Sport

SPORT News from the Rugby Pitch

1st XV Rugby:

This year’s first team brought together an exiting mix  of last year’s hardest working 2nd XV players, well experienced (2019-20) 1st XV players and some incredibly talented former 16A players. The first team training group has a very dominant pack and highly skilled back line best suited to playing a blend of Exeter Chiefs forward orientated pick and drive style Rugby with Harlequin’s flair in the backs. 16a Rugby game situations developing their Bristol Bears style of expansive rugby. Although this is a taxing year 15a Rugby: After a good season overall last year, the Year Nine boys, now confident in their own abilities and the Eastbourne style of rugby, have wowed the coaching staff with their high work rate. 14a Rugby Despite the restrictions in response to covid, our year nine boys have shown great maturity and passion in their incredible work ethic and hunger to improve as rugby players. This is shown by the boys’ consistent attendance to the optional Saturday sessions and the effort they put in despite not being able to reap the rewards in a match setting. Coming from its dynamic pack and nimble back line, Year Nine’s greatest strength is in its depth. In the coming years this year group’s versatility will act as a springboard in the development of their ability to play fast-paced senior Rugby. Although disappointed with the fact that they are not able to represent the college in matches the upper sixth, boys have been working hard and pushing each other in their game-based training sessions. The sixth form boys’ continued commitment to their strength and conditioning and Saturday sessions will no doubt set them apart when it comes to university team

During the first half of term, the Year Eleven boys’ great commitment by working hard on the pitch and training was mainly focused on decision making. in the gym, something that will give them an edge They then moved on to applying their new skills in when it comes to playing in the sixth form.

selections. Academically, the Year Eleven boys are showing In attack the 15As have been focused on learning; new structures, how to recognise which lines are on and when and how to exploit gaps in their opposition's defence. On the defensive side they have

been taught how to drift effectively under pressure. Because of the limitation on contact, Mr Mason and Mr Roberts have been focusing on developing individual skills such as: ball handling and evasion whilst creating some chemistry between players with teamworking exercises.

This year group’s wide skillset and maturity beyond their age will make them ones to watch for their time at the college.