Oxford's All American boy can't wait for Twickenham
Derek Asbun is revelling in being Oxford's All American boy. And as the only non-Blue in the Oxford University pack due to take on arch-rivals Cambridge at Twickenham on Thursday, 8 November he isn’t letting the nerves get to him.
Asbun only arrived in Englandthis summer to follow a post graduate history course at Oxford. But in a very short space of time he has made a major impact, so much so that he could be one of the surprise packages in the 130th meeting of the two universities.
Having started playing rugby at High School in California, Asbun went on to represent USA Under19 and became won All American honours in 2010 and 2011 while playing for the prestigious University of Califonia, Berkeley.
But the 23-year-old Asbun admits none of his previous honours will come close to the feeling he will get running out at Twickenham Stadium to win a Blue for Oxford
"Winning a Blue will be the pinnacle of my career and it's something nobody can take away. Before I came to Oxford I didn't know the whole tradition but I've been educated on it quickly,” said Asbun.
"Just walking around the university, looking at the buildings and the history you really feel the traditions, and seeing how these boys get up for it really weighs on you."
John Carter's Dark Blues side will go into the defence of the title they won last year on the back of two consecutive defeats, to Northampton Saints andEsherrespectively, but Asbun isn’t worried about the outcome on the big day.
"There's been a lot to learn from the recent games. Esher was one of the hardest games of the season and we all know the potential we have, said Asbun.
"All year we have had some good competition in every position, but especially in the pack. That's really starting to show as we get closer to Varsity time.
"Everyone feels the pressure of defending the title but JC (Carter) is an absolute leader and a big inspiration. Everyone wants to prove it wasn't a fluke last year and we're here to back up that win."
