County Upper Academy player Jed Robinson’s decision to swap the oval ball for a basketball is paying dividends, after the teenager received an England call-up.

Robinson earned an under-17 call-up against Scotland recently, despite the fact that just two years previously, he was an aspiring rugby player.

His taste for basketball came when his school teachers pushed him to go for Suffolk Under-15 basketball trials in the summer of 2012. He did not make the Suffolk team that year, but his love for basketball began.

It was after joining the County Upper Academy and playing in the Under-19 Elite Basketball Academy League that he really started to improve as a player under coach Darren Johnson.

“Jed is a really hard worker,” said Johnson.

“He has really impressed me with his commitment and work ethic this season, his selection into the England team is a true reflection of his commitment and hard work.

“There are many qualities that will help players become successful, but the two most important qualities that brings everything together are effort and a desire to achieve. To me, talent means nothing if talent does not work hard.”

County Upper Basketball Academy have been developing basketball players for six years now, with 21 players accepting basketball opportunities in the USA and more going on to UK Universities.

“If Jed keeps this dedication up, I truly believe he will have a bright future in basketball,” Johnson added.

“I am really looking forward to helping Jed reach his potential as a basketball player seeing where he can get to after County Upper Basketball Academy.”