Chambers – who is nearing the end of a controversial trial with Castleford Tigers – spoke about sport, growing up and making "mistakes" to curious pupils at Castleford High School before they raced against him in a sprint session.

Excited students clamoured to meet and get autographs from the former European gold medallist, 29, after his first community appearance.

George Panayiotou, head of sport at the Ferrybridge Road school, said: "When I introduced Dwain I said that everybody in life needs a second chance at some point, and this is his.

"In the question and answer session he spoke about sport, been young and growing up – nobody asked about his past but he did imply he'd made mistakes."

He added: "We've got some of the fastest youngsters in Wakefield so it was amazing to watch Chambers cruise past them in second gear.

"He stayed twice as long as expected and was absolutely brilliant. The pupils loved him and it was a fantastic occasion."

Chambers, who served a two-year drugs ban for taking designer steroid THG, has never played rugby league before but hopes to win a full time contract with Tigers.

Alex Green, community manager at The Jungle, said Chambers might make further appearances at Knottingley or Garforth schools.

She said: "When Dwain joined us he said he was very keen to go out into the local community and he really enjoyed himself last week.

"He's a good role model. The way he spoke about his experiences so eloquently was a credit to the club."

Chambers has yet to play a match with his squad and is fighting a lifetime Olympic ban in a bid to compete in this year's Beijing games.

l Chambers is poised to make his competitive rugby league debut in a Castleford 21s v York 21s match. See Express sport for full story.