Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

Contents – Team reports

o Mens 1st XV – Steve Russell o Mens 2nd XV – Ian Evans o Ladies – Emma Bliss o Colts – Leon Brown o U16 boys – Nick Hutt o U15 boys – Graham Benford o U14 boys – Simon Stacey o U13 boys – Katy Urwin o U12 boys – Danny Siddons o U11 mixed – Maddy Simons o U10 mixed – Craig Dyke o U9 mixed – Julian Collis o U8 mixed – Sarah Harris

Mens 1st XV – Manager: Steve Russell

Total games played - League & Cup 1 West P W D L P W D L 27 14 0 13 26 14 0 12 Points for = 670 Points against = 721 Points for = 653 Points against = 695

Finished 5th in Midlands 1 West - 5 points behind Stoke on Trent in 4th - 7 points clear of in 6th - League bonus points accumulated - 12 try bonus & 4 losing bonus

Leicestershire County Cup - Lost away at Syston 26 - 17

The season: - 81 training sessions completed (including pre-season) with an average attendance to each session of 31! - In total 45 different players have represented the 1st XV this season. 8 players have played in 20 games or more, 7 forwards and only Reece Jones from the backs. - Reece Jones 20 games - George Turner 21 games - Ed Hopkins and Luke Evans 22 games

Page 1 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

- Joe Sullivan and Charlie Turner 23 games - Josh Connor 25 games - James Thomas 26 games

Points scored: A total of 105 tries scored to date, an average of 4 tries/game

Top try scorers: Conor Warburton 7 Olly Jempson 8 Joe Sullivan 12 Josh Connor an incredible 23! Points scored: Olly Jempson 40 Reece Jones 51 Joe Sullivan 60 Josh Connor 193

Man of the match: 17 different players were awarded M.O.M with 8 players receiving it on more than 1 occasion. - Paul Wilford, Olly Jempson, Luke Ball, Josh Connor, Harry Wood & Joe Sullivan all received it on 2 occasions. - Charlie Turner & Conor Warburton both received it on 3 occasions. Conor having played in only 8 games.

1st XV debuts: 9 players debuted for the 1st XV this season. Dan White 1 game Tom Vesty 3 games Luke Greenwood 4 games John Kenwood 5 games Sam Read 6 games Ed Allen 9 games Ross Burgoine 10 games Kieran Hussey 11 games Christian Mutch 11 games

50 Ties awarded: Dan Jones & Ed Garner

Other milestones: - Brad Pell and James Thomas both passed 100 1st XV games this season.

Page 2 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

- Charlie Turner passed 200 1st XV games this season.

Awards: Most improved player...... Kieran Hussey Young player...... Reece Jones Captain’s player...... Martin Rayner Coaches’ Player...... Josh Connor (for the 2nd season running) Players’ player...... Charlie Turner

Players’ player went to the last game of the season with only 2 votes separating Josh Connor with 41 and Charlie Turner with 43. The Players’ player award is decided on the cumulative man of the match votes throughout the season. This is the 4th time Charlie has received the award, the last time being season 2014/15.

The season

Pre-season training started on the first Tuesday in July with numbers on both evenings exceeding 30 players and sometimes even 40!

Kevin Jones joined the Senior coaching team for the season, concentrating his efforts with the backs. The rest of the team consisted of Steve Lamb, now taking on the role as Head coach, Geraint Davies (also backs) and Tim Walker working with the forwards.

Due to the League structures and where the club is geographically, the Midlands League Organising Committee (MLOC) requested Lutterworth move to Midlands 1 West for the 2017/18 season. It's common knowledge that the competition is certainly harder in M1W, with several of the teams having played previously in the National leagues. Anyway, as much as Lutterworth didn't know the competition, the competition didn't know Lutterworth either.

