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Harry Clarke
Scrum Half5
Try
7
Appearances
25
Points scored
700WonDrawnLost
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1st XVBiography
Player Profile: Harry ClarkeFew players embody the Selby RUFC pathway quite like Harry Clarke, a scrum-half who has worn the maroon and gold for as long as he can remember. Having started playing the moment an age group existed for him, Harry is a true product of the club’s junior section — developing year after year into the sharp, energetic and instinctive half-back he is today. Now 2nd Team Captain and increasingly involved in 1st XV rugby, he’s become a key figure across the senior setup.
Harry’s standout memory from his junior days came as part of the Colts, lifting the Yorkshire Plate — a moment that cemented his love for the competitive side of the game and his bond with his teammates. That sense of team spirit still drives him now, reflected in how he prepares for big matches: a big breakfast, plenty of fluids, and a calm, focused build-up.
On the pitch, Harry models much of his game on Aaron Smith, the All Black whose speed, decision-making and scanning are trademarks of the modern scrum-half. One piece of advice that has stuck with him through the years is simple but essential: “Always scan the field before getting the ball from the ruck.” It’s become a cornerstone of his play.
When asked about favourite Selby memories, Harry doesn’t hesitate: the day Selby travelled to Morley — who were sitting second in the league — and put 50+ points on them to all but secure the title last season. A day when everything clicked.
Around the club, Harry is known for his sense of humour and relaxed personality. He names Jack Porter as his favourite teammate to play alongside (“the guy loves shower beers”), and if he could swap places with anyone for a day, he’d pick Joe Styrin — purely for the moustache. There are a few constants in Harry’s world: Liam Hogan is the last person he wants to partner with in tackle practice, a pie is the ideal post-training feed, and his Saturday-night karaoke go-to is unapologetically ‘It’s Not Unusual’ by Tom Jones.
The character of the squad shines through in his answers:
Biggest joker? James Dugher — “but not on purpose.”
Longest to get ready after a game? Also Dugher.
Most trusted to organise a night out? Joe Styrin.
Least trusted? Dugher yet again.
When thinking ahead, Harry believes Webbo has all the makings of a future rugby coach, and if the squad was ever stranded on an island, he reckons Liam Hogan would survive the longest — mainly because “he’s not fully evolved yet so wouldn’t be out of place.”
But beneath the jokes and team banter lies a strong appreciation for what makes Selby RUFC special. Harry credits Dan Heath as a major influence in his rugby development, and he speaks often about the importance of the club’s community feel — something he values above all.
For younger players making their way through the age groups, his advice is straightforward: “Stick it out. A lot drop out after Colts, but it only gets more fun at senior level.” And if he could speak to his younger self ahead of that very first match? “Make the most of it before everything hurts the day after.”
How would the lads describe him in three words? Harry reckons simply: “Weird probably.”
What does the Selby family mean to him? One word: “Lots.”
A home-grown leader, a reliable scrum-half, and a character every squad needs — Harry Clarke continues to represent everything Selby RUFC aim to build.
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