Dawson joined the Falcons senior academy squad in the summer of 2005, having previously been involved with the club on a part time basis while at Barnard Castle School.

The back rower has represented England at Under-18s level, and appeared for the Falcons Academy as they won the Langholm Sevens at the tail end of the 2004/5 season.

 
School/university: Barnard Castle School, Newcastle University
 
Previous clubs: Darlington
 
Nicknames: Pinhead
 
Favourite TV show: Most of the soaps
 
Favourite film: Top Gun
 
Favourite music: I like most music, but the Wurzels are an all time favourite along with all the old classics
 
Favourite food: Carvery
 
Most like to meet: A hunt protestor in a dark alley
 
Least like to meet: Tony Blair
 
Best moment in rugby: All the games leading up to the Daily Mail Schools Cup final with Barnard Castle
 
Best moment outside of rugby: Being out hunting on the last day before the ban
 
Favourite place to visit: Northumberland
 
Team-mate least like to share a room with and why: Tim Visser, he complains about everything and has some annoying habits!
 
I love: Going to the beach (but not to train)
 
I hate: Foxes