Taylorian 2020

82 U16A In my ten years coaching rugby at Merchant Taylors’, I’m not sure I have ever coached a group of players with as much guts and dogged determination. Their rugby journey since the Fourth Form has at times been a rollercoaster, but this year their rugby really started to come to life. The maturity and physical development seemed to click, and they went on to go undefeated. Everything this group did, they did for each other, and that was one of the key ingredients of their success. I’ve mentioned that they had a dogged determination: despite going unbeaten, they did not win every game, drawing level on two occasions. They also didn’t play champagne rugby all the time — but then, who does? The never-say-die attitude was this team’s ace card, and they used it to great effect. Some of the games were electric, and the boys put on such a show for the onlooking supporters. It’s always difficult to pick out individual players, and I believe this side’s achievements resulted from how they have all gelled as a team. That said, at the end-of-season awards meal we highlighted three players for their achievements. Player of the Season was awarded to Dylan Patel, who without doubt proved one of the most effective players up front, doing the work behind the scenes that nobody ever sees. He is also one of the most fearless players I have coached and was a dominant physical presence. Ryan Wilkins was the most improved player of the season; he went from being a relatively inexperienced midfielder to a multi-talented half back and centre, who grew into the role and became a key figure in this side. He finished the season playing at a level that far exceeded my expectations. The final award, for Players’ Player of the Season, was awarded to Archie Clarke. He is a devastating runner, with tricks up his sleeve that defenders simply couldn’t challenge. This was an exceptional season for these boys, with so many great memories. I’m excited to see them develop next season. Boys, it has been a pleasure! Mr L D Foot