Writes Scott de Weymarn, Assistant Head of Middle School
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 between Year 9 and Year 13, a feat that demands not only skill but also consistency, determination, and, at times, a little luck in staying injury-free.
The first caps were presented during the memorable rugby tour to Canada, setting the tone for what has become one of the most prestigious honours in school sport. Unlike many awards that focus solely on elite teams, this initiative is inclusive: every appearance counts, whether in the A, B, C, D, or even E teams. It’s a recognition of sustained effort and loyalty, not just individual brilliance.
Reaching 50 appearances is no small achievement. With a limited number of fixtures each season, only a handful of boys will ever reach this milestone. It requires years of dedication, balancing academic pressures with training, and overcoming the inevitable challenges of form and fitness. For those who do, the cap becomes a symbol of their journey – a tangible reminder of countless hours spent on muddy pitches, the highs of victory, and the lessons learned in defeat.
Last week, we celebrated the first awarding of a Rugby Cap this season, as Thomas E. reached his 50th appearance following the fixture against Reeds. His achievement reflects the very qualities this initiative seeks to honour: tenacity, commitment, and a deep sense of pride in representing Merchant Taylors’.
The Rugby Cap sits at the pinnacle of a tiered system of recognition:
- Gold-Topped Socks for players who reach 25 appearances
- Cufflinks for those who represent the 1st XV 20 times
Together, these awards create a culture where every contribution matters, and every player has something to strive for.
The caps have been a brilliant introduction in recent years and I have really enjoyed seeing the excitement among the boys as they approach the milestone. It is fair to say that they were all delighted for Thomas to receive his cap recently. It is a testament to his dedication and commitment not just to rugby but to strength and conditioning too which has undoubtedly helped him stay physically robust over the years. We really hope that the boys treasure the caps and that it is a source of great pride both now and far into the future.
It is only right that we celebrate the boys' dedication and the commitment shown to school sport. It is a way of thanking them for their efforts over an extended period of time and hopefully the caps provide a lasting and fond memory for them. As the season unfolds, we look forward to seeing more boys chase these milestones, knowing that behind every cap, sock, and cufflink lies a story of perseverance, teamwork, and school spirit.
We spoke to Thomas after to get his thoughts on this achievement and his time with Rugby at Taylors’.
Rugby is a demanding sport – what challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?
Rugby requires a high level of fitness and skill, and I have constantly had to work on these things. When my team was short of a prop at U16, for example, I enjoyed the physical and technical challenge of learning to scrummage in the front row.
Merchant Taylors’ rugby programme emphasizes values like determination, perseverance, shared experiences and connections. How have these values shaped you as a player and a person?
It is the shared experience of playing with my mates each week that drives me to keep working hard at my rugby. The determination I’ve learnt on the pitch has also helped me face challenges in other parts of my life.
How do you think the lessons you’ve learned from rugby will help you beyond school, in life or future careers?
Sport, and particularly rugby, teaches you many things. You learn to win, to lose, and to respect those around you: very useful lessons in any walk of life.
What advice would you give to younger students who are just starting their rugby journey at Merchant Taylors’?
Throw yourself into all the opportunities you are offered, and stick at it. Your best and most memorable experiences playing rugby will be those you work the hardest for.
If you could sum up your rugby experience at Merchant Taylors’ in three words, what would they be – and why?
Tough – rugby is a hard game. Team – the most important part of rugby for me. And of course, Fun!
