Lost 5-40 vs CBHS U14B "Black"

Going in to this week's game, Christchurch BHS U14B "Black" had won three of their four competition matches, with our boys having won two and lost two, making this a contest between the third and fourth placed teams in Section 2 of the U14 Grade. 

Our U14 "Black" team has settled into its training and playing routine with student coaches Aidan Viney and Bram Lutters, who were assisted in the early stages of the season by old boy Will Tucker, before he relocated to Otago. Aidan plays for the 3rd XV at halfback and Bram was vying for a spot in our U18 teams until illness cruelly ruled him out this season. Bram is now making a slow but steady recovery. Shane Carroll took over the role of team manager from Charlotte Love early in the season after her son Noah switched to the "Red" team. 

Match Report

The U14 Black team has settled into the season well after a couple of tough games at the start of the season against Section 1 teams. Aidan and Bram (and Will before he had to move to Dunedin) have got the boys tracking nicely with their coaching. It’s a huge task and we are very appreciative of the time and effort they have committed to the boys. They set an outstanding example of what it means to make a contribution to others which I hope our boys can learn from. Also a big thanks to Mark for all his work in supporting the teams and providing plenty of opportunity for the boys to grow their game.

As the season has progressed the boys have got to know each other and there’s now plenty of banter – maybe sometimes too much at some trainings…. The boys enjoy each other’s company and are enjoying their rugby which is what it’s all about. The squad is a big one with 28 players, including 19 forwards. This has meant some stand downs and quite a bit of work for Bram and Aidan to give everyone a fair amount of game time whilst still ensuring we have the right balance on the park. While this isn’t the optimum, it has been pleasing to see the boys accept the process and make the effort to turn up and support on game day even if they aren’t playing. This is helping drive a stronger team culture. Their rugby is improving each week and it’s pleasing to see plenty of fight in their games in what is becoming a very competitive Section 2. There’s always something to work on and we are encouraging the boys to take some ownership in this area by identifying what is or isn’t working so they become better decision makers on the field. We’ve had great sideline support as well with plenty of encouragement so a big thanks to all the families and friends.

I’ve enjoyed being part of the group after taking on the role from Charlotte. They are a great bunch of young men and it is pleasing to see both their rugby improving and their own personal development. With the right attitude and mindset at training along with a real effort at positivity and encouragement when we speak to each other I’m sure we’ll see a pretty slick St Bede's U14 Black side by season’s end.

Shane Carroll

Coach Bram Lutters:

"Coaching the boys is a rewarding feeling, with a sense of satisfaction that comes from getting things right. The other thing I feel it helps with is organisation skills, helping to develop those for my future."

Coach Aidan Viney:

"This is my first year of coaching and I'm enjoying it a lot. It's great to see boys of all different levels coming to play and improving. As a student coach you learn a lot about the game, especially about how  important it is for everyone to complete their key roles. The biggest challenge is coaching players in positions you haven't played before, but also this allows you to understand everyone's role."