Contents President’s message

A welcome from the President The Rugby Bernard Atkinson reflects on those who have served our game Fives Rugby Fives Association “Let us now praise Dunstan’s 13 years, Ian Fuller, Alleyn’s Association famous men...” 12 years, Tony Burrows, Oundle 10 Annual Review 2015-16 2015-16 Never have those years and Mike Case, Oundle six years resonant words – in all 268 years of combined 3 President’s message 25 Derby Moor court President from Ecclesiasticus experience and commitment to our enclosure in pictures Bernard Atkinson seemed more cause. Special mention has to be made Men’s, universities and appropriate than here of Ian Fuller, who has served the 4 Deputy President U25s season review Ian Fuller remembers when we look back RFA for 44 years as coach, mentor, sage, 26 David Bawtree over the history of General Secretary, Treasurer and endeavour shown President, all done with quiet 6 Ladies’ season review 27 Obituaries General Secretary by the many, efficiency, not to mention his resolute Phil Atkinson 8 Schools’ 28 Rankings many great contributors to the world acquisition of pots and gongs. There is season review RFA Club manager of Rugby Fives. not one among these who is not 30 Charitable Trust Hamish Buchanan As we have been drawn by the worthy of a Gold Medal. 9 School reports fascination of the Olympic Games in To all our ‘famous’ men we give our 31 Results round-up the summer, we have heard a simple thanks, (less so to “their fathers that Directors 15 History of Fives at message again and again: success for begat them”), but equally so to their Sedbergh Kathleen Briedenhann the few depends upon the huge efforts successors who carry on where they 6 Chris Burrows of the coach and the team in support, left off, and daily continue to secure 19 RFA Club report Charlie Brooks without whom there can be no our future. Paddy d’Ancona success. So it is with Fives, where the But it is not just ‘men’ who play this ‘famous men’ have been both plentiful 20 Club reports Bob Dolby and dedicated – not that you will find Ian Fuller any who would apply the term 26 David Gardner ‘famous’ to themselves – and we owe it ‘If we look at Peter King to them to recognize that it is on their Stuart Kirby dedication that the past, present and retirees in recent Alex Smith future of our sport is built. years, the list My predecessor has rightly pointed Alexandra Steel to the need to safeguard our courts, inspires both awe Dan Tristao but I look here at the succession of our and admiration’ famous men, so vital also to the www.rugbyfivesassociation.net safeguarding of the game. We lost another of my predecessors, Jerry Editor: Tom Webster Cooper, earlier this year; he was in game: we have just had a record- Designer Michele Hall charge of Fives at Bedford School for breaking year of Women’s Fives. If you Commissioning Editor: Philip Atkinson 30 years, securing in that time seven read Alexandra Steel’s account of the Contributing writers: David Barnes, Schools’ Singles and two Doubles titles. success of various tournaments Hamish Buchanan, Bob Dolby, John East, A great servant of the game. throughout the year you will see why David Hebden, Andy Pringle, Alexandra Steel, Ian Fuller as well as many club secretaries If we look at retirees in recent years, we wish to keep the momentum going and masters-in-charge of Fives the list inspires both awe and by introducing an U23 competition for Contributing photographers: David Barnes, admiration: Colin Stewart, Bloxham 41 Ladies. Hamish Buchanan, Bob Dolby, years, Mike Cleaver, Sherborne 36 We hope this will encourage the Dan Grant, Will Ellison, Denise Hall-Wilton, Ed Hatton, Andy Pringle years, Charles Swan, Merchiston Castle small but growing number of female For the RFA’s Policies, Memorandum and Articles 24 years, Spencer Beal, Eastbourne 23 students who play Fives to enter, along of Association, please see the website years, Laurence Catlow, Sedbergh and with some of the impressive www.rugbyfivesassociation.net Charles Brookman, Edinburgh schoolgirls who we saw in action at TOP Peter King receives the King Cup from Dan Tristao to mark his retirement; CENTRE Company number: 04837244 Academy, each 21 years, Peter King, St some of those tournaments. Hopefully Registered Charity: 1136872 Spencer Beal at his retirement match in 2015; 15 9 Paul’s 17 years, Ian Torkington, Christ’s next year we can report on the success BOTTOM The winners of the Doubles Plate at Hospital 14 years, Rick Bodenham, St of that initiative. the Ladies’ Championships 2016

2 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 3 2015-16 - Men

Men’s Season Review Andy Pringle reviews the men’s, students’ and U25 game

Yet again, we can look back on a Dan Grant, too, was a consistent vintage season; and, yet again, we’re challenger; and, although he didn’t looking at a year where engravers reach a singles final during 2015-16, he spent an awful lot of time engraving frequently earned a place in the semis. the names Ellison and Tristao on the Instead, it was as a doubles partner RFA’s silverware. that he really made his mark, reaching Just as they did in 2014-15, Dan and the final of every doubles event he Will dominated the season. Between entered, going on to win three titles, in them, they picked up all but one of the Durham, Manchester and Clifton. main open singles titles, and the only As you may already have predicted, reason they perhaps missed out on though, it was Will and Dan T who that one – the Scottish Open – was that dominated the doubles, and Dan G’s neither of them could attend the event. wins came when partnering one of However, it seems fitting that them. Overall, Will picked up five titles the big prize – the National Singles championship – should go to Will, who won six singles titles to Dan’s two. ‘Over the What’s perhaps most remarkable is that neither ever seems to suffer an course of the ‘off day’. Over the course of the season, season, Dan Dan or Will only ever lost to each other; and every time either of them entered and Will only a singles tournament, they reached ever lost to the final. That’s seriously impressive stuff – and all the more so when you each other’ consider the quality of the youngsters nipping at their heels. – including the National title with runner-up in Durham and Giggleswick. other with Ben Beltrami), but with Of course, that’s not to say Dan or Charlie Brooks – while Dan T They continued their form to the Charlie Brooks taking the national Will are old, but it says something took three. Veterans’ Championships, where John title, Andy Pringle the Veterans, David for the youthful state of the top of You can read Dave Hebden’s article was runner-up to the newly qualified Hebden the Vintage and Hebden and the game at the moment that we on the season’s rankings on page Veteran Matt Cavanagh in the singles Wilkinson the Masters, there was a tend to look on the pair as seasoned 28, but his work was made all the before winning the doubles title with light blue colour to the major doubles campaigners – despite neither having more difficult by the fact that every Andy Pringle in a classic three-game titles this season. To cap it, Ed also yet reached their 30th birthday. combination of the top three won at final against multiple national open won the Winchester Fives doubles. It Indeed, if you scan the list of semi- least one event. Will teamed up Dan champions Hamish and Robin Perry. perhaps goes without saying he was finalists throughout this season’s T to win in London, and with Dan Elsewhere in the age categories, it partnering a certain Mr Ellison! competitions, precious few of them are G to take the titles in Durham and was a repeat story: Ian Fuller retained With such a strong showing from older than the top pair – and these are Manchester, while the two Dans won his Vintage singles title and Dave their current students, it was no great the players we can expect to challenge the West of England title in Clifton. Hebden repeated his remarkable feat surprise that Cambridge were again MAIN The victorious Cambridge the top two’s dominance. Again, we have to look to the likes of holding the Vintage and Masters winners in the Varsity Match, but it University squad David Butler, still a Durham student, of Butler, Kay and Beltrami to see the doubles titles at the same time – with was two other powerhouses of the ABOVE (from top) Will Ellison wins his won the only singles title not to go to closest challengers to this elite group Ian and Martin Wilkinson, respectively. game that retained their titles in the second National Singles title against Will or Dan, and Cambridge’s Ed Kay and all three reached finals during What some keen observers of the season’s main club competitions: the Dan Tristao; Ian Fuller retains his title in and Ben Beltrami again had excellent the course of the season, with David B game will notice is that all the national Old Paulines took the Owers Trophy, final against Neil Roberts; Mark Kiteley and Dan Grant win the President’s Cup; seasons. Ed was runner-up at the winning the Yorkshire Open doubles. doubles titles have a Cambridge while the Wessex Club was victorious LEFT Matt Cavanagh wins his first North West and South West Opens and These northern events at least connection. Not only did the current in the Club Championship. Veterans Singles title at Marlborough a regular semi-finalist (including in proved that there was life left in students dominate the Students and You may be one step ahead here, the Nationals), while Ben was runner- the game’s older guard: John Minta Under 25s championships (Ed Kay but who were the two clubs’ leading up in Durham and a semi-finalist in reached the final of the North West winning both singles and Matt Shaw players? Will Ellison and Dan Tristao, Manchester, Clifton and Tiverton. Open, while Hamish Buchanan was both doubles titles: one with Ed, the of course.

4 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 5 2015-16 – Ladies

T-shirts at Sedbergh

held in Sedbergh on a Saturday this year instead of a Sunday to try and increase attendance. It is pleasing to report that a brave troop of nine ladies made their way through the snow- covered Yorkshire Dales to attend the tournament, which was thoroughly well organised by Maddy Raynor, with super t-shirts thanks to Kathleen. In May came the Winchester Fives Mixed Doubles tournament at Bradfield. It was contested by a record- breaking field of 11 pairs, fighting to hold that most revered trophy, the Bradfield Cup. As always, it was a day full of laughter and cameraderie with many achieving personal goals. The competition was played in good spirits End-of-Season all round and a Plate competition Women’s Rankings was held for the first time in many May 2016 years. Congratulations go to Kathleen Position Name Points Briedenhann and Ben Beltrami for 1 (1) K.Briedenhann 84.59 winning the title after a very close final 2 (2) T.Mills 77.15 3 (4) A.Steel 68.16 against the pair who had held it for the 4 (3) M.Raynor 63.18 previous three years, Alexandra Steel 5 (6) S.Zhang 54.25 and Andy Pringle. 6 (5) L.Mathias 53.78 7 (7) A.Law 43.98 I’ve been playing and promoting 8 (8) M.Wong 42.90 Ladies Fives for many years now and 9 (9) L.Harbottle 41.37 I’ve been thrilled to see the love of 10 (10) P.Thornhill 40.64 11 (11) B.Crinnion 36.06 the game grow and mature with each 12 (12) L.Tilley 33.97 player I have met on and off court. The 13 - G.Shepherd 31.83 game is so versatile for players of all 14 (13) I.Boddy 29.14 Ladies’ Season Review 15 (14) P.Bell 28.11 ABOVE (from top) Competitors at the abilities. I implore you, if you haven’t 16 (15) C.Bedford 26.33 National Ladies Championships; Alexandra Steel reports on a record-breaking year for Ladies Fives in 2015-16 played for a while, find your local 17 - A.Lumbard 25.77 The National Champions with the President; court, come on down and get back into 18 (16) E.Shilina 25.33 The Cambridge Ladies IV with their 19 (17) K.Martin 21.17 What a year it has been for Ladies her deservedly take top spot in the first including girls from Christ’s Hospital, the swing of the game. I promise you champagne; TOP RIGHT Briedenhann and 20= (19) M.Richards 19.60 Fives. Once again the game has end-of-season rankings. Aldenham, Rugby and Blundell’s who will love it. Beltrami win the Bradfield Cup (41) K.Hird 19.60 flourished, with record-breaking The Lady’s Cup was a highly joined the adults for a full day of Fives. 22 (18) M.Nugent 17.26 23 (20) M.Whitehead 16.49 Christ’s Hospital at the Lady’s Cup entries across all ladies tournaments successful day, drawing in 28 players As so often said in these reports, the 24 (21) K.Broad 14.65 throughout 2015-2016. of all abilities for the second playing standard of Fives improves every year 25 (22) L.Browne 13.26 A special mention has to go to of this event. Competitors came from and the love of the game is extremely 26 (23) C.Henderson 13.15 27 - L.Simpson 11.35 Kathleen Briedenhann, who has Rugby, Christ’s Hospital, Aldenham, clear. I can’t recommend enough 28 (23) S.Haco 10.41 completed a ‘Grand Slam’ of titles this Eastbourne, Edinburgh and Cambridge attending the Ladies tournaments to 29 (25) D.Treloar 8.18 season. In addition to being mixed and comprised pupils, students gain experience on court with other 30 (26) L.Dan 7.42 31 (27) M.Ivanova 7.32 doubles champion, she is also singles and adults of both sexes ranging in players and visit lovely venues. 32 (28) J.Jones 7.30 and doubles champion in both Rugby age from early teens to nearly senior Next we had the first ever Varsity 33 (29) T.Gordon 6.90 and Winchester Fives – a feat that has citizenry. It was a thoroughly enjoyable Match between Oxford and Cambridge 34 (30) A.Flood 6.71 35 (31) F.Porter 6.58 never been achieved before, not even day with many games played by all, Universities, with teams of four ladies 36 (32) L.Calman-Grimsdale 6.25 by the great Paula Smith in her prime. and the goal is to increase the number playing alongside the men’s match 37 (33) J.Morton 4.56 This season saw the launch of the of participants once again next year. at St. Paul’s. Cambridge emerged 38 (34) N.Ross 4.36 39 (35) R.Patel 3.95 first official rankings for Women’s The new January date for the Ladies victorious and won the Pol Roger 40 (36) D.Black 3.91 Fives. If you are over 18 and play in Nationals turned out to be a wise champagne and now look to build on 41 (37) M.Ward 3.84 one of the ranking events you will move as it attracted many new and their success by developing a squad of 42 (38) V.King-Forbes 3.42 43 (39) K.Rolls 3.37 join the 45 players currently enjoying exciting players onto the courts at St. lady players on the fine new courts at 44 (40) W.Carling 2.46 a position on the rankings table. Paul’s. There were a record-breaking their university. 45 (41 M.Cole 2.06 Kathleen’s phenomenal season sees 25 participants showcasing their skills, The Winchester Fives Nationals were

