A product of Campbell College in Belfast, Mark Best’s raw talents first become clear when he turned out for Ireland U18 as a flanker in 2011. Converted to an aggressive, hard-running centre, Best spent two years playing for Ulster U20 before entering the working world. Despite not initially forming part of the Ulster Academy, Mark’s form in the domestic club scene saw him called up to the Ulster A squad and offered a Development Contract. A regular feature in the club’s British & Irish Cup squad, Best’s maturity, and ability to lead men saw him handed the proverbial captain’s armband, before deciding to leave home and sign with RFU Championship side, the Jersey Reds.

Mark thrived at the ambitious club, whose forwards-orientated game plan was replaced by an expansive strategy to make use of his superb offloading ability and educated left boot. With a sizeable frame, Best is more than capable of ‘bashing down the barndoor’, but it is his quick feet and slick handling that has led to many a video clip going viral on social media. Despite an unfortunate injury in the 2019/20 season, the exploits of Mark Best (in over 50 caps for the Reds) were enough to convince the Doncaster Knights to aggressively recruit the seasoned campaigner. At only 26-years-old, Best is in the peak of his career and widely tipped to emerge at the highest level.