community at York St John played in your experience?
Hayden:
“The rugby league society has played a massive role in my experience so far. The lads are a good, honest and respectful group of people, and they’ve created a really strong sense of unity within the team.
“At first I thought it might be difficult transitioning from a professional environment into university sport, but the team made it easy. They’ve supported me from the moment I arrived, and if it wasn’t for them I probably wouldn’t have even gone to the first England trial.
“I also enjoy sharing what I’ve learned through my rugby journey and helping the group develop. The lads are really open to listening and improving, and it’s rewarding seeing the team get better together.”
Balancing a demanding degree and high-level sport must be challenging. How do you manage it?
Hayden:
“It can be difficult at times, but it comes down to managing your time and being willing to make sacrifices. My education always comes first, but I use my own time to train and improve myself. Working hard to balance both has definitely paid off so far.”
What would you say to students considering getting involved in sport at York St John?
Hayden:
“I can’t speak for every sports society, but I can definitely speak for rugby league. The team has created a really supportive environment where everyone respects each other and the wider YSJ community.
“If you want to play sport at York St John, it’s a great place to do it. From what I’ve seen across other teams and societies, people are really welcoming and supportive.”
Looking Ahead
From playing junior rugby in Beverley to competing in the academy system with Hull Kingston Rovers, Hayden Todd’s journey into the England Universities Rugby League squad highlights the dedication and resilience required to succeed in sport.
Now studying physiotherapy at York St John while continuing to develop his rugby career, Hayden is embracing both academic and athletic challenges. His story reflects the strength of the university’s sporting community and the opportunities available for student-athletes to thrive both on and off the field.
Thinking about studying Physiotherapy? York St John’s Physiotherapy courses combine research-led teaching with practical learning, helping students develop the skills and knowledge needed for careers in healthcare and rehabilitation.
Find out more about studying Physiotherapy at York St John University.
Interested in getting involved in student life? Explore the wide range of societies at York St John, from sports teams to interest-based groups, and find out how you can meet new people, build skills and be part of a welcoming student community.
Find out more about societies at York St John University.
Read more about Hayden’s selection and his journey to the England Universities Rugby League squad.