6 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 7 Schools season review

Schools Season Review 2015-16 Around the schools 2015-16 Bob Dolby looks at a season in which boys’ and girls’ Fives flourished Individual schools report on their Fives season over the last year

Schools Fives is in good shape, with U14 level Winchester swept all before courts in regular use for matches and them, as did St. Olave’s in the U13s. Alleyn’s School achievement was by Alex Cochrane, tournaments from Tiverton to Not to be outdone, the girls produced It has been another enjoyable who won the B singles plate at the Edinburgh. Talk among those in a record-breaking entry for the seventh year of Fives at Alleyn’s, with an National Colts. charge at the National Schools National Girls’ Championships. Four encouraging numbers of both boys The senior boys have been very Tournament and at the Girls’ National schools did the double: Malvern in the and girls playing. There is a great committed and successful. A year Championships revolved more around U18s; Rugby in the U16s; Bedford deal of enthusiasm amongst our young, they performed well in the the excellence of play, the encouraging Modern in the U14s and Christ’s Year 7 and 8 pupils, and successes Nationals and are looking to do even numbers and plans for the future than Hospital in the U13s. Those playing in to report. In the National U13 Boys’ better in 2017. The senior girls played at any time in my memory. Even where the U18s gained a National Women’s competition Gwydion Wiseman in the Girls’ championships and Fives is an ‘activity’ rather than a ranking as a result. I’ve no doubt the was singles runner-up, as were thoroughly enjoyed the experience, school sport there has been positive two finalists, Malvern’s Amelia Law and Gwydion and his partner Sonny Players from Alleyn’s display their medals with Laura Dan finishing as runner- feedback, and one of them, Bedford Maggie Wong, will feature successfully Mahandren in the doubles, where up in the senior plate. Modern School, proved that in senior competitions soon. three of the four semi-final pairs were doubles finalists. Katie was also We are grateful to Howard champions can still emerge under were from Alleyn’s. In the National runner-up in the Under 13 plate. Wiseman for his coaching and to the those conditions. U13 Girls’ Championships Martha The teams in the middle school RFA for providing such wonderful One school has dominated boys’ ‘Talk revolved Nugent was runner-up in the enjoyed successful seasons and worked opportunities for our players. tournaments: Winchester. In singles and Katie Innes and Martha hard throughout the year. The notable Rob Ody November we saw an all-Winchester around final in the Schools Winchester Fives excellence of Doubles, but not before defending Bedford School champion John Halligan and new play, ecouraging The Bedford 1st IV this year has most Bedford Modern partner Bally Singh made the eventual numbers and regularly consisted of Year 12 boys School winners work hard and the Malvern Logan Jones, Jack Hutchings, Dylan It’s been a solid year for the Fives pairing of Andrew Tudor and Lucas future plans’ Cox and Year 11 Harry Beard, and their team of Bedford Modern School Nelson put the other Winchester pair game has matured and improved with a couple of match wins and under pressure before injury hit. with experience over the course of the strong representation at a number It was no surprise that, at the West of season. It has, however, been a tough of tournaments. Unfortunately, England Schools Championships, year, with defeats by Bedford Modern, we rarely had the numbers to put Winchester walked away with all the Cambridge University and Oundle out a junior team, but the group gold medals, though Monty Evans in the autumn and losses to the RFA, of eight players in Year 11 makes from St. Paul’s did his best to thwart Rugby, Whitgift and Merchant Taylors’ up for the low numbers further BMS’s National U14 champions Albert Song. In the doubles the in the spring. Of the three wins in the down the school. We were pleased Malvern pair performed well against year against the Jesters, Derby Moor with wins for the seniors against the U14 Singles, and, together with Winchester I. In the Colts it was all- and St. Paul’s, the victory against Bedford School and Rugby, only to be her partner Maddie Kent, the girls Winchester in the singles between Tom the latter was one to savour as it is humbled later in the year by Oundle retained the Doubles title. Kidner and Seb Byers, who then paired the first time Bedford have won this and Merchant Taylors’. Currently, the The highlight of the fixture list was up to beat Blundell’s in the doubles. fixture in a number of years. In the Year 11s are the eldest in the squad, the match against the Old Bedford At the National Schools at St. Paul’s Midlands Schools tournament it was but they played well in the Midlands Modernians team. It’s fair to say this there was a new factor: the heavily the junior team who made the most Schools U18 Championship against wasn’t a youthful OBM side, yet they favoured Edinburgh Schools U18 significant progress, with Kamran players two years older. First pair still managed to see us off with their champion Andrew Boyd. The singles Awan and Jamie Sorensen winning Joseph Sumner and Oliver Colbert wiliness (and some subs on standby), went according to expectations, with the Doubles plate. In the Nationals at reached the semi-finals, losing out to losing only two games in the process. Andrew experiencing real pressure St Paul’s Dylan Cox played well in the a very powerful Rugby pairing. We look forward to continuing only in the first game of the final plate, always a tough, exhausting but However, our best results came in our success in the girls’ game and against Albert Song. In the doubles, enjoyable experience. The junior and the Girls’ National Championships. to becoming a greater force as the

however, Harveer Mahajan and Archie & Soane ©Gillman senior singles competitions – the Bedford Modern has just two girls majority of our players move up into Taylor of St Paul’s came through to TOP Three National Champions: Percival, Kidner and Boyd Mellor and Dawes cups – were won by who regularly play Fives, but Katie the Sixth Form. beat both Andrew and partner Ben CENTRE Winchester’s successful squad at Sherborne Leon Williamson and Jack Hutchings. Sumner did extremely well to win Joseph Sumner Jourdan and Winchester I. At Colts and BOTTOM Rugby’s U16 champions Fagan and Harrison Michael Croker

8 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 9 Schools season review

matches were harder going but Derby Moor Juniors Malvern College Wong in the U18 singles final and as Bloxham School played with positivity. In February the After last year’s success, this year was This has been another successful a pair they won the doubles. In the This was very much a year of school hosted the South East Regional about keeping the Club functioning season. Andrew Tudor won the U18 juniors, Ann Doroshenko and Lucie rebuilding for Bloxham Fives Championships. Notable performances while we waited for work to be Colquhoun Trophy for West of England Gonder were doubles runners-up and after the departure of an able and came from Freddie Norris and George completed on enclosing the courts. Schools and he and Lucas Nelson Laura Browne (U14) partnered Cassie committed group of players from Boyle (U18 doubles plate finalists), With John Halligan concentrating on played well at the Winchester Schools Bedford (U18) to the U18 Plate. last year’s Upper Sixth. There Arron Shaw (U16 singles semi-finalist) Rugby Union it was up to Lewis Keates, Doubles before succumbing to injury. Chris Thomas was still a lot of Fives played, and Stephen Marsh and Arron (U16 Bally Singh and Hasan Rehman to At the West of England, they reached with the younger year groups doubles plate finalists.) drive the Club forward. the final, going down to their usual showing special promise. The most In January senior girls Beatrix A lot of Eton Fives was played – and Winchester opponents. Malvern encouraging feature was the fact Crinnion and Phoebe Thornhill enjoyed – at Repton over the winter, Success for Archie in the Scottish Open hosted the Barnes Bridge this year that almost all of the First Form, travelled to the National Ladies but our Rugby Fives suffered and we and it was great to have four players both boys and girls, played the Championships, where they played weren’t the force we once were at the Fettes College entered, with Andrew and Lucas game at some point in the year, outstandingly to reach the semi-finals. Schools Winchester Doubles, the West Club membership now runs to the beating Winchester to win the Plate. and it is to be hoped that many Phoebe also won the singles plate. of England or the Nationals, though top of the school, including girls. At the National Schools they lost will be enthused to keep playing as In April CH girls competed in the John and Bally gave the Winchester In the Edinburgh Schools to the same pair in the semis, while they go on up through the school. National Girls’ Fives Championships at 1st pair a decent game in the quarter- Championships Fettes secured the Andrew reached the singles semis, Simon Batten Marlborough. Aiysha Alli successfully finals at the latter. Colts plate and gave the eventual losing to the eventual winner. Juniors defended the U13 singles title: her We also played fixtures against winners of the Senior Doubles a Alex Nelson, Matt Bruce and Will pace around the court, alertness and Cambridge, Bedford, Rugby, Oundle good match in the semi-final. Brodie also played well at both events. ability to hit the ball deep and even and Malvern and Archie McC competed in the North In April, six girls entered the The successful Malvern contingent off the back wall was remarkable. hosted Sedbergh of England Open and the Nationals Nationals. Amelia Law beat Maggie at the Girls’ Nationals Lisa Thwaites, playing in her first on their way to in Singles and Doubles, reaching tournament, successfully combined the Winchester the quarter-finals and Plate semis with Aiysha to win the U13 doubles. Doubles. respectively, and at the National Girls’ Marlborough College at the Colquhoun Trophy. Stella Saunt-Hills and Caroline Stuart Kirby Championships Catriona S. won The patterns of past years were We also came close at the Girls’ Kloepfer did well in the U16 section: and Lewis Keates bronze in the U16 Singles competition repeated this season with a small National Championships where Ibby they were convincing winners in their kept the Saturday and Scarlet G and India M were but wholehearted group of boys, Lee lost to Rugby in the U16 semis, Bloxham girls learning the game early doubles rounds and runners-up and Sunday runners-up in the U16 Doubles Plate. not matching the top players, but and Kirsten Bell and Rosie Sykes went in the final to a strong pair, while Mary Clubs ticking In the Scottish Open our three good enough to win Plates. Archie down to Bedford in the U14 semis and Ward showed energy and experience over but lack of entrants in the Doubles competition, Wheeler and James Barrows won at final respectively. Bradfield College and court awareness to cap her Fives court time took its Derby Moor 1st pair Archie, Grant and Evan, were drawn Sherborne and James and Rupert Another highlight was James This season saw Fives being played career with the U18 singles plate. toll on attendance. off for their last in the same group. The knock-out Shingleton won at Winchester. Toop’s coaching masterclass. His tips across four years and next season Ed Hatton Bob Dolby match as schoolboys matches saw Archie’s pair win Oscar Waters won the singles Plate helped the juniors win at Bradfield will, hopefully, see competitive Fives through to take the title and Evan’s and Sherborne. The U18s enjoyed being played in every year in the pair struck bronze in the plate. fixtures with Malvern, Winchester, College for the first time in a while. Edinburgh Academy The 1st pair also represented the The inaugural Girls’ House Fives Radley and Sherborne and games The U14s struggled somewhat, often Edinburgh Academy Fives has had school at a number of senior events, competition was a raucous affair against Wessex, the RFA (a thrilling pulled by conflicting commitments, one of its most successful years notably the North West Open, the with a very heavy emphasis on 95-95 draw) and the Old Marlburians, but a keen core played through the in its history. Andrew Boyd, Ben North of England Championships enjoyment and loud support. who gained a narrow victory. winter. The other junior years were Jourdan, Sandy Drennan and John and the Scottish Open at Loretto Peter Worlledge It was great fun to visit Warminster largely competitive: James Gibson Sellar were unbeaten as a 1st IV where Ben reached the final with School at the end of the year and join and Conrad Hudson both entered the in Scotland this year. The 1st pair Mike Kemp of the Caledonian Club. their attempt to get their ancient and Nationals, where they gained valuable came first in the Scottish Schools The highlight of the year occurred Loretto School distinctive Fives wall back in action. experience. Seniors Jack Denison and Championship with the 2nd pair at St. Paul’s during the National Fives players were thin on the ground Marlborough at Warminster School in June Tom Kiggell Will Stevens were also able to hold runners-up. Schools Championships. For the this season although we managed their own, especially on the Bradfield first time in our history our top fixtures against the other Edinburgh courts, and Will also gave a good player, Andrew Boyd, won the Singles schools and the Caledonian Club. Merchiston Castle Edinburgh Schools Doubles, the first account of himself at the Nationals. Championship in convincing fashion. We greatly enjoyed the visit of the School time Merchiston has won this cup Next year, I hope we will be able to Ben Jourdan also won the Singles Jesters and of the Scottish Open. The senior side this year was made up for a number of years. Chris Bell and build on the recently laid foundations. Plate. In the doubles Ben and Andrew We also took part in the Edinburgh of Lewis Baird, Benn Morris, Angus Matthew Currie will join Douglas in Jeremy Ball lost in the semi-final to the eventual Schools’ Championships in the spring. Hinton and William Richardson. They the Colts next year and they promise winners from St. Paul’s. Richie Murby continues to drive the trained with enthusiasm and there to continue their success. Christ’s Hospital We have seen over 30 new players sport forward and standards of play was much competition to be first A talented and enthusiastic group of The Christ’s Hospital squad had experiencing Fives for the first are very much improved, particularly pair. Although they beat Loretto and juniors began their Fives careers this an enjoyable season, slightly more time this year, a highlight being among the Seniors Gary Lemmon, Fettes, they fell short against a strong season and finished unbeaten. They successful for girls than boys. the school’s first ever girls’ match Matt Sinclair, Patrin Maddison and Academy in the Edinburgh Schools. will be pushing for spots in the Colts In the Lent term the boys’ squad versus Fettes. Jonny Cunningham. We look forward The Colts had a successful season, next year, which makes the future of managed good wins against St. The Academy IV at the National Schools Hector Macfarlane to moving up the ladder next season. winning all their games, with Sean Fives here very exciting. Dunstan’s and Eastbourne. Other Roger Whait Yuille and Douglas Tidy winning the Matt Hillier

