Year 7 and 8 Rugby Tour: A Memorable Experience

Last week, students from Years 7 and 8 embarked on an unforgettable rugby tour, filled with competition, learning, and inspiration. This tour provided a unique opportunity for the students to engage deeply with the sport, both on and off the field.

Day 1: Spectating and Meeting Legends

The tour kicked off with an exhilarating trip to watch the Leicester Tigers face off against Gloucester in the Gallagher Premiership. The students were thrilled to be part of the live action, waving flags on TNT Sport. They witnessed a spectacular match where Leicester Tigers triumphed over Gloucester with a 29-26 victory, thanks to a thrilling second-half comeback.

Adding to the excitement, the students met some of rugby’s greats, including Austin Healey, now a presenter and broadcaster with TNT Sport, former Welsh international Dan Biggar, and rising star Arthur Clark, who plays for Gloucester and England U20s. The day concluded with a lively team dinner, a meeting, and a fun-filled rugby quiz night.

Day 2: Training and Fun Activities

Monday was packed with activities, starting with a training session led by Leicester Tigers coaches. The students also enjoyed a behind-the-scenes stadium tour and had the chance to purchase merchandise from the Club Shop. The day ended on a high note with a round of Football Golf, adding a fun twist to their rugby-focused tour.

Day 3: Competitive Play and Exploration

Tuesday brought more excitement with a visit to the Thinktank Museum in Birmingham. The Year 7s then played their first touring game against Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School. The match was intense and competitive, showcasing the skills and determination of both teams. Despite their efforts, the game ended with a 30-20 victory for the hosts.

Day 4: History and Learning

The final day of the tour was both educational and inspiring. It began with a dynamic science quiz, followed by a visit to the Webb Ellis Museum in Rugby, where the students delved into the rich history of the sport. The tour concluded with a visit to Rugby School, the birthplace of rugby, where William Webb Ellis is alleged to have first run with the ball in 1823; a bronze-cast statue of Webb Ellis, produced in 1997, stands outside the School.

The rugby tour was a resounding success with both students and staff, offering them a blend of competitive play, learning opportunities, and memorable experiences.