Writes Scott de Weymarn, Director of Rugby
Rugby Week is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the sporting calendar at Merchant Taylors’. It is a week that creates memories which stay with boys long after they have left the School and one that showcases everything that is special about rugby at Taylors’.
There are few occasions in school sport that bring an entire rugby community together in quite the same way. From our Under 14 boys experiencing Rugby Week for the first time to our senior players representing the School in some of their most memorable fixtures, it is a celebration of the culture, values and traditions that underpin Merchant Taylors’ Rugby Club.
While the matches themselves are naturally a focal point, Rugby Week is about far more than results. It is about friendships, shared experiences and the pride that comes with representing the School. These are the moments boys remember for years to come, and it is no surprise that Rugby Week remains a favourite topic of conversation among Old Merchant Taylors.
This year’s programme begins on Monday evening with the U15 A and B teams taking on Reading Blue Coat, with kick-off at 7.00pm.
Tuesday sees a packed schedule of fixtures, starting with the U14 C, D and E teams against Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet, at 5.15pm, before the U14 A and B sides face Reading Blue Coat under the lights at 7.00pm.
The action continues on Wednesday, with the U16 A and B teams taking on Reading Blue Coat from 3.30pm, before attention turns to the senior fixtures as the 2nd XV and 1st XV take centre stage.
A particular highlight of the week comes on Thursday evening with our Community Barbarians Festival. The event brings together young players from local clubs and prep schools at U9, U10 and U11 level, giving them the opportunity to experience rugby at Merchant Taylors’ and be part of the Rugby Week atmosphere. It is a fantastic showcase for the game and a wonderful chance to welcome the wider rugby community onto our campus. Seeing so many young players enjoying themselves and creating their own rugby memories makes it one of the most special events of the week.
We would love to see as many parents, families and supporters as possible on the touchlines throughout the week. The atmosphere they create adds enormously to the occasion and provides tremendous support for the boys.
Good luck to all the players taking part. We hope Rugby Week once again delivers memorable experiences, competitive rugby and moments that our boys will look back on with pride for many years to come.