10 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 11 Schools season review

Bedford Modern and St. Paul’s. much higher than in previous years. Once again we were very pleased to Fixtures against other schools Rugby School had simply moved to a different host the National U25s, and the Oundle have proved to be educational This has been another very level. The best side settled as George boys learnt much from their inclusion once again for our boys, although successful year and with more Romain, Michael Suddaby, Myles in the tournament. Seniors also put in it was very pleasing to see two pupils benefitting from the courts. McKay and Vlad Shirokiy. Wins some thrilling performances at this senior match victories, against The highlight of the year was against Bedford and a strong Oundle year’s Midlands Schools tournament, Bradfield and Malvern. With injuries the development of the two side were the highlights and Romain where captain Jeremy Manger and and choral commitments reducing novice U15 girls who took to developed well; he won his group at Tom Barlow won the senior Doubles the numbers, our performance at the game quickly and were very the Nationals before defeat in the last in a thrilling final against a strong the National Schools was sadly not successful in the Girls’ Nationals. 16. The U15 IV showed promise and pair from Rugby. Manger also took the as strong as it might have been, but Harriet Fagan became U16 singles Arun Mehta and Jacob Drabble won Singles title, beating Barlow in an all- reaching the Plate final was a great champion, and she and her partner, the U15 Midlands Doubles. Unusually

Oundle final. The team greatly enjoyed success for our senior pair. A new Freya Harrison won the doubles. & Soane ©Gillman a pupil who isn’t a regular player, taking part in the National Schools addition to the calendar this year, the Highly competitive in the same Rugby’s U16 Plate winners Noah Martle, won the U15 singles and MTS’s Plate winners at the Nationals tournament at Easter. This year the matches against Old Radleians have competition was Anastasia de we hope he finds the time to play club says goodbye to a strong cohort of been invaluable for honing skills and Clermont who lost the singles final see off a strong Malvern pair. Lottie some Fives over the coming years. Merchant Taylors’ senior players and we wish them well. pushing the standard ever higher. to Harriet. In the seniors Kirsty is ranked in the top 10 women – a The OR match saw the first female OR School Michael Case Finally, the programme of court Martin and Lottie Harbottle made remarkable feat. player, Milly Richards, and the ORs I’ve been immensely impressed renovation has been completed, with the final of the Girls’ U18 Doubles The boys were a little less successful ran out victors in a close match. with the excellent spirit in which Pilgrims’ School a new roof and the slippery floors but didn’t have quite enough to and met a number of opponents who Trevor White all our fixtures were played. This was another excellent pair of coated with (rather bright) paint: it has Equally impressive has been the terms with full courts, new players been marvellous to have both courts dedication and commitment of all and much progress. The autumn in regular play. Looking ahead, the Sedbergh School Sherborne School players. term was primarily one where old club is looking rather thin as the most It was a season spent largely on the This season at Sherborne has seen The 1st IV had some very hands guided new boys, where new enthusiastic and experienced players road for the Sedbergh boys, not many players make great progress. The encouraging performances, techniques were considered and will be leaving, but I hope we can least because the courts underwent junior squad won half their matches particularly in their successful where internal competitions created maintain the momentum they have a deep clean in preparation for the and there is promise for the future defence of the Centenary Cup excellent rivalries. built up over the last couple of years. Barnes Bridge in March. The 1st IV here. In particular Benedict Mercer against Bedford School. With all We played matches and enjoyed Dave Cox experienced plenty of good Fives on has shown himself to be a player with four returning next year they meeting players and coaches from trips to Edinburgh (enjoying a win an eye for the ball and an ability to will look to become a force to be other schools. We entered the Rossall School at Merchiston), Scarborough and play some powerful shots; he was able reckoned with. Every year group Nationals and did well. It has been a good season for Fives at Malvern. The game against Derby to hold his own against older players has been able to field at least one More significantly, Fives at Pilgrims’ Rossall this year, with the courts filled Moor on their newly enclosed courts from various schools. He was ably side and there has been success remains a sport where the good game during the scheduled sessions and was a good addition to the fixture list. supported by a number of others in across all teams. is more important than the won boys taking the opportunity to play It was good to reinforce links with their first year here, most of whom, Rick Bodenham and co. The Nationals provided a match, where enjoyment comes before in their own time as well. We’ve not Rossall, whilst an evening contest at along with Benedict, only started great chance for the boys to victory and behaviour is impeccable. been short of internal competition, Giggleswick, against a ‘Yorkshire Select playing the sport last September. St Dunstan’s College improve their Fives quickly. My thanks go to other Pilgrims’ staff, with both singles and doubles matches IV’, perhaps paves the way for further The senior team had a very healthy It’s been a season of rebuilding at Some conspicuous success came for playing, encouraging and enjoying played on a weekly basis across the action on those courts. fixture list, which included four St. Dunstan’s. Captain Sam Rieb- at junior level, as Jamie Graham Fives, and to our WinColl coach, Giles year groups. The girls enjoyed their biggest matches against adult sides. Edward Smith played with determination won the U14 Plate competition. In Munn, without whom we would play It looks as if we have a promising competition at home, as we hosted Pyman, Alastair Findlay and Will and vigour; his enthusiasm was the Colts, Sarthak Garella played Fives less well, enjoy Fives less and U12/U13 team for next year, as the the Ladies’ Winchester Fives Shardlow were more than capable of excellent and he promoted all that excellently to make it through to beat no one. enthusiasm and skill shown by our Championships. This proved a big coping with such a challenge and had was good about the game. the quarter-finals of the singles Geoffrey Hammond newest players has been encouraging. boost: our girls are on the way up, some very competitive games. These We had our usual fixtures but and Ethan Taberham and his The boys played our regular fixtures as exemplified by an encouraging three played in almost every match the revived match against the ODs doubles partner, Joe Savage, took Radley College against Sedbergh, and home and away performance at the Girls’ Nationals. and although few were won, some was a real highlight. victory in the U18 Doubles Plate. Fives at Radley has flourished this matches with Oswestry has been a Jonathan Lidiard were lost by just a handful of points. At U15 level, we managed to Simon Hardman year, with last year’s senior players welcome addition. We again made A highlight of the season was the bring new blood into the squad continuing to grow in maturity and the long journey to St Paul’s for the revived match against the old boys – and they can create a vibrant experience. Captain CAJ Rothbarth Nationals. Although it is always a ‘The Pilgrims’. It was a highly enjoyable senior squad next year. It was Oundle School has led from the front, organising a challenge for our boys, they enjoyed and close contest, with the old boys at U14 and U13 level that we saw Members of the Oundle School Fives new inter-social competition, which the event and the atmosphere as ever. taking victory by just eight points. promise: both age groups showed Club have had an excellent year. Senior proved to be a tremendous success. There is always a degree of sadness A few of them had to dust off their real interest, which bodes well. The players trained hard throughout the Some very high-quality Fives was on at saying goodbye to the 1st team at gloves after 15 years, but we hope they U13s had a good Nationals in both winter and performed strongly in pre- display, even from inexperienced the end of the year, and the player will be back next year. Singles and Doubles. Finally at season matches against Cambridge boys, and a wonderful atmosphere of that will be missed the most is captain We say goodbye to our U6th leavers, U12s the club is overflowing with University, Rugby and Bedford. During amiable competitiveness permeated Jonathan Lee. Having played Fives Alastair and Edward, but hope they a strong number of boys and girls the Easter, the 1st IV coped manfully the courts. The traditional Shell since his juniors, he’s been an excellent will continue to play in the future and I have great hopes for them. with a challenging list of fixtures Singles Tournament also produced ambassador for the sport. wherever life may take them. Rick Bodenham against Merchant Taylors’, Derby Moor, some great games, the standard of play Lee Hodgetts Sedbergh’s players at the Girls’ Nationals Nick Scorer

12 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 13 Schools season review Sedbergh

