Old Leamingtonians Rugby Club were delighted to host a junior festival of rugby this weekend for a group of U14’s teams who travelled up to Warwickshire from RFU Clubs across England. The teams included Launceston RFC (known as the Cornish all blacks), with two other clubs from as far afield as Surrey (Effingham and Leatherhead RFC) and Suffolk (Woodbridge RFC).

All the teams had arranged a tour to the midlands to attend the Wasps v Saracens premiership match at the Ricoh Arena on Saturday, to be followed by some competitive matches with U14’s teams on Sunday.
Through a family connection they asked if Old Leamingtonians could and host the teams on Sunday 7th, which Old Leamingtonians were able to support.

The OL Junior section swung into action and organised a four way event in which each of the teams played all the others. A monster barbecue manned by volunteers provided players and spectators with sustenance throughout the day.

The 7th May weather was ideal for this all day outdoor event and all the lads involved thoroughly enjoyed their mini tour. All 6 matches (3 games for each club) were played on the main pitch at The Crofts with Effingham and Leatherhead proving the strongest of the contestants. Refereeing was generously provided by Warwickshire “Young Whistlers”

All of the teams swapped memorabilia and the Effingham club made a special presentation of their “Dressing Gown of Dread” to OL player Loic Dehaut who was voted for by the Effingham lads for his excellent play during the day!

Andy Hart, Head Coach of the Under 14s gathered everyone together for a closing ceremony where he thanked the players, their parents, the referees and all the volunteers for making the day so successful. He stressed how important it was for the youngsters to look after the game of rugby into the future and to cherish the friendship and camaraderie they will find through their involvement. He added that OL’s is an excellent venue, which welcomes touring teams and also local players looking to try rugby for the first time.
Old Leamingtonians has teams across all age groups from Minis to Juniors, Colts, Seniors and Ladies, so please do come along to the club. In fact, next week we are also hosting Rugby For Heroes to raise funds and awareness for military personnel, everyone is welcome.

1. Andy Hart (under 14s coach) thanking everyone for such a brilliant day
2. Loic Dehaut being presented with “Dressing Gown of Dread” by the Effingham coach