The Pocklingtonian 2017/2018 | Page 58

SPORT RUGBY REVIEW Senior Rugby. Well it started well, with the school leading the way and trialling a 10 side version of the game to help the transition into 7’s. We came a very credible 3rd that day drawing with Durham, in a tournament were we could have easily been in the final and winning it. The 2nd team played in a good games against the U16 and Pocklington club, including several school players. They again performed really well and were unlucky not to win it. Given all of this with luck and hard work we hoped to do well in our 7’s term. However, the weather put an end to that. Therefore it is very difficult to pick a most improved player, however all of the U17’s have impressed and stand outs have been; most surprising 7’s player Tom Bean, most improved 7’s player Jonty Goddard and 7’s player Rob Boddy. Middle School; The U16’s have played in two tournaments, all at Pocklington as well, and host Pocklington 7’s part two today, 2pm. They have come 3rd in all their festival with a very similar story throughout this season, a talented team who have had a disappointing season. However they have and are improving on their core skills. Most improved player Ed James and player of the 7’s season Henry Hughes. Their first game next week is on the live stream from Rosslyn Park 10.40 against Sherbourne. They are in a tough draw. The 15’s have been outstanding, reaching the North U15 National Schools final, which is a higher level cup than last year teams. They lost 5-7 in a tense game, spoilt by the wind. A real shame. They have been unable to play any 7’s, which is hugely disappointing for them (and us). Hopefully we have made some solid foundations for the summer tour and next season. The U14’s won comfortably against Hill House, Ampleforth and then impressively against Mount St Mary’s. They played really well at times, making good decisions in defence and attack. Most improved Player Joe Cheney and 7’s player of the season Danny Prescott. Lower School: the 13’s had many games cancelled due to the weather. They did really well despite injuries. In their group games they won one against Mount St Mary’s drew one against Hymers, (both teams beating them at 15’s) losing to the eventual winners RGS Newcastle. Well Done to an improving team. Player of the year James Coutie, Most improved Harry Snelling. The 12’s gain the most improved team of the year. I was really impressed by them and they were the 3rd best team at the tournament, however they were very tired against Bradford. Impressively they thrashed Hymers and Barnard Castle who had beaten them earlier in the season. Stand out players for me are Tom Council, Freddie Parsonage and Stan Stone. I am really proud of the progress shown by the lower school in particular, well done to the coaches, Mr Perham and Mr Towner. Richard Wareham Head Rugby Learner 56 THE POCKLINGTONIAN