Tonbridge School St. Paul’s School Tuesdays at Tonbridge in the Lent term The History of Fives The season started at the West of sees all seven Fives courts in use for England Schools, where Monty the leagues: seven leagues each with Evans managed to find reserves of seven to 12 players. The bottom two at Sedbergh School energy and calm focus to sweep play first and the winner stays on to past Winchester’s Kullavanijaya in challenge the next one up. The next David Barnes looks at Fives at the Cumbrian school the U18 semi-final, but he couldn’t opponent arrives and on it goes until find the same form for the final. the winner of the last game tops his Sedbergh has always taken sport a back wall. It was certainly popular In the Senior Doubles Taylor and league and moves up a league for the seriously, yet it took a while for the with its users since play was possible Mahajan narrowly lost a fantastic next week. This allows top juniors to Whitgift’s unbeaten Colts side school to decide which variety of come rain or snow, but the only semi-final against Winchester. take on the less good seniors who are Fives to play. In the 1880s, Fives possible hint of its shape comes from During the Spring Term, we rarely willing to give in easily. Whitgift School challenges and ties were played within the fact that CW Gooch, an Old played 26 fixtures, with over 60 This year was pleasing at the Nationals An unbeaten Colts and some great and between houses, and in 1880 there Blundellian cricketer and assistant players representing the school: with four plate finalists: Teddy Toalster individual successes in both the Colts was a challenge match between master at Sedbergh, was the moving the last to be coached by Peter and Seb Piggott lost on the finals of the and U18 teams make this a vintage housemasters Mr Wilson and Mr Hutt, force behind its construction. King. Peter was Master in Charge U16 and U14 B plates while Will Hanley year. Two outstanding players, and two schoolboys, C Toppin and RA Two of the Blundell’s three-walled from 1993 to 2010, and then and Chris Hughes won the U16 doubles Cameron Low and Sarath Prakash, Shepherd. Surprisingly, the result is courts built in 1885 during his time at coached the U14s until 2016. As plate and Seb Piggott and Charlie were the secret behind our Colts’ not recorded, nor the court on which the Devon school had since acquired was fitting in his last year, the Crooke won the U14 doubles plate. success, but Hajane Anbukumar the match was played. a back wall and were probably closer U14s were outstanding and were Ian Jackson developed strongly and Reece Etwaroo Soon, school singles competitions to the Rugby pattern than the Eton undefeated in 11 fixtures was the best number four we’ve had were arranged for seniors and juniors, – despite the ledge round the walls. The Junior Colts were keen to in years. Winning the Regional U16 and HG Hart, headmaster from 1880, learn and determined to improve. singles and doubles even without our gave a Challenge Cup, won in 1882 by Winchester courts in the 1920s The Colts had a good season, best two showed our depth of talent. School House. Soon Old Sedberghians Finally, in 1922, two new courts were losing only once, versus Whitgift. The U18s were a little less successful, were playing competitive Fives, too: in built “on the Winchester pattern”. Julius Davies picked up the Most but James Mabbutt almost made it to 1896 AG Wilkins won the Fives The Sedberghian reported in its Improved Junior award – a new the National quarter-finals and Jussi Challenge Cup at Owen’s College, March 1923 editorial: “An King Cup, given by Old Paulines to Grut won the B Plate. Mabbutt did, Manchester. innovation has been made in the mark Peter’s retirement. however, win the Regionals singles and But the issue of which courts were shape of a Fives match between the ABOVE An unidentified Fives At the National Schools the doubles with Jussi. Talha Aziz won the right ones for Sedbergh persisted. Staff and the School. The Staff won by player poses on the Evans House Championships, we very nearly the Regional U18 Plate, so almost a We have been unable to establish seven games to two. This is another court in the early 1920s won both the U14 singles and the Winners of the U16 Plate with clean sweep of available silverware! whether the covered court built in step in the direction started by the doubles. Teddy Monro-Davies lost Deputy President David Bawtree Nick Morgan 1903, and reserved for the use of New Fives Courts and the House Cups. Fives courts, were built in 1925. This the singles final by an agonisingly masters and members of Mr. In a few years we shall have Fives was the time when Fives was waking small margin. In the doubles Lemarchand’s house, had a buttress or Colours and School matches.” up nationally: the RFA was founded in final Teddy, and his partner Jack Winchester College BELOW Cambridge University 1927 and the circulation of approved Griffiths, again lost in the deciding Fives at Winchester has never been 1958 - JNH Smith (back right) Incomplete records court dimensions and rules was game after a titanic battle. stronger. The club has been blessed and BWJG Wilson (to his right) The four present covered Winchester approved in 1930. In the Colts, Cheveley was with some very talented and It is hard, however, to establish how runner-up in the singles and enthusiastic boys who have been a long the various house courts lasted at played well against the top seed. pleasure to coach. Our U17 captain, Sedbergh alongside the school ones. In the Open tournament, Mahajan Albert Song won three trophies, two Sedgwick, School, Hart and Evans and Taylor played clinical doubles with the help of Pete Kullavanijaya, Houses certainly invested some energy to beat Edinburgh Academy in the taking the captain’s total to six and and money in improving their courts semis and Winchester in the final. making him the most successful in the early 1920s, but there is no Sam Roberts schoolboy in the club’s history. All-Winchester final in the Schools mention in The Sedberghian of their Albert, however, was not the most Winchester Fives Doubles competition eventual passing. The one at Evans successful player of the club this House is suspected to be the last one year. That accolade went to Tom fought three-set final. standing in 2016. Kidner, who won all four Colts In all, Wykehamists won nine of 11 It is difficult, also, to determine the trophies, pairing up with Seb Byers trophies, six runners-up medals and identities of the masters-in-charge in and the U15 Alex Poyntz in the two were involved in all 11 finals, making the early days. Masters at Sedbergh doubles competitions. Meanwhile it our most successful season ever! were certainly involved in umpiring in the U14s Dominic Percival came I’d like to thank my fellow coaches inter-house matches, and one name from 8-0 down in the final set to at Winchester as well as a growing mentioned is GH Todd, who retired in win the National Schools singles group of Old Wykehamists and the 1929. The Sedberghian wrote in tribute before pairing up with Seb Fraser to Wessex Fives club. that he was “a prime mover in all the Open Doubles champions from St. Paul’s win the doubles in another closely Giles Munn improvements and additions to our Fives-courts” and Todd himself had >>

14 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 15 Sedbergh

written in his 1918 tribute to another ‘The school had Strong brotherhood master, Brian ‘Puggy’ Harrison, that he Sedberghians began to make a mark in had been his Fives partner for 15 years. a long way to go National competitions during the Soon, Sedberghians were making 1950s, as brothers, JNH and D Smith, their mark at University. AMcA before they could emerged as top-class singles players. In Robertson and JA Steven were in the master doubles’ 1955, D Smith won the Public Schools’ Fives VIII at Glasgow as early as 1925, Singles Championship at Whitgift. JNH while GA Bell played for Cambridge in Smith, who had left Sedbergh the the 1927 and 1929 Varsity Matches. The 1938. In 1939, The Sedberghian previous autumn, won the 1955 first time Sedbergh took on a reported: “The two old courts near Scottish Open and went on to win the University was in a Rugby Fives match Lupton House have been pulled down North of England Open in 1956 and at Leeds in 1930, an encounter which and are being rebuilt on more modern 1958. In 1959 he became the first (and became a regular fixture despite the lines.” The work was completed by so far only) Sedberghian to win the differing codes. November, costing £550. National Singles title. In the meantime, Apart from matches versus Leeds, his brother had repeated his Public Remoteness a barrier where three Rugby Fives courts had Schools triumph in 1956. You would In the 1930s, a period when Rugby been built in 1930, the occasional have thought that between them they Fives was expanding in schools, encounter with the Common Room might have won a Doubles title, but it Sedbergh’s remote location inevitably was the only opportunity to play adult wasn’t to be. meant that almost all of its Fives was opposition. When the Masters were Despite the achievements of played within the School. The Senior played in 1940, the School lost but gave Sedberghians in the later 1950s, the and Junior knock-out doubles a good account of themselves. school had a long way to go before they CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT competitions were keenly fought each could master Rugby Fives Doubles, and the other regular school opponents The policy of training the top players Headmaster Chris Hirst, a former Cambridge year, with Sedgwick winning the Senior Post-war revival this is where Dick Lyon’s coaching were Rossall, with their open-backed for Rugby Fives meant that a wider captain of Fives, thanking John Guthrie for his trophy every year between 1932 and The Senior Fives competition was came in. Winchester-style courts. range of teams featured on Sedbergh’s generosity in 2008; Courts enclosed in 2007- revived only in 1948, but The “Mr. Lyon is patiently teaching us the The concentration on Rugby Fives fixture list in the 1970s: Merchiston 08; Dave Fox (with Dave Hebden) serving to CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT Sedberghian said in 1949: “Interest in rudiments of Rugby Fives,” read one brought success for Sedberghians at Castle, Durham School and the John Minta (with Hamish Buchanan) 2012 Dick Lyon (tallest of the three) the game is spreading, and Houses are captain’s’ report. It was a slow process, University. SP Berry played for winning Manchester YMCA all provided good discussing matters with Tom Wood and beginning to take considerable trouble as there were few suitable schools to Cambridge sides in 1969,1970 and 1972, opposition. The middle of the decade Winchester Fives Doubles champion. Chris Heron 1970; Laurence Catlow at St. Paul’s in 2009, the year of his retirement; over the training of their Fives teams.” play against, Giggleswick being the while AF Rees represented Oxford in saw the rise of RN Barr, who went He is still playing to a high standard 30 Ed Hickey and James Brown (right), The Junior competition was revived in only relatively reachable one. Leeds 1971. Such was the desire for success at increasingly far in the National Schools years later and co-founded the National Schools finalists 1993 1950 after an interval of eight years. University were useful opponents, but Rugby Fives at Sedbergh that it led to Singles, reaching the semi-final in 1975 Executioners Rugby Fives Club with AG the unusual practice of playing a let on and the final in 1976. He and DHW Wilson. The name was derived from the buttress when visiting sides were Mount also got to the Doubles semi- Exeter University, which Fox attended. unused to it. It was well-meant, but it finals in 1975. Barr and his fellow Old Despite some mutterings from the looked like a vote of no confidence in Sedberghian JJ Rogers went on to play RFA, it stuck. Winchester Fives. Fortunately, Fives at Oxford and were both selected Winchester Fives was still played for the Varsity Matches in 1978, 1979 Varsity success internally in House matches and other and 1980, with Rogers staying on for a 1986/87 was the year when Sedbergh’s competitions. fourth half-blue in 1981. name was again inscribed on the The last five years of RJ Lyon’s long National Schools’ Singles trophy. MA A focus on Rugby stint as master-in-charge continued to Mellor had reached the National Colts’ 1970 saw visits from Durham produce good players. Singles semi-finals in 1985 and the University, the White Rose Club from RD Middleton won the Senior Singles fourth round of the 1986 Senior Halifax and the UCS Old Boys. The plate at the National Schools in 1982. Singles, but nobody expected him to School team that year was the best for An impressive player, he was selected perform quite as well as he did in the several years, but none of them came for Oxford from 1985-87, while his 1987 Singles, where he lost only 12 to the Nationals. The next year, three Sedbergh contemporary, WH Stoddart, points in five matches. Mellor sadly of the best players were back, and the was in the Cambridge side for the first made no further mark upon the game, team was undefeated in all matches, two of those years. DA Fox, Sedbergh but another Sedberghian, JW Gribble, beating not only the RFA and the UCS captain in 1984, was later to become a who was captain of Fives the next year, Old Boys, but also the Masters. The top stalwart of the Rugby Fives scene and a certainly did at Cambridge. He hit the Sedbergh pair (AWA Outhwaite and ground running in 1990, playing good MTD Budge) won the North Of England singles and top-pair doubles in a Schools’ Doubles at Durham School ‘A wider range of narrow victory for the Light Blues, that year, and four players went to repeated the act in 1991 and then, as Whitgift , where Outhwaite and FJM teams featured on captain in 1992, led the last Cambridge Carr reached the Doubles semi-final, Sedbergh’s fixture side to win the Varsity match for a losing narrowly to Merchant Taylors’, decade. He also had a hand in winning the top seeds. list in the 1970s’ the British Universities Doubles title >>

16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 17 Sedbergh Club reports

RFA Club Report Hamish Buchanan reports on the RFA's Club matches in the 2015–16 season