The first Saturday in September saw the season start and a home fixture against , who were promoted from Mids 2 West the previous season. Several key players were missing; however Lutts still fielded a strong side. Lions flying high from the previous season brought a large and vocal support to cheer on their team, even though it had changed dramatically playerwise from the previous season. Lions started well, their experienced pack slowing the game to suit their play. Lutterworth were trailing 15 - 24 at half time and had it all to do. Unfortunately, although Lutts had the better of the second half and with the score at 34 - 34, Lions were awarded a penalty, last play of the game, which they converted and took the spoils 34 - 37. Although a disappointing result, 2 all important bonus points had been earnt.

Page 3 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

The first away game of the season was to Stoke on Trent, a side who Lutterworth had lost to in the National Cup some 5 seasons before, the same season that Stoke were promoted to M1W. Torrential rain before kick off looked like it might spoil the game but fortunately the afternoon then remained dry. Regrettably Lutts didn't seem to rise to the task and even though the pack was in total dominance, the home side Stoke were up 6 - 0 at half time. Lutterworth managed to get some points on the board second half but trailed score wise all game, mainly due to ill discipline, losing 16 - 10.

Stourbridge Lions were next to visit Ashby Lane and with 2 games played Lutterworth were 11th in the league knowing full well that a win was key to elevate their lowly position. Lutts started well with the visitors coming strong in the second half. The spoils ending in our favour 20 - 17.

Late September and a beautiful afternoon to watch rugby as Lutts ventured to . After an annihilation of the home sides pack Lutterworth ran in 8 tries and came away victorious 23 - 50! Although too early to tell, 6th in M1W certainly felt more comfortable.

An ever changing side (the story of the season really) greeted to Ashby Lane. A side who had bullied us in the National Cup first round, beating us comfortably and knocking us out of the competition some 4 seasons ago. Lutts put on a great performance 1st half literally blowing the visitors off the park and went in 29 - 7 at half time. With the weather deteriorating Wolverhampton adapted to a tight game which Lutts struggled to counter but did hang on to win 34 - 27.

Mid October and an away trip to , a side relegated the previous season and currently sitting at the top of M1W. Lutts were always going to struggle as it was 1st XV's Captain Joe Sullivan’s wedding! We were not just missing Sully on the day as in his wisdom he'd also invited more than half the 1st team to his wedding. Players were drafted in from the 2's and even the Colts but despite putting in a shift, were no match for the side, losing 60 - 12.

Burton were next, a side that had also only recently been relegated from National 3 and in my opinion the only side in M1W whose pack were more than a match for ours. Lutts were well and truly beaten on the day 5 - 38.

With the 2 recent defeats Lutts had slipped to 8th in M1W although, confidence was high heading to side Camp Hill who were floundering at the bottom of the league table having not yet registered a victory. Unfortunately, after a poor performance from Lutterworth and a try for the home side last play of the game, the result went against us, a 15 - 14 loss.

Page 4 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

November now and were next to Ashby Lane. Lutts just couldn't match the visitors who scored 9 tries throughout the game, thumping Lutterworth 20 - 59.

Mid November and on paper Lutterworth looked to have a strong side for the next fixture away at Hereford. After a particularly tight game which I'm sure if it had continued a little longer Lutts would have won, finished 16 - 15 in favour of the home side.

2 home games on the trot now definitely favoured Lutterworth. Worcester couldn't compete and Lutts ran in 7 tries to win the game 45 - 22. And Melbourne, a side promoted to Mids 1 this season put on a spirited performance, leading 8 - 10 at half time. Lutts eventually taking the spoils 22 - 10 on the final whistle.

The snow in early December forced the cancellation of the away fixture against Oak. A week off, then the last game of 2017, the first of the turn around fixtures and another home game would see Stoke on Trent visit Ashby Lane. Fortunately a far better game than the previous fixture against Stoke saw Lutts score 7 tries and clinch the victory 41 - 29.

Into the New Year and after a 3 week layoff Lutterworth looked a little rusty away against Lions. Another Sticking point was the game was played on their 3G AGP which further hampered Lutts, losing 38 - 24 and picking up a few nasty injuries too.

