Academy ace Ollie Devoto is starting to feel right at home in the Bath Rugby first-team.
The 20-year-old back's rapid rise through The Rec's ranks was capped when he was named as the winner of the LV=Breakthrough Player Award today.
The award recognises the next generation of young players for their performances in the LV=Cup – a competition renowned for developing future international stars.
Although his impressive displays could not be rewarded with a place in Sunday's final as well, Devoto says the award has made Bath's 22-19 defeat to West Country rivals Exeter Chiefs in the last four slightly easier to swallow.
"I'm very pleased. It's come as a bit of a surprise with the likes of [Chiefs hooker] Luke Cowan-Dickie playing so well. I spoke to him at the weekend and wished him good luck for next week," said Devoto.
"We were gutted not to get to the final, we are really striving for silverware this year. But we are still sitting in a good position in the league and that's what we've got to focus on now."
Devoto was nominated following his outstanding performances throughout all four pool stages of this season's tournament. He recorded the most impressive statistics of any back in the competition during the four group games.
In attack he made 67 metres from 23 carries, beat four defenders and made five offloads in the process. He also had a tackle success rate of 90 per cent and won three turnovers.
That form has seen Devoto win a regular place in Bath XV and he has started their last seven matches, including five at outside centre in the absence of injured England international Jonathan Joseph.
"Going up through school I saw myself as a bit of a distributer rather than a runner but playing week in, week out and working on my speed and my strength has really helped me," said Devoto.
"I've maybe struggled with confidence in the past. You look at the calibre of player you are up against as a teenager and you doubt yourself, but playing week in, week out you do gain a bit of confidence.
"It's not just me, a couple of guys really stepped up in this competition and it's a testament to the depth we have in the squad. Everyone really, really wants to play, so competition for places at the moment is huge.
"I have been very fortunate to get as much game time as I have due to injuries. I am very thankful for that. I know JJ will soon be back in action, which will be a great boost for us."
As part of the prize for winning the award, Devoto has chosen Sherborne RFC to receive a £1,000 donation from LV=, all part of the tournament sponsors commitment to fostering the development of future rugby stars.
Devoto said: "Winning award is a great feeling. To have the opportunity to give something back to Sherborne, a club that has really helped me get to this stage, is a massive honour. Thank you to everyone who voted for me."
