SCRUM-HALF Jake Spivey has joined National League One side Blackheath.

The 19-year-old shone for Westcliff last season and is thrilled to be making the step up.

“Of course I’m over the moon to be able to say I’m now a Blackheath player,” said the Rayleigh based youngster.

“Being offered this opportunity to play at this level at just 19 is incredible and to get here is something I’d always wanted to do.

“I didn’t expect it to be this soon but I feel it will really help me grow as a player and a person.”

Spivey had also been a key member of a successful Seevic college side.

And he is now looking forward to being reunited with coach Andy Holloway.

“I was lucky enough to have had some individual coaching at Seevic with Andy, he’s a quality coach and really knew what he was talking about,” said Spivey.

“He was involved in the set up and was keen on me going over to Blackheath.

“They came down to watch me play for the college and looked at my highlight videos and I was fortunate enough for them to offer me a contract.

“My aim now is to break into the starting line-up and to make sure I improve.”

However, Spivey is also sad to be leaving Westcliff.

“Westcliff is obviously where I love playing my rugby and I’ve made such a huge bond and relationship with the club and the boys,” said the youngster.

“I felt really involved there and it was so hard to leave.

“But I had to do what was best for me in this situation and that was to make the move to go onwards and upwards which Westcliff were very understanding about. “