Sutton Coldfield had found form of late, only narrowly losing to Nuneaton, who play National 3, a couple of weeks previously. Lutts started well with an early 12 - 0 lead but at half time had it all to do going in 12 - 27 down. A fantastic and confident 2nd half saw Lutterworth dominate proceedings, and poach the victory 29 - 27

A trip to Wolverhampton was next on the cards and after driving there we arrived to find the pitch totally unplayable, despite the best efforts of the home side who were adamant we played the game. Another Saturday without a game.

Bromsgrove at home at the end of January and this time we had a stronger side and a point to prove. A spirited first half performance, 20 minutes played before the deadlock was broken and although down 5 - 8 at half time, Lutts looked the stronger team. Unfortunately the visitors scored early in the 2nd half which seemed to lift their spirits, pushing on to 12 - 27 final score.

A cancelled game away at Burton and a Cup Saturday off would see Camp Hill as the next opponents at Ashby Lane. Lutts wanted payback from the previous poor performance earlier in the season. A much improved performance with 7 tries scored, Lutts thumped the visitors 44 - 11.

Page 5 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

County Cup action next, away against Syston the following week and although dominant, leading at half time and playing the better rugby, Lutts lost the game 26 - 17.

Hereford at home next after another postponed fixture against Dudley the previous week. The away game in the first half of the season was tight with only 1 point separating the sides after 80 minutes. The return fixture was very much the same, Lutts were up 14 - 5 at half time, finally taking the win 22 - 19 after a very close game.

8 league games of the season remaining with only 1 home fixture due to various postponements earlier on. Wolverhampton were first on the agenda, and after a first class performance in some atrocious conditions Lutterworth dominated proceedings, taking the spoils 5 - 34.

Worcester next, a team who had found form with some exceptional recent performances. A tight game ensued, which could have gone either way but Lutts reigned supreme with another away win 12 - 18.

League leaders Burton were the next hosts and although Lutterworth took a strong side and played some superb rugby, Burton scored on every opportunity they had, thrashing Lutts 56 - 7. In my opinion the score line wasn't a true reflection of the game but hats off to Burton as they were without doubt the best side in the league. As I have already said, the only side to dominate the Lutterworth pack.

Melbourne next and with their pitch being waterlogged after more poor weather the game was to be played at University on the 3G artificial grass pitch. Melbourne had also had some superb recent results and a team who needed a result to stop possible relegation. The Lutterworth pack were dominant but weren't receiving the spoils and at the break it was 8 - 8. Lutts had the better of the 2nd half, scoring a further 12 points to Melbournes 3. Final score 11 - 20.

Lutts, sitting 5th in M1E, with 2 games in hand over some teams, hosted Moseley Oak. Despite it being mid April and nearly the end of the season Lutterworth hadn't played Moseley. Lutts reigned supreme, scored 6 tries to the visitors 3, running out victors 37 - 17.

Rugby Lions away, what a performance from 1 to 18 and what a pleasure to watch. Lutterworth dominated from the kick off, scored 9 tries in total, 5 first half and 4 the second, silenced the home side supporters and put on by far the best performance of the season. Final score 53 - 17.

Page 6 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

Moseley Oak away - perhaps I'm being overly critical as there wasn't much to play for league wise. Burton were the winners, were through to the play offs and Lutterworth would either finish 4th or 5th. Moseley had the want to win and so they did, final score 27 - 7

The first Saturday in May, Bank Holiday weekend and with temperatures well into the 20's this wasn't really ideal conditions for the last game of the season, the rescheduled fixture away against Dudley Kingswinford. Dudley had it all to play for as they needed the win for the home play off. The first half was tight, going in 14 - 5 at the break. The home side scored more or less from the re-start and although Lutts scored a try of their own shortly after, they then seemed to back off with Dudley cruising to a 57 - 17 win.

Overall a fantastic effort from the squad throughout the season, despite several injuries and absences throughout the year. Our first year in an extremely competitive league but finishing in a healthy position with a good platform to work from.

