Hero photograph
 
Photo by Mr. Mark Ealey

1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th XVs

Mark Ealey —

Our senior school teams are doing particularly well

Our 1st XV is building nicely to claim a top-four spot this season. Not only are they playing good rugby, but in typical St. Bede's fashion, they are representing the College well both on and off the field. 

Our 2nd XV is also excelling. Second teams in schools with genuine rugby programmes play a key role in terms of developing players to excel the following year, either in their system or in clubs after the boys leave school. With the removal of the U16 grade, our 3rd XV has become our genuine third team from this season, so the competition for positions in our three most senior teams has become even fiercer. If we count some of the boys in the 4th XV, each week there are now upwards of 80 young men in our senior school teams who are pressing their claim for positions. The level in U18 section 1 is particularly high - it is no exaggeration to say that the teams at the top of this section could compete in the Crusader Region 1st XV tournament. As a result, those involved in the 2nd XV face expectations, scrutiny and pressures similar to what is felt at 1st XV level. In this context, we are very grateful to the coaches and managers who contribute their time and effort to help the boys enjoy their rugby in our 2nd XV and beyond. 

Our 3rd XV, a younger group of aspiring players is also doing us proud. Many are of U16 age, but they are proving to be very competitive in the U18 grade.

Our 4th XV are always contenders in their section and this year is no exception. They are a well-run team with the coaches boasting a total of more than 50 years involvement in St. Bede's rugby.

St. Bede's is very lucky with the quality of its coaches and managers and with the large number of staff members who are involved in our Rugby Programme. We are very grateful to them for their contribution to our Rugby.