MATTY Ashton hopes to pass on the benefit of his experience to rugby league’s next generation after making it to the England team.
Not least the message ‘never give up’ after going from hotel swimming pool lifeguard and McDonald’s burger flipper to the Test stage.
The Warrington ace made his international debut in the 64-0 thrashing of France after a sensational start to the Super League season, one which earned him a new deal until 2026.
But there is no way he will get ahead of himself. His days wondering if he will ever make it remain fresh in his mind.
So Ashton is guiding youngsters at amateur side Rochdale Mayfield, where he developed after not being taken in by a club's academy.
The England whiz, 24, who admitted to SunSport he is still learning his wing role after coming through as a full back, said: “It’s more about making sure everyone’s confident and making sure they never give up.
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“Telling them that if they don’t get picked up by an academy, it’s not the end of the world.
“I help them embrace that. It’s something I’d maybe like to do one day once I’ve cemented my playing career, helping young players who maybe don’t get picked up at academy level.
“You’ve always got to thank where you’ve come from and stay in contact with them. Mayfield did so much for me, I’d just like to give back whatever I can.
“A lot of my close mates play there and I’m doing a bit of work around the club. It’s a club that’s close to my heart.
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“I’ll help out when I’m asked to go down to do a bit of coaching. It’s been good but I’m not ready to coach the way they play yet!”
Leaders Warrington face third-placed Hull KR tonight as both sides look to underline their title credentials.
But Rovers have lost winger Ethan Ryan to Salford for 2024 after Lachlan Coote announced his retirement at the end of the season.
He said: "It's been a very tough decision to make but I know it's the right one for me and my family."
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