Here's looking forward to season 2018/19 as Lutterworth 1st XV and the Seniors as a whole are in a very good place. Long may this continue.

Mens 2nd XV – Manager: Ian Evans

Games played this season Premiership: Finished 4th Pld W L D F A Pld W L D F A Pts 29 16 12 1 733 545 14 6 7 1 330 288 42

Scored: 113 tries, 62 conv, 9 pen, 1 drop goal, 2 pen tries Biggest league win: 66 - 12 against South Leicester

County Cup: We were beaten in the semi finals by a strong Hinckley side Clonmell Cup: Winners beating Southam 15-10

71 players used this season; 34 forwards & 37 backs

Top points scorers: Robbie Spencer 99, Charlie Neale 64, Tom Vesty 60.

Top try scorers: Played Tries Charlie Neale 7 12 Tom Vesty 18 12 Daniel Ford 7 9 Josh Johnson 10 8

Page 7 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

Ross Burgoine 12 8

Most man of the matches: Tom Vesty 5 Ciaran Mcvea 4 Jacob Tivey 3

Most game played: Adam Wilson 26 (out of 29 games) Pete Hinton 24 ( “ ) Robbie Spencer 23 ( “ )

Awards: Player of the season: Tom Vesty Most improved player: Simon Sandercock Captains player: Ciaran Mcvea

Ladies – Team Manager: Emma Bliss

Total Games Played (League, Cup & Friendlies) National Challenge 1 (Midlands) Results Table

1st - 60 points P W D L ------22 11 0 11 2nd - Olney 50 points 3rd - Five Ways Old Edwardians 46 points Points For – 452 4th - Lutterworth 41 points Points Against – 456 5th - 31 points

6th - Old Northamptonians 24 points National Challenge 1 (Midlands) 7th - Rugby Lionesses 19 points P W D L ------th 14 8 0 6 8 - Wellingborough 6 points

Points For – 317 Points Against – 271

Season Summary

Players: 39 different players have represented the Ladies XV this season.

Ladies XV Debuts: 13 players debuted for the team this season, three of which played for the club in previous years;

 Saska Bishop (also plays touch rugby)  Dannii Carter (returning)  Emma Gordon  Caitlin Hay

Page 8 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

 Siân Kerry  Connie Packwood (returning)  Elizabeth Parnell  Suzanne Ralphson  Anita Reeves (also plays touch rugby)  Tara Smith  Emma Williams (returning)  Jennifer Woods  Leah Wright

Top Try Scorers: Sophie Etheridge 22 (Scrum Half) Emily Powell 12 (Openside Flanker) Abi Kirk 6 (Wing/Outside Centre)

Points Scored: Sophie Etheridge 114 Emily Powell 60 Claire Evans 51 (Fly Half)

Awards: Most Improved Player Ruth Lawrenson Try of the Season Emma Bliss Back of the Year Sophie Etheridge Forward of the Year Jenny White Players Player Emma Bliss Coaches Player Emily Powell

50 Ties awarded: Claire Evans, Laura Wilford, Gina Wagstaff, Meg Gallahan, Abi Kirk, Abbie Laban

County Representation

Our open side flanker, Emily Powell and blindside flanker, Carla Jones, were both selected to represent Leicestershire County this season. Both players represented Lutterworth Ladies fantastically and were selected for the team in all games.

Intermediate Cup/Plate

The Ladies first round of the Cup was played away at Old Leamingtonians. Despite their efforts the Ladies lost 62-12, meaning they were immediately knocked out of the Intermediate Cup and sent straight into the Plate rounds instead. The Ladies were excited to still be in with a chance of getting some silverware for the Club and were determined to get a better result against their next opponents Buckingham Swans. Due to injuries, the opposition pulled out a few days before the fixture, resulting in a walk over win for Lutterworth, even though they would have liked to play some rugby. The next fixture saw the Ladies take on Rugby Lionesses away at Webb Ellis Road. A tough 80 minutes was fought

Page 9 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC by both sides in this local rivalry, but Lutterworth held their nerve and ended up with a win of 39-10 over the opposition. The next stage of the plate was played away at Ashfield in a game of aggression and frustration. Despite the Ladies best efforts and some questionable refereeing, the team lost 21-17 meaning they were no longer in the competition. Although this was disappointing, the Ladies did their best and are very determined to redeem themselves in the Cup competition next season.