With 19 wins and Five Durham two draws from 26 captains out of eight matches played, the Club has had a successful year. ‘2007 saw the four Close matches courts enclosed, were a recurring theme, with a 95- with heaters 95 tie at installed’ Marlborough, a two-point win at both UCS and Alleyn Old Boys and a seven point loss against the Old CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Ben Lawry and Jonathan Lidiard with the many top players, thus became an ever Schools Championships. These Paulines. In the Winchester VIII fixture Barnes Bridge plate in 2013 at Malvern; more important part of the fixture list achievements were important given the score was 266-257, a loss with a Sedbergh Girls at the Ladies Winchester Fives if Sedbergh were to keep up its the number of relatively fallow years 49.1% share of the points! championships 2016; Taylor Maguire 2015 challenge for National Schools after the heady days of the 1990s. Tonbridge was again the venue for honours. 1996 proved that this was the Fittingly, Laurence Catlow bowed out Tony Hamilton’s team to push the age case, when Sedbergh’s top pair, at the end of the season to hand on the boundary, beating last year’s effort by RFA CLUB RESULTS 2015-16 in 1991 with his partner PD d’Ancona. J Lofthouse and I McKerrow, won the Fives to his former pupil Jonathan an aggregate four years (this may Opposition Manager Other players Result Fives continued to flourish under National Schools Doubles, defeating Lidiard. Since 1964, there had only seem highly likely, but the team has Alleyn’s A. Hanton A.Bowden, T.Hebblethwaite, R.Sulkin Win the next master-in-charge, LW Catlow. Bradfield in the final. been two men in charge of Fives at changed) and an average of 66. Alleyn Old Boys R.Perry B.Brookes, T.Hebblethwaite, E.Ronan Win In 1990, J Lamb and F Stoddart were Sedbergh, and in their very different There may have been a case of too Bedford J.Denham P.Atkinson, S.Endersby, H.French Win reported to be the best first pair for Court enclosure ways they had served the game and many captains on court in Durham Blundell’s M & M Whitehead* C.Brook, D.Hill, A.Rew, A.Steel Win some time, with Lamb making it to the In the early to mid-1990s the courts at the School magnificently. when James Tilston’s team of alumni Cambridge A.Pringle* A.George, R.Mathieu, A.Meek, D.Tristao Win semi-final of the Schools Singles. Sedbergh seemed increasingly prone included Peter Hanton and Julian Cambridge B. Dolby* J.Abecassis, L.Keates, S.Kirby, B.Singh Loss Present day promise S Lewis and J Brown, the top Sedbergh to sweating, and the younger players Aquilina, and the home side fielded Deep West Club S.Watson* D.Hill, K.Kennerley, B.Hitchings, J.Webber Win pair, reached the final of the National suffered from a lack of suitable school In the last six years, Lidiard has already Dave Butler and Sam Russell, making Durham J.Tilston J.Aquilina, P.Hanton, T.Wakelam Win Winchester Doubles (at Sedbergh) and matches to give them experience. made his mark. He has brought good it the five most recent Durham Eastbourne T.Hamilton N.Arnott, M.Hole, P.Ross Win the final of the National Schools. In 2007, a generous gift from John players to the Schools Winchester Fives captains present. It appears that three In 1993, it was Sedbergh’s turn to win Guthrie saw the four Sedbergh courts Doubles and to the National Schools, is better than two as the visitors edged Executioners E.Ronan* A.Bowden, H.Buchanan, E.Carr, T.Hebblethwaite Win the National Schools Doubles title – for enclosed, with heaters installed in an and Sedbergh girls have entered their to a narrow win. Jesters: Strawson D.Warner Revolving cast of many. Tie the first time in the school’s history – effort to reduce the sweating. This has Nationals and the Ladies Winchester The President’s Cup was organised in Jesters W.Ellison J.Aquilina, H.Buchanan, R.Perry Win when Brown and J Lancaster confirmed not been entirely successful, alas, as Fives event. The senior girls are now in almost bombproof fashion by Gareth Malvern VI H.Buchanan R.Christie, S.Kirby, S.Roberts, S.Zhang Win their quality and resilience. They had the interruptions to play in the new National Women’s Rankings. Price, with great pairings, delivering Marlborough T.Maconie* Various Tie also played beautifully to reach the subsequent competitions have shown. In 2015, Taylor McGuire won the highly competitive Fives. Old Paulines M.Bate* J.Bristow, A.George, T.Maconie, C.Waller Loss National Winchester Doubles final No doubt partly in response to the National Schools U14 Boys’ Singles The Cup was won in an epic final (16- Old Tonbridgians A.George Various Win three weeks earlier at Malvern. The enclosure of the courts, the numbers title, a fine achievement for a player 14,14-16,15-6) by Dan Grant, showing a Old Whitgiftians H.Buchanan A.Bowden, E.Carr, B.Hanton Win next year, JM Edington became the of Sedberghians playing Fives brought up on a Winchester court. rare determination on home courts, Oundle A.Smith Various Loss third Sedberghian to win the National increased in 2008. No school matches Fives at Sedbergh is in good hands. and Mark Kiteley, who achieved an Schools Singles title, and had he not were lost to the weather, and there This coming season sees the almost lifelong ambition in winning, St Dunstan’s T.Hamilton N.Arnott, J.Higgins, G.Norman Win sustained a serious bruise in doing so, were no periods when practice was Winchester National Doubles return to as he's been playing in the tournament Sherborne A.Passey B.Atkinson, B.Boag, B.Gunyon, D.Shepherd Win he and his partner T Barraclough impossible due to sweating courts. the school, which will give since before Dan was born. Tonbridge T.Hamilton B.Atkinson, E.Clarke, P.Ross Win would have had a chance of winning More players came to persevere with Sedberghians a chance to play against Next season I hope to have even UCS Old Boys J.Ensor P.Chopra, K.Kantoria, A.Sangani Win the Doubles final against Sherborne. the game, and the fixture with Rossall or watch top players. For all schools more matches played. With more Fives Winchester W.Ellison N.Geere, G.Munn, A.Passey Win By now, the only ‘local’ school was reinstated after many years. planning a Fives tour, Sedbergh is a comes more fun, more friends made, Winchester VIII D.Tristao O.Arnold, H.Buchanan, C.Burrows, opponents for Sedbergh were In 2008/09, A Elletson and M leading contender by virtue of the more food consumed and perhaps T.Dean, A.George, T.Parker, S.Roberts Loss Giggleswick and Merchiston Castle Pimlott won the Winchester Fives quality of its Fives and its hospitality. more beer drunk. There is a new West of England E.Carr A.George, S.Lewis, R.Sulkin Loss and Loretto of Edinburgh, Durham Northern Doubles, the first schoolboy weekend tour planned of the White Rose Club R.Christie L.Keates, S.Kirby, L.Taylor Loss School having given up the game in pair to do so; Elletson went on to win A full version of this history is to be found at: Edinburgh schools in February, so sign * denotes non-playing manager 1993. The visiting clubs, containing the Singles plate at the National http://bit.ly/2bfJz1b up early to avoid disappointment.

18 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 19 Club reports 2015-16

Exeter Fives Club On the Saturday we trekked to Once again the Exeter Fives Club has Marlborough where we played been very busy, with the Wednesday against the local team, with Jim sessions regularly bringing in 10 Hughes swapping over to give the Around the clubs in 2015-16 people, both men and women. home side a close-run victory. All In March we held our annual tour in all a very good tour – we are all The past season, as reported by the many Fives clubs around the country to Winchester and Marlborough. We looking forward to next year! travelled to Winchester on the Friday We are the leading club in the against Sam Russell. Theo and Ollie a resilient bunch, so much enjoyable night and played against the Wessex country for mixed Fives: during then reached the final of the doubles. Eton Fives was played at Repton during Club, where Alexandra Steel and some sessions, more women than Bristol now sits first in the chasing our enforced absence from our courts Alex Rew retained their undefeated The Exeter Fives Club at Winchester men attend! We welcome all on pack behind Cambridge! and visits were made to tournaments title to the annoyance of the Wessex Wednesdays at Blundell’s courts at Next year Ollie will be taking over whenever possible. Club, who were desperate to de- meal. Speeches were given by Harry 6pm. Feel free to join us at our club as captain, though Theo will still be Lawrence Taylor and Craig Baxter throne them. Once enough Fives was Akerman and Tim Lewis, who awarded house, The Butterleigh Inn, for a around as he studies for a Masters. kept up club traditions by winning the played we departed to our hotel to Jim Hughes and Alex Rew their Exeter social drink afterwards. Theo Parker Second Plate at the Yorkshire Doubles; get ready for our traditional Indian Colours (in the form of a blazer). Alex Rew Lewis Keates won the Mate’s Plate with 33° on court and still they play at Alleyn's! Derby Moor Will Ellison; Rob Whitehorn took both This year was memorable for the fact the Singles and the Doubles Plates Durham University Nevertheless, there were enough end-of-season tournament. So, we're Alleyn Old Boys that we finally managed to realise our at the U25s; Lewis and Bally Singh In August 2015, the future of the willing bodies every Wednesday considering adopting a new club Another solid year at Alleyn’s: dream of enclosing the courts. It was secured the U18 Doubles Plate at the Durham Fives seemed bleak, with evening. Among the most regular were motto for next season (with apologies numbers are increasing and the frustrating to see a supposed six-week Midlands Schools Championships, and just David Butler, Tom McCahon and Alex and Archie Wall, Simon Stokes, to Mars): ‘Work less, and play.’ average age is dropping, which job take eight months from the first then Lewis capped a wonderful year captain Sam Russell left to fly the flag. Malcolm Borthwick, Tony Julius, Andy Pringle must surely be a good sign. A shovelful of earth to the fitting of the by winning the Derby Moor Invitation The team received a boost when Richard Dyke, Jon Peterson and Tom handful of matches were played, water fountain, but we got back in the Doubles with Hamish Buchanan. Tom Wakelam and Adam Wordley Webster, and Old Wykehamists Ben Jesters Club all were good fun with some courts the moment the render dried Surely the most deserved success rekindled their love of the sport. Hale and Seb Woollard. We've had another successful season competitive Fives. We reached the on the new walls! Meanwhile it felt a was Stuart Kirby reaching his second This, combined with a successful Dick Warner and Guy Matthews on the Jesters front, with the usual Plate final in the Owers Trophy bit like the pioneering days of 2003-04 successive Doubles final in the Vintage recruitment campaign, meant Durham were among the club’s most decorated Jesterly spirit thrown in to some with ‘prodigal son’ Nick Geere when we played in roofless courts with Championships, this year with Neil had quantity, if not quality, on hand. players this year. Guy again employed competitive and well fought matches returning from the Deep West halogen lights strung from beams and Roberts. We owe Stuart immeasurably A narrow loss to Old Durham his tactic of ensuring a good around the country. to partner Ed Carr and Rocco knees bleeding from contact with the for his work on our courts enclosure. proved perfect preparation for the President’s Cup partner by barely In the Strawson match, an early start Sulkin. They won both their group dilapidated concrete floor. But we are Bob Dolby BUSF tournament, where the eight- playing in the run-up to the event – allowed the teams – Jesters and the matches in the Plate by one point, strong team won both Plates. Buoyed this year he partnered Tom Dean to RFA – to contest a superb match and truly taking it to the wire. by this, 18 entered the National win the Love Mug. Meanwhile, Dick arrive first at the dinner to enjoy the We play all year round on Tuesday Cambridge University Championships qualifier on home showed his fighting qualities, claiming hospitality at Queen’s. In a remarkable evenings from 2 degrees C. in Once again CURFC’s ‘superstars’ had courts. David Butler took victory and the Vintage Singles Plate, coming back turn of events, and thanks to Dick January to 33° in July. Come and a stellar season. Ed Kay, Ben Beltrami then made the quarter-final in the from 13-5 down to win 16-15. Warner’s considered team selection, join us. and Matt Shaw took home a variety finals. Another Plate was added at the Club stalwarts Andy Pringle and the match was tied. The Cambridge Hamish Buchanan of titles including the Universities U25s. The North of England Open also Alex Steel carried the club’s colours in weekend was a wonderful addition and U25s singles and doubles. proved a success, where Christian national competitions. The pair fell to the fixture list in November on They also helped the men’s 1st VIII Blackaby won the Plate. just short of retaining their Winchester the new courts. We look forward to it Bristol University to a convincing victory in the Pol Practice sessions regularly featured Fives mixed doubles title, losing in the becoming a regular season highlight. Bristol University Fives has had Roger Varsity Match. The 2nd IV’s Ladies IV with the Varsity champagne 10 or more players and development final. Alex also finished as runner-up The tour to Edinburgh continues another successful year and is on the encounter with the Oxford Beavers sessions saw more take up the game. in the Ladies National Rugby Fives its great success, expertly guided rise. Over the course of the year a was arguably the least predictable Sasha Haco, they led the team to a At the end-of-season Palatinate Doubles with Maddy Raynor, ending by the Akermans. 25 fixtures over number of students have come along match of the day and it was great to 147-83 victory. All four are staying Dinner, Dave and Sam received awards the season third in the new rankings. three days, played by an enthusiastic, to play, and everyone is welcome at no see our players show strength as they next year and will only improve. from Team Durham, and the feeling Andy can look back on this as the but increasingly knackered touring charge! claimed the win. They challenge any school or club was the future wasn’t so bleak after all. season he claimed his first regional party of more than 30 players, with With newcomer Schools champion The most pleasing development ladies’ team to take them on! Sam Russell title (the South East Doubles, with Ed lunches, drinks and dinners – what an Tom Watkinson and Inigo Ackland this year has been the arrival of a The only blemish of the year was Hatton) and his first national title (the incredible way to promote our sport staying on an extra year, plus the top strong ladies’ team. They went from a first defeat for several years by the Executioners Veterans Doubles, with John Minta.) He and encourage future generations! pair of Theo Parker and Ollie Arnold, beginners to threatening the top 10 Past but all enjoyed a very convivial Oscar Wilde famously said that work is also retained the Executioners Singles At the start of the year, James Tilston Bristol had a strong contingent for the of the National Women’s rankings. dinner. One player joining the Past the curse of the drinking classes. This ladder, taking top spot from Ben Hale a joined the Jesters Committee to help BUSF championships, though sadly Captain Cassi Henderson played this year, and one we'd like to thank, year it’s been the curse of the Fives- week before the end of the season. out with the Rugby Fives world. Please Guy Davies and David George-Carey the game of the Varsity match, and is Jacob Brubert, who played in seven playing classes, too. All too often, our Sadly, we have to record some do get in touch with either of us if had to withdraw at the last minute. Georgina Shepherd fought to victory Varsity Matches and captained us to weekly email would go out, only for disappointments this season – being you would like to play or volunteer to Ollie had a great win against second despite a shoulder injury. Ably our record victory last year. at least one of our number to say they unable to raise a team for the Club organise a fixture – we rely on the RFA seed David Butler to make the semi- supported by Lottie Simpson and James Pinder were chained to their desk and would Championship, not having more members to keep the Jesters active. finals, and Tom won a three-game epic miss that evening at St Paul’s. club matches and failing to play an Charlie Brooks

