Owen began his rugby journey aged only three, playing for his local side Ashby RFC. The now back row initially plied his trade as a centre before his raw power and dynamism caught the watchful eye of Leicester Tigers who brought the teenager into their academy system.

Chester’s transition from centre to back row was a smooth and successful one which culminated in the award of a first professional contract with the Premiership outfit.

While honing his skills in a top-level environment, Owen also gained invaluable senior league experience while on loan at Leicester Lions during an outstanding 2022/23 campaign which delivered the National Two West title and a first-ever promotion into English rugby’s third tier.