Estonian rugby league footballer (born 2006)
Akim Matvejev|
| Full name | Akim Matvejev |
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| Born | (2006-06-29) 29 June 2006 (age 18)
Tallinn, Estonia |
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| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
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| Position | Prop |
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As of 19 September 2024 |
Akim Matvejev (born 29 June 2006) is an Estonian professional rugby league footballer who plays as a prop forward for the Castleford Tigers in the Super League.
Background
Matvejev was born in Tallinn, Estonia. He moved with his family to England in 2012.[3]
He studied at Bruntcliffe Academy and Leeds College of Building.[3]
Matvejev played junior rugby league for Drighlington ARLFC after he took up the sport aged 12. He joined the Castleford Tigers development system at scholarship level.[3]
Playing career
In April 2024, Matvejev signed a two-year contract with the Castleford Tigers alongside nine academy teammates.[4] He was first named in the 21-man squad to face Leigh on 1 August and assigned squad number 39, although did not feature.[5][6] On 13 September, Matvejev made his Super League debut for Castleford against St Helens as an interchange.[7][8] In doing so, he became the first Estonian to play in the Super League.[9][10] He made his first senior start the following week against Huddersfield.[11][12]
References