20 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 21 Club reports 2015-16

Malvern Town Old Paulines A mix of schoolboys and girls, leavers Marlborough Town The Old Pauline RFC continues to be and new recruits congregate on Fives Club extremely active, with a pleasingly Monday evenings for friendly Fives The club has enjoyed an excellent high number of young members. The and a compulsory pint. The few year, with a good attendance three club runs two internal tournaments fixtures we had were fiercely contested sessions a week, and both codes each year: the Cunis Cup, a and there will hopefully be a few more played. Tom Kiggell and Jim Hughes handicapped singles tournament, and next season with the introduction of remain our star players, however, our own President’s Cup. The round- some more Jesters games. the rest of us battle on, with a robin style singles tournament was Highlights for the season were definite, if imperceptible, rise in Dave Butler in action against Richie Murby won by Julian Aquilina by just four An Old Tonbridgian IV watching the top Malvern schoolboy standards evident over the last year. Marlborough Town on court points from Theo Parker. The doubles pair of Andrew Tudor and Lucas Nelson We held our usual competitions Old Bradfieldians was won by Jack Malde and James Old Tonbridgians take the Winchester Fives Doubles within the club over the year. These taking part in both the Vintage and Being a largely peripatetic club we Tilston who won a close game against Fives at Tonbridge has gone well and plate when the competition was held included a doubles competition with the Veterans tournament. had just the one fixture this year, Jonny Baker and Henry Jefferies. although not stars on the performance at our own courts, and Stephen Coffey two teams (led by Tom and Jim), During the year one of our leading against the Jesters at Bradfield The 2012 Leavers – Parker, Thomas tables we are regular players with a few and Shinan Zhang making the semi- and the Hughes Cup Rugby Singles lights, Tim Brown, took several pairs College. This was a close fixture; and Russell – did well to make the wins to celebrate. finals of the Winchester Fives Mixed competition. Whilst the number of of gloves and a ball with him to however, home advantage gave final of the new-style Owers Trophy It's been pleasing to welcome Doubles tournament at Bradfield. entries for the latter was slightly Kenya and introduced the game to the Old Bradfieldians the edge to but weren't able to beat our 1st team Rupert Mathieu – a current parent Congratulations must go to Shinan down on the previous year, the a number of his local friends, using narrowly win the match. of Aquilina, Beltrami and Tristao. and old boy. Also Robert Harrison and for reaching number five in the newly quality of the field was every bit as an old squash court. This autumn he Our greatest successes came The Club ended the year as runners- Alfred Ainsworth, both recent leavers introduced Women’s Rankings. strong. The winner, Harvey Bishop, is taking more players out to play a the farther away from Bradfield up in the Wood Cup for the second providing a much needed youthful Stephen Coffey produced an excellent display in Marlborough v. Kenya match. we got. Our star player of the consecutive year – the aim for 2017 will enthusiasm – and adding some strong the final, against a marvellously As a club you could say we lack any moment, Dave Butler, journeyed be to go one better. shots to our games. Old Bedford talented runner-up... semblance of leadership, direction, to Giggleswick to win the Yorkshire For many, Peter King has been ever Robert and I appeared at a Modernians The annual dinner was a great focus or ambition. And I think this is Doubles with Dan Tristao, and to present in St Paul’s Fives, overseeing friendly Winchester Doubles event The handful of usual suspects ensured success, and one of the highlights of why it works. Loretto to win the Scottish Singles many who've gone on to higher things. in Malvern, managing to enjoy the that club nights continued to run on the year for many of our players was Richard Clark title. Dave also partnered Ollie To mark Peter’s retirement the Club plate competition. Martin Wilkinson a regular basis between September Arnold in the South West Doubles held a dinner bringing together OPs remains our star with his fifth and May. Ongoing problems with the at Blundell’s, coming runner-up. Jez spanning 50 years. We presented Peter consecutive win in the Masters court lights meant that some fixtures complicated round robin, which led Sinton was carried to victory in the with a few bottles as well donating the Doubles, this time with David Hebden. could not be played; however, the into a knock-out finale where Nick Scottish Doubles by a Fettes sixth ‘King Cup’ to be presented to the most Local games against Eastbourne, school has indicated that new fittings Cumberlege and his Blundell’s partner former, but only after the points- improved junior player. Retirement Whitgift and the school took place. will be installed in the near future. emerged as the winners. It was a really difference vagaries put them ahead from the OP Fives committee is As always, players who may be in the One match that did take place was a fun event and how great it is to see of Adam George and partner, who thankfully not on the cards! Tonbridge area are most welcome. hard fought affair against the talented such good support for Fives within the beat them in the group. Tom Dean Neil Arnott and energetic school team. Eventual school. The day was rounded off with Having failed to enter a III for victory by the OBMs meant little in tea in the Beal Centre, followed by the the new-style Owers Trophy we're that the real pleasure was the prospect presentation. determined to take part this year. Old Whitgiftians of the boys developing into formidable It has been a busy season in Jez Sinton The formula for another enjoyable players during their final two years at competition Fives, with particular Old Whitgiftian season: nine school. The OBMs also provided the success for OBs Alexandra Steel and matches, a South West tour, one 40th RFA team that defeated Bedford School Maddy Raynor, who are both seeded Old Merchant Taylors’ birthday Fives celebration, a School in January. As ever, club members in the top four of the new Women’s The weekly OMT Fives sessions run v.OWs mix-and-match tournament, entered the Veterans and Vintage Rankings. Both participated valiantly throughout the year on Wednesday a team entered in the Owers Trophy tournaments, whilst Mark Kiteley in the Winchester Mixed Doubles, nights at Merchant Taylors’ School. The plus lots of enthusiastic members! became probably the oldest player to with Maddy and Alex Rew finishing informal club is attended by a regular, Competitive matches with RFA, win the coveted President’s Cup at the third and Alexandra and Andy Pringle warm and welcoming selection of Whitgift Schoolboys, Christ’s umpteenth time of trying. making the final! Also we are proud OMTs and non-OMTs of varying ages, Hospital, Old Tonbridgians, the Sadly, Jerry Cooper died in Pringle and Steel at the Mixed Winchester that Alexandra is the first lady to enter all with a common passion for the Jesters, plus the OWs’ annual foray OWs v. School – a game for all ages December. Jerry had been secretary the National (Men’s) Doubles rankings. game, and courtesy for each other to the South West for games at of the OBM Fives Club for more than Old Blundellians Although the participation of Old mixed in with some competitive Sherborne, Tiverton and Clifton OW and Fives-playing friends 30 years as well as being a former The Fives season started back in Blundellians had increased this year banter. Singles, doubles and trebles resulted in four wins and five losses. gathered to celebrate the Hon Sec’s RFA President and master in charge September with the annual Reichwald we would like to encourage more are all played and a Whatsapp group is The tour was well attended, including 0.4 century with a day of Fives, food of Fives at Bedford School where Trophy. It was a very successful day to play in competitions, where they used to advise attendance. We gladly tour virgin Nick Morgan, master and drink. Massing from across the he produced a number of National featuring a good turn-out of OBs of can showcase skills learnt from welcome players, whether you are in charge at Whitgift. Plentiful South East and also boasting an Schools champions. His funeral was all ages, with the strongest OB paired their school days. If you would like passing through or have moved to the Fives justified plentiful liquid overall age of approximately 600 well attended and his lifelong friend with the weakest pupil; this made for to participate in OB Fives please area, and if you would like to come refreshments, food and socialising. years, a thoroughly enjoyable day David Hebblethwaite delivered a very some extremely competitive games contact Nick Cumberlege on nicholas. along, contact Prashant Chopra on Also memorable was the sunny was had by all. moving tribute. throughout the day. Chris Hedley- [email protected] 07824 399 571 or [email protected]. mid-October Sunday when a dozen Nick Woolfenden Philip Atkinson Dent took charge of organizing the Alex Rew Gareth Price

22 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 23 Club reports 2015-16 Derby Moor

Oxford University RFA, Winchester College, UCS Old Boys Last year saw us suffer the heaviest and Old Whitgiftians, and only the UCS White Rose Club Varsity loss on record, and we all saw match was lost. It's been a poor year for the White this year as an opportunity to right last Five pairs contested the Christmas Rose Club, with a shortage of year’s wrongs. This positive attitude Doubles round robin. There was added members making it difficult to was aided by a crop of talented new interest in that, for the first time, get a IV out for many club nights. Derby Moor Fives goes indoors players, most notably Sid Bhushan, we had a mixed pair of Ollie Arnold Most existing members are over 60 Tom Owen and Harry Hutchinson. and Louise Mathias. To add to the and the lack of support is causing Stuart Kirby's photo diary charts the transformation of the Derby Moor courts Match highlights included a excitement Ollie and Louise made it to concern that we may be unable to 27-31 OCT 2015 resounding away victory over the the final against Kevin Brice and Alex cover court fees. We negotiated a The original back Executioners and a well-fought narrow Mullan. The trophy appeared to be in rent freeze for this year, but the 26 OCT 2015 wall was found to loss against St Paul’s. the grasp of the all-male pairing at 14- intention appears to be that it will The diggers move in and be unstable, so the The Club put in an impressive 13, when Ollie produced an amazing increase by 10% next year. remove about 300 tons of earth decision was taken performance at the Universities series of winners for a 16-14 victory. On a happier note, we attended to remove it and start again tournament, with captain Thomas The Club qualified for the quarter- the Veterans, Vintage and Yorkshire punching above his weight to knock finals of the Club Championship in Open tournaments, though failing out the eighth seed. We struggled to London and was represented by a very to win silverware. Hawke and show the same conviction at other strong IV of Ollie Arnold, Theo Parker, Sandie, however, did win the Bottle tournaments, though, where we failed Tom Watkinson and Kevin Brice. We of Beer at the Veterans Doubles. to progress to the later stages. overcame the challenge of the RFA to One new player has also appeared 5-12 NOV 2016 That said, these tournaments reach the semis – but met our match at recent club nights. Although a Foundations in, proved invaluable in helping us in the Wessex Club, who went on to mature novice, he makes up for the walls start to be built, but bad to prepare for the Varsity Match win the competition. inexperience with enthusiasm. weather makes and levels of intensity at this year’s Thanks are due to our enthusiastic I hope this isn't the final White work tricky contest were particularly high. The captain, Kevin Brice, for his tireless Rose report! odds were stacked against us, given involvement throughout the season. John Hawke that three of Cambridge’s side were We wound up with an enjoyable curry ranked in the top 10, but that didn't evening well attended by players past 13 NOV 2015 The floor goes stop some admirable performances. and present. Hopefully a tradition for in just days Notable contributions came from the future? before the 18 DEC 2015 former captain Whitney, who took Lionel Lawson walls are built No roof seven points off his opponent, and yet, but we Bertie Mills and Will Yates, who were Wessex Club headed into indefatigable in the doubles. The 284- Another good year at the Wessex Club the Christmas break with 120 loss was a disappointment, even when we were delighted to welcome things starting if it was a vast improvement on last our first lady member, Shinan Zhang, to take shape year. I'm extremely proud of the spirit who played Fives at Malvern College displayed by the team and wish the and brought with her three fellow The White Rose Club take on Club all the best for next year. Southampton University students, the RFA aka Derby Moor Francis Thomas all new to Fives but keen and talented sportsmen. With these players taking 25-28 APR 2016 West of England to the game so quickly, and with the winners by a 266-257 margin. We also Bob Dolby makes Fives Club boys from Winchester College so had an enjoyable Curry-and-Fives his mark on the courts as the The WoE Club has enjoyed a buoyant strong at the moment there were few evening with the Exeter Fives Club, viewing floor season with a mix of regular gentle games, regardless of who is on winning 211-173 (though Alex Rew and is stained Wednesday evening club nights, a court. Battles seem to go on later and Alexandra Steel remained unbeaten handful of fixtures, the traditional later into the evening, but we've not for the second year running), and Christmas Doubles (with a first-time lost sight of the fact that sausages and in April we retained the Wood Cup, outcome) and a semi-final appearance the Whykham Arms remain a core part although we doubled our chances by at the Club Championship. of our evenings! entering two teams! Our biggest ever Club membership is around Other highlights end-of-season tournament saw 36 1-3 JUNE 2016 22, evenly split between Bristol included a great players competing for the Letchworth Windows go in University players and locally match of the Bowl: this year Ed Hawke and Nigel and the end is based, more senior members. It ‘Winchester Fives Gainsborough came out as winners. in sight is an ongoing concern that the Association’ Thanks go to Mike Crompton and only remaining Fives-playing against the RFA, his team at Summit International for school in Bristol – Clifton College, where we came so generously giving of their time to where we play – is only playing out narrow create our brilliant new website. www. JUNE 2016 Fives returns to the game as an ‘activity’. wessexfivesclub.org.uk. Derby Moor, in courts to proud Matches were held against the The Letchworth Bowl Harry Akerman of – thanks to all who helped!

