Writes Scott de Weymarn, Head of Sport Scholarship
Rugby at Merchant Taylors’ has always been about more than just the game – it’s about pride, tenacity, and loyalty to the school. In recognition of these values, the Taylors’ Rugby Cap initiative was introduced three years ago to celebrate those who have shown exceptional commitment to representing the school on the rugby field. The award is reserved for boys who achieve 50 appearances betweenthe Fourths and Upper Sixth, a feat that demands not only skill but also consistency, determination, and, at times, a little luck in staying injury-free.
One of our boys who was recently awarded a cap was Oliver I. (U6th). We caught up with him to find out more about his time playing Rugby at Taylors’.
Rugby is a demanding sport – what challenges have you faces along the way, and how did you overcome them?
One significant challenge which I have learnt to manage over the years is knowing when to take a break. Rugby is a physical sport where your body is put under lots of stress and injuries are not uncommon. Learning that playing through injury is never worth it, is a tough, yet valuable lesson, that I am glad to have not learnt the hard way.
Merchant Taylors’ rugby programme emphasizes values like determination, perseverance, shared experiences and connections. How have these values shaped you as a player and as a person?
Having been playing with broadly the same group of players from U14 all the way up to 1st XV, we have grown and developed together, experiencing similar challenges along our journey, and as a result forming close bonds which I hope will last well beyond school and rugby.
How do you think the lessons you’ve learned from rugby will help you beyond school, in life or future careers?
I think I have developed a strong work ethic and resilience, as a result of years of hard work on and off the pitch. The S&C programme which Merchant Taylors’ has to offer was particularly effective, giving me a strict routine which I held myself to throughout each week; not just on gameday. Regular opportunities like these where I could push myself and test my limits in the gym, and then see the results take effect on the pitch, taught me that hard work pays off, and I will take that forwards to all my future endeavours.
What advice would you give to younger students who are just starting their rugby journey at Merchant Taylors’?
My advice would be to take every opportunity which comes your way, and to not take anything for granted. Your time is limited, and injuries may cut that time down, so push yourself and see how much you can achieve.
If you could sum up your rugby experience at Merchant Taylors’ in three words, what would they be – and why?
Three words to describe my rugby experience at Merchant Taylor’s would be: exciting, memorable and fulfilling. Opportunities like Friday Night Lights and various tournaments were very exciting and were always something that I would look forward too. Through all the Saturday fixtures, exhibition games and rugby trips, I have made some incredible memories with an amazing group of people. These are memories which you could not replicate anywhere else, and ones which I hope will stay with me very a very long time. From going from a new and hopeful U14 looking up to the awe-inspiring 1st XV, to putting that shirt on myself and representing the school has been a very fulfilling journey, full of many proud achievements. I am proud to have been a part of it.