League

A very successful season for Lutterworth Ladies overall. The Ladies managed to finish the league in 4th place at the end of the season. Their position was made stronger by managing to secure ‘5’ Try Bonus points, as well as ‘4’ Losing Bonus points out of the 6 games they lost in total.

One of those losing bonus points came from playing top of the league, Kenilworth, away and only losing 19-12. This was one of the Ladies most competitive games during the season and highlighted how much each individual had developed as a result of Nick Cameron’s coaching plan. Another losing bonus point came from playing second in the league, Olney, at home and only losing 20-7.

The Ladies first meeting against third in the league, Five Ways Old Edwardians, happened early on during their second fixture of the season. This resulted in a 53-7 loss and highlighted that a lot of work needed to be done at training. However, when it came to playing Five Ways at home, the Ladies managed to secure a 38-10 victory. This was a great example of how much the Ladies Team has developed as a whole.

The Ladies won 5 out of the 7 fixtures played at home and lost 4 out of the 7 fixtures played away. The team managed to get 317 points for and 271 points against, which is the best result in just under ten years, since the 2008/09 season, where Lutterworth Ladies were promoted from RFUW NCMidlands North 2, achieving 354 points for and only 89 points against.

Next season looks to be very competitive with the addition of , Shelford and Sutton Coldfield. Moving forward, there will be lots of work to do in order for the team to finish in a strong position, but they are planning to build on the foundations that Nick Cameron and Adam Lawrence have put in place in recent seasons.

The Ladies are starting a recruitment drive to bring more Ladies players to the club, as they are hoping to put a second team together for the 19/20 season. They are also make better connections with the upcoming U18’s and U15’s girls to encourage retention and continuity of the Ladies team.

The Ladies have been attending bootcamp sessions at the club every Wednesday evening since May, in order to maintain fitness levels prior to pre-season training. Pre-season training for the Ladies begins on Wednesday 4th July under Andrew Greasley as Head Coach for the 18/19 season, with Les Ketteringham continuing as Forwards Coach. Friendly fixtures have already been scheduled against Ashfield, Leicester University, Coventry Welsh and Burton, which will allow players to dust off the cobwebs, try new positions and develop.

Page 10 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

Everyone is looking forward to the new season and hopes that the team continues to be successful for many more seasons to come.

Colts – Manager : Leon Brown

Achievements Winners: Leicestershire County Cup (3rd year running) Winners: Leicestershire County League U18 (2nd year running) Winners: Leicestershire County League U17 (1st year competing) National Cup Second Round

Representation: U18 Midlands x2 U20 Leicestershire x1 U18 Leicestershire x8 (Midlands Champions 2nd year running) U17 Leicestershire x13 U17 Rugby & District x13 ( Champions consecutive years) Academy x2 (Academy Champions)

Record & Final Stats: Games Played : 36 Won – 27 (73%) Drew – 0 (0%) Lost – 9 (27%) Tries: For – 146 (4.1 p/game) Against – 88 (2.4 p/game) Points: For – 956 (26.6 p/game) Against – 580 (16.1 p/game) Biggest Win (Score): 61-7 Vs Oadby Wyggs Biggest Loss (Score): 6-59 Vs Market Harborough Most Appearances: Ethan Swan (34) Most Tries: Justin Trombas (35) Most Points: Justin Trombas (269) Players Played: 54 (inc U16 transitions) U16s transitioned: 11

Player Awards: Coaches Player Dan Jordan Players Player Joe Wright Most Improved Josh Hawkins Captains Player Jack Ketteringham Kevin