By: Xavier Moimoi
SEATTLE - Lawson Barton, a kid from England, created his own path by playing rugby an international sport in America. Barton was born in England where he discovered the sport of rugby. Barton then moved from England to Seattle where he found love for the sport of rugby.
Barton has been playing rugby ever since he was young, since rugby is the main sport, he’s been around growing up. But moving to America there was a big change in things. This is because in America rugby is still unheard of to this day for many people.
With all these changes Barton powered through them, still having love for the sport. Pushing Barton to join a club team called Eastside Lions.
Where he found his own community for the sport he loved. Where at practice Barton felt at home because he was around people who shared the same interests as him.
Barton states, “I love going to practice because it reminds me of England.”
With Barton being so tall at a young age he was chosen to play the lock position. Being one of the captains of the forward pack. People who also play the lock position are also the tallest people out of all the bigger people.
Playing rugby for Barton has also allowed him to travel to other states. Barton has traveled to Florida and California through rugby tournaments. Barton’s team placed second in the Florida Invitational tournament.
Traveling and playing the sport he loved, Barton has always planned to take things to the next level.
Barton states, “I plan to play rugby at the college level.”
Barton has been making his process from high school to college by attending several UCLA rugby camps. where he takes on some of the best players across America, helping him get used to the top competition from out of state.
Barton has also been watching a lot of rugby films from a professional level to help grow his own rugby skills. So, if you see Barton during class glued to his screen it’s because he’s trying to grow his rugby knowledge by watching films.