24 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 25 Memories Obituaries

Memories of a lifetime in Fives Obituaries Ian Fuller looks back on his 44 years at the heart of the RFA in many varied roles This year we’ve lost three significant figures in the history of the RFA and RFA Club Ian Fuller has completed 44 years’ will be a source of pride: John Howe Jerry Cooper Reeve Wood service to the RFA. In that time, he n Re-drafting the Constitution with held all the important offices: Hon. Lionel Lawson and Peter Dunscombe (1943–2015) (1935–2015) (1955–2016) Sec. 1976-83; Deputy President 1993- in the 1980s to recommend, among 95; President 1995-97; Gen. Sec. 2003- other things, the creation of a paid 08 and 2011-15, Treasurer 2003-16. He Gen. Sec. This was revolutionary at the attended more than 140 RFA time but was agreed by the AGM and Committee/Board meetings, and we has continued to this day. asked Ian for his memories. n The merger of the RFA and RFA Club "My first Committee meeting is in the 1990s. This tricky and sensitive etched in my memory. Shortly after issue could not have been achieved leaving school I was told I'd been without the co-operation of David elected as an RFA Committee member Barnes, then RFA Club President, and and on the day of the first meeting I the way the memberships welcomed was advised by one of the younger the initiative was a delightful surprise. members that it was “the done thing” n The creation of the ‘Fives Forum,’ to meet beforehand in the ‘Bunch of which was hatched over a beer with Grapes’. More than a few beers later we the then EFA Chairman, Michael John Howe in 1994 with Dave Hebden Jerry Cooper chairing the RFA Board in 1998 Reeve Wood holding the 1987 President’s Cup walked, slightly less nervously in my Constantinidi. Through the later case, to the meeting involvement of John In November we learned of the death Just before Christmas we lost Jerry In January RFA members were shocked to be greeted by a ‘A major East, the Forum of John Howe. John was National Cooper, aged 80. Jerry was President of and saddened to hear of the death of sea of faces became the Fives Singles champion in 1966 and 1968 the RFA from 1997 to 1999, having Reeve Wood, son of Tom and Joan and shrouded in a cloud highlight for me Federation and the and won the National Doubles in 1967 been in charge of Fives at Bedford Honorary Secretary of the RFA Club of pipe smoke. More signing ceremony and 1968 with Stan Holt. He won the School from 1963 to 1993, during which from 1991-95. Reeve was only 60 but than half smoked a was being between the EFA and National Veterans Singles from 1988 to time Bedford won the Schools’ Singles had been undergoing treatment for a pipe – it almost elected President RFA seemed like a 1993, and the Veterans Doubles three seven times and the Doubles twice. brain tumour. He and his wife Reggie seemed a pre- historical occasion. times with Geoff Sherratt and once For many years Bedford has been a had lived in County Wexford in Ireland requisite to being on in 1993’ "A major highlight with David Barnes. hub of social Fives in the best sense of for the past 16 years. the Committee! for me was being An Old Dunstonian, John was a the word; Jerry was very much at the Reeve greatly enjoyed his Fives – he "Discussions were quite genteel in elected President. During my term I creative left-hander who left his centre of that. He was a staunch was a President’s Cup winner in 1987 those days – “I don’t think we need do played in virtually every tournament opponent wondering where the next supporter of Fives at all levels and with Jeremy Schroeter – and his huge anything about that,” “Let’s leave and it was exciting to see the shot might come from or, indeed, throughout the land, and his name will loyalty to his parents was shown by his things as they are” and the classic enthusiasm for the game at local level. where it might be going. He possessed live on in the trophy he presented for willingness to travel great distances to “Well, of course in my day...” "I've been privileged to work with brilliant hand-eye coordination, the Midlands Schools Regional Open play across Britain and in the USA, and "The hours discussing the detail of over 20 Presidents – some adopted quickness of movement and an Singles: The Cooper Cup. by assuming responsibility for the RFA the Incorporation of the RFA more of a hands-off approach, chairing athleticism that set him apart as a David Dance, one of Jerry’s ‘products’ Club in 1991. He helped Reggie and his and the move to Charitable meetings and attending tournaments, sportsman of the highest calibre. He said of him: “I was really sad to hear of sister Cherry to achieve a good Status sticks in my mind. The others more of an executive role. Each was as colourful a character on court as his death, but I thought back to Easter standard of Fives, too: they had success involvement of all Board had at least one or two initiatives they off, and many a young player aspired terms at Bedford School and very in both a National Doubles and a members to ensure both wished to introduce, which always to play the game as John did, with skill, happy memories of Jerry, usually with Winchester Ladies’ Doubles. Reeve and were put on a proper footing brought a freshness to proceedings. I fairness and a sense of enjoyment. a fag in his mouth and a wry grin on Reggie teamed up to win the was exemplary and ensured couldn’t count how many Board Stan Holt said: “I was lucky enough his face, offering us some piece of sage Winchester Mixed Doubles in 1998. a successful transition. members I've worked with, but the to partner John on many occasions – advice. As a coach he achieved the "My involvement in three energy and enthusiasm they all all games were a pleasure because he most extraordinary run of success defining moments in the brought helped the RFA to become the played with such enthusiasm and with a minimum of fuss and none of history of the Association successful organisation it is today. enjoyment. He was scrupulously fair the ‘protein shakes’ and 365-day "The Association is far healthier and and would pit his skills against all training that seems to characterise LEFT (FROM TOP) Ian more professional than ever before types of opposition with a great sense schools sports nowadays! When he did winning the Vintage Singles and seeing the strength of the current of fun. Of all the activities that John offer suggestions about how to in 2015; taking over as General Secretary from younger membership on and off the took part in I’d suggest he was never improve one’s game, it was always All three will be greatly missed and the Michael Beaman in 2003 court bodes very well for the future." happier than when playing Fives.” spot on.” thoughts of the RFA are with their families.

26 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 27 National Rankings 100 Club

