The hard-working forward has been selected in the NSW Waratahs Youth Sevens (7s) Training squad.

The 45 man squad currently comprises of the best 16 and 17-year old-rugby players from across the state.

If the talented 16-year-old becomes one of the final 24, he will travel to Perth and play in National Championships from December 10 -11.

Coach, Gerard McLenaghan says Vaughan was identified as a player of interest during his performances for the Hunter Valley U/16s rep team at the recent NSW State Championships carnival. 

“His dogged defense and strength in contact didn't go unnoticed,” he says.

“Whilst those around him tired, Alex's repeat efforts at the breakdown gave us the confidence to believe that he would have a big enough engine to succeed in the Rugby 7s format.”

And, with Rugby Sevens making is debut at the Olympics in Rio this is an exciting selection for the uncompromising forward.

Vaughan says it came “out- of -the blue.”

“We did not know the selectors were watching,” he explains.

But the experienced player is keen to test his skills in this rapidly developing form of the game.

“I will give it my best,” he says.

Vaughan has been playing Rugby from a young age.

“I started playing in the under 6 Friday night competition here in Singleton,” he says.

“And have been playing representative rugby since under 12’s.”

Vaughan loves the full contact nature of the game, and the camaraderie.

McLenaghan says players will have a chance to impress coaches during regular Sunday training sessions in Sydney leading up to Nationals, as well as handful of tournaments across the state.

“During this time the squad will be trimmed down to the final 24 players who will go on to represent the state at Nationals.” 

“A final selection trial on November, 5 in Bowral against the ACT is when the team will be selected for the Nationals.”

He says training starts Sunday,  August 28.

NSW are the reigning Youth 7s National champions, with three members of last years successful team already having secured professional rugby contracts.

Vaughan selection in the 7s squad comes on the back of being chosen in the under 16 NSW Country squad.

If he gets selected for both teams, the Country teams scheduled tour of Japan tour will clash with his 7s training schedule.

This not a bad predicament for the promising young player to be in. All the best Alex for the games, and training sessions, to come.