RFA rankings at end of season 2015-2016 Singles Current Previous Name Pts Current Previous Name Pts 1 2 W Ellison 97.3 ~ G Munn 13.1 2 1 D Tristao 94.5 31 26 J Tilston 12.3 Room for End-of-Season Rankings 3 3 D Grant 63.6 32 25 C Burrows 11.2 4 6 E Kay 61.8 32 A Goodwin 11.2 Dave Hebden looks at the risers and fallers in the 2015-2016 rankings 5 10 B Beltrami 53.1 34 ~ A Bowden 10.5 more in the 6 5 M Cavanagh 42.4 35 ~ C Blackaby 10.0 7 7 D Butler 41.4 ~ E Hawke 10.0 8 4 J Toop 34.9 34 S Kirby 10.0 100 Club! 9 24 J Aquilina 34.4 38 ~ B Jourdan 9.3 Will Ellison heads up both the singles 10 9 R Murby 33.1 39 ~ T Watkinson 8.9 The 100 Club started and doubles rankings at the end of 11 15 M Shaw 29.9 40 40 N Roberts 8.5 in the early 1980s 12 37 O Arnold 29.7 41 46 F Thomas 7.7 the season following some great 13 8 J Minta 28.6 42 ~ R Whitehorn 7.1 to provide funds for results over the year, including wins 14 12 T Maconie 26.5 43 34 T Widdop 6.7 the renovation of 15 27 A Boyd 26.1 44 45 A Hamilton 5.4 in both the National Singles and 16 38 P Hanton 23.1 39 J Pinder 5.4 courts, and for other Doubles – a fine achievement. 17 17 T Parker 22.2 46 42 J Halligan 4.8 expenses associated 18 30 H Jefferies 21.1 47 40 M Kemp 4.4 Although Will has previously topped 19 11 H Buchanan 20.6 48 ~ S Bhushan 4.3 with the promotion the singles rankings mid-season, this 20 19 A George 20.0 49 51 J Sinton 4.1 of the game of Rugby Fives, at the 21 20 M Bate 18.9 50 ~ J Smith 3.2 is the first time he’s been number one 22 18 E Hatton 18.5 51 ~ M Spillane 2.2 discretion of the RFA Committee – at the end of the season, having been 23 14 C Brooks 18.4 52 ~ J Sellar 2.0 now the RFA Board. Over the years 24 16 T Kiggell 16.8 53 43 D Fox 1.5 pipped by Dan Tristao in both of the 25 21 J Brubert 15.1 54 50 B Ashraf 1.4 funds have been made available to last two years. In doubles Will remains 26 28 S Russell 14.6 ~ B Chua 1.4 many schools to assist with projects; 27 21 G Price 14.0 51 C Kent 1.4 the dominant player, having held the 28 23 C Waller 13.2 57 49 R Houlden 1.3 for example £2500 was donated to top slot in four of the last five seasons. 29 13 T Dean 13.1 Rugby School for their new courts. We In the singles, Will picked up six Doubles are presently contributing towards of the nine open trophies on offer, the cost of coaching at the Edinburgh 1 2 W Ellison 98.0 51 ~ S Bhushan 10.0 only losing twice, both times to Dan 2 1 D Tristao 91.1 ~ C Blackaby 10.0 Academy. Currently we have around 80 Tristao, in the London and the West of 3 3 D Grant 86.9 ~ E Carr 10.0 members but are looking to increase 4 4 E Kay 74.8 ~ C Davey 10.0 England. The other event, in Scotland, 5 8 C Brooks 70.7 ~ T Hebblethwaite 10.0 this number and if we can exceed 100 was won by David Butler. This was 6 9 B Beltrami 67.1 54 S Kirby 10.0 then the prize money can be increased. 7 5 H Buchanan 60.0 ~ T McCahon 10.0 his first senior win, and the first by a 8 6 T Dean 56.6 ~ J Singh 10.0 Membership costs just a minimum Bradfieldian since Roger Layton won 9 10 M Shaw 55.7 ~ T Wakelam 10.0 of £12 per annum, which gives you one 10 12 D Butler 51.5 54 T Widdop 10.0 the North of England in 1992. Ed Kay 11 15 T Parker 46.4 61 65 B Ashraf 8.7 ‘ticket’ in the draw. The more tickets (at four) picked up the University 12 7 J Minta 45.8 ~ E Li 8.7 you buy, the better your chance of ‘Julian Aquilina is 13 19 O Arnold 44.7 63 ~ E Castillo 7.1 and U25 titles, while Ben Beltrami 14 17 J Aquilina 39.4 54 R Christie 7.1 winning! There are three prize draws continues his progress, moving to five. the highest riser in 16 J Tilston 39.4 ~ L Cook 7.1 each year: 16 13 R Perry 34.6 43 R Dyke 7.1 Julian Aquilina is the highest riser the top 10, moving 17 25 A George 31.6 30 W Enstone 7.1 in the top 10, moving up 15 places to 20 E Hatton 31.6 ~ H Fry 7.1 Spring Draw 19 14 C Burrows 28.3 59 J Halligan 7.1 nine. James Toop’s absence from the up 15 places’ 20 33 J Sinton 27.2 ~ A Hamilton 7.1 1st Prize £50 tournament circuit sees him drop to 21 ~ A McCreath 26.5 ~ Z Jopling 7.1 2nd Prize £35 22 24 A Boyd 25.5 48 T Lewis 7.1 eight. Ollie Arnold, Matt Shaw, Andrew 59 B Jourdan 25.5 ~ B Mills 7.1 Boyd, Peter Hanton and Henry Jefferies progress in the top 20. Ben Jourdan 24 30 J Hughes 25.0 ~ G Munn 7.1 Summer Draw 65 A Rew 25.0 ~ M Nunes 7.1 are among a crop of improving players from Edinburgh Academy deserves 26 21 M Kemp 24.5 ~ T Raikes 7.1 1st Prize £150 featuring in the top 20. We have 12 new mention for moving up to 22, whilst 34 A Pringle 24.5 48 A Smith 7.1 28 26 R Murby 24.0 80 B Smithson 7.1 entries, Giles Munn the highest at 29. the somewhat more experienced Alex 29 23 S Russell 23.5 ~ L Taylor 7.1 Winter Draw The seven open doubles trophies Rew moves up to 24 after his semi-final 30 18 M Bate 22.4 48 R Warner 7.1 1st Prize £50 26 J Beswick 22.4 48 S Watson 7.1 were shared around a little more. appearance in the West of England. We 32 11 G Price 21.2 ~ N Whitney 7.1 2nd Prize £35 Will Ellison picked up five titles, Dan welcome as many as 24 new entries 33 29 N Roberts 20.6 ~ A Wordley 7.1 34 80 P Hanton 20.0 84 62 S Hodgson 6.1 Tristao and Dan Grant both took three, into the doubles rankings this season, 35 21 J Brubert 17.3 47 T Kiggell 6.1 The winner of the 2016 summer a fit-again Charlie Brooks took two and including Louise Mathias, who joins 26 B Chua 17.3 62 N Woolfenden 6.1 draw was Bev Boag. 65 N Geere 17.3 87 62 J Ader 5.0 David Butler one. The two invitation Alexandra Steel as the second female 38 38 A Goodwin 16.6 65 A Esin 5.0 The 100 Club is not in any way in events were won by Ed Hatton and player in the rankings. 39 36 E Hawke 15.8 65 M Hale 5.0 competition with the RFA Charitable 30 C Waller 15.8 65 W Harrison 5.0 Andy Pringle (South East) and Jez It’s encouraging to report that 2015- 41 65 T Watkinson 15.0 65 D Hill 5.0 Trust and the scale of the Fund is, Sinton and Archie McCreath (Scotland). 16 produced an all-time record for 43 R Whitehorn 15.0 65 T Hoskins 5.0 of course, significantly smaller. 43 48 F Thomas 14.1 65 C Kent 5.0 Matt Shaw won both the University singles entrants, and by some margin. 44 41 I Ackland 12.2 59 J Malde 5.0 Nevertheless the Board believes that and U25 Doubles, the former with Ben One factor in this was the record ~ C Baxter 12.2 ~ L Mathias 5.0 this different vehicle can provide 36 T Chase 12.2 65 O Sale 5.0 Beltrami, and the latter with Ed Kay. National Singles entry (59), whilst TOP Singles medallists at the Scottish meaningful support to schools across Open, Dave Butler’s first senior title 48 H Jefferies 12.2 65 R Sandie 5.0 Outside of these winners Ollie Arnold, maybe the current young profile of 38 G Lemmon 12.2 65 G Sperling 5.0 the country – as well as a possible CENTRE Ed Kay in full flow at BUSF 38 M Spillane 12.2 65 A Steel 5.0 Theo Parker, Julian Aquilina, James tournament attendees is reflected in BOTTOM Matt Shaw and Ben Beltrami, 50 54 O Quarry 11.2 return on your contributions! Ian Fuller Tilston and Adam George make good these good singles numbers. BUSF Doubles champions again Start Season following: position shows 2016; Previous End of Season, May following: position shows Current

28 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 29 RFA Charitable Trust Season at a glance

The Rugby Fives Association 2015-16 results round-up Charitable Trust Full details of all these events on (Registered Charity No. 1087264) (Trustees: J. East, F. Akerman, www.rugbyfivesassociation.net B. Hanton, D. Hebden, I Fuller, C. Niven, A. Pringle and R. Warner) John East reports on the Charitable Trust’s activities SOUTH WEST OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS NATIONAL LADIES’ CHAMPIONSHIPS NATIONAL DOUBLES CHAMPIONSHIP 2015 2016 (CYRIAX CUP) 2016 Singles: W.Ellison Singles: K.Briedenhann C.Brooks & W.Ellison During its last financial The Trust is ever willing to Doubles: C.Brooks & W.Ellison Doubles: K.Briedenhann & T.Mills year to 30 September consider applications for grants for NATIONAL GIRLS’ CHAMPIONSHIPS 2015 the Trust received both large and small projects, SOUTH EAST OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS NORTH WEST OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016 an income of over although its funds are winding down The enclosed Derby Moor courts 2015 2016 U18 Singles: A.Law (Malvern) £27,500 – a very high after some significant projects in Singles: W.Ellison Singles: W.Ellison U18 Doubles: Malvern (A.Law & M.Wong) figure by recent recent years and a new appeal may be willing to contribute to the Trust’s Doubles: E.Hatton & A.Pringle Doubles: W.Ellison & D.Grant U16 Singles: H.Fagan (Rugby) standards. It made one necessary before long to build up funds please do get in touch with me U16 Doubles: Rugby (H.Fagan & LONDON OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS 2015 NATIONAL U25 CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016 F.Harrison) grant of a little over £1100 to funds for future ventures. Its ability to through the RFA website. Equally, if Singles: D.Tristao Singles: E.Kay U14 Singles: K.Sumner (Bedford Modern) reimburse Derby Moor Fives for the support recent substantial projects has you’re willing to leave a legacy to the Doubles: W.Ellison & D.Tristao Doubles: E.Kay & M.Shaw U14 Doubles: Bedford Modern (M.Kent & costs of running the Club there and been reliant on a few very generous Trust, then please consider using the K.Sumner) another of some £23,000 to Alleyn’s donors giving funds to support those template below as a codicil, suitably OWERS TROPHY 2015 THE VARSITY MATCH 2016 UI3 Singles: A.Alli (Christ’s Hospital) School to renovate the floor at the specific projects, while the Derby Moor adjusted if you are writing a new will. Old Paulines Men’s: Cambridge beat Oxford 284-120 U13 Doubles: Christ’s Hospital (A.Alli & school. A further payment of over Club has been a model organisation in As ever, I’d like to thank all my fellow Women’s: Cambridge beat Oxford 147-83 L.Thwaites) £32,000 has been made towards the terms of collection, saving and Trustees for their support over the THE LADY’S CUP 2015 cost of enclosing the courts at Derby managing its court fund over more past year and I should also thank Peter L.Mathias & R.Stuart NORTH OF ENGLAND OPEN NATIONAL VETERANS’ Moor. There is currently an than a decade of careful stewardship. de Winton for his continuing CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016 CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016 YORKSHIRE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS Singles: W.Ellison Singles: M.Cavanagh outstanding commitment to help The ability of the RFACT to provide assistance with the accounts. 2015 Doubles: W.Ellison & D.Grant Doubles: J.Minta & A.Pringle towards the cost of reinstating a court support to many projects has been an I’d also like to express my thanks to Singles: D.Tristao at St. Andrew’s Prep School in important factor in helping various our contributors over the years, Doubles: D.Butler & D.Tristao NATIONAL WINCHESTER FIVES NATIONAL MASTERS’ Eastbourne and a further payment will initiatives come to fruition over the without whose generosity the Trust’s DOUBLES 2016 CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016 be due to Derby Moor, as its building last decade. With that ability now ability to support the game would WEST OF ENGLAND OPEN Doubles: W.Ellison & E.Kay Doubles: D.Hebden & M.Wilkinson programme reaches its conclusion. somewhat reduced, if you feel able and have been very constrained. CHAMPIONSHIPS 2015 Singles: D.Tristao LADIES WINCHESTER FIVES SCOTTISH OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS ! Doubles: D.Grant & D.Tristao CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016 2016 I (Name) Singles: K.Briedenhann Singles: D.Butler SCHOOLS WINCHESTER FIVES Doubles: K.Briedenhann & T.Mills Doubles: A.McCreath & J.Sinton Of (Address) DOUBLES 2015 Declare this to be a (first/second as appropriate) Codicil to my last Will dated the day of 19 /20 (“my will”). Winchester College (P.Kullavanijaya NATIONAL VINTAGE CHAMPIONSHIPS MIXED WINCHESTER FIVES DOUBLES My Will shall be construed and take effect as if it contained the following clause: & A.Song) 2016 2016 I give free of inheritance tax to The Rugby Fives Charitable Trust, registered charity number 1087264 Singles: I.Fuller Doubles: K.Briedenhann & B.Beltrami a)* per cent ( %) (percentage in words and figures) of my residuary estate for the general purposes of said charity. NATIONAL STUDENTS (BUSF) Doubles: I.Fuller & D.Hebden b)* The sum of pounds (£ ) (sum in words and figures) for the general purposes of the charity. CHAMPIONSHIPS 2015 DERBY MOOR INVITATION DOUBLES The receipt of any Trustee or other officer for the time being of the said charity shall be sufficient discharge to my Executors. Singles: E.Kay NATIONAL SCHOOLS 2016 In All other respects I confirm my Will (and Codicil dated) (date of Codicil) Doubles: B.Beltrami & M.Shaw CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016 H.Buchanan & L.Keates In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand on this day of 20 U18 Singles: A.Boyd (Edinburgh Academy) NATIONAL SINGLES CHAMPIONSHIP U18 Doubles: St. Paul’s (H.Mahajan & Signed by the said (Name) 2015 A.Taylor) W.Ellison U16 Singles: T.Kidner (Winchester) (Signature of testator) U16 Doubles: Winchester (T.Kidner & PRESIDENT’S CUP 2015 A.Poyntz)) As and for a (first/second etc) Codicil to his/her Will in our presence. And by us jointly attested and subscribed in his/her presence D.Grant & M.Kiteley U14 Singles: D.Percival (Winchester) U14 Doubles: Winchester (S.Fraser & FIRST WITNESS SECOND WITNESS WEST OF ENGLAND SCHOOLS D.Percival) CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016 U13 Singles: I.Jochim (St. Olave’s) U18 Singles: A.Song (Winchester) U13 Doubles: St. Olave’s (Y.Bleunven & U18 Doubles: Winchester (P.Kullavanijaya I.Jochim) (Signature of witness) (Signature of witness) & A.Song) NAME NAME U16 Singles: T.Kidner (Winchester) NATIONAL CLUB KNOCK-OUT (WOOD Address Address U16 Doubles: Winchester (S.Byers & CUP) 2016 T.Kidner) Wessex Club Winners of the Derby Moor Doubles Occupation Occupation Buchanan & Keates * Delete as appropriate 30 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 RFA Annual Review 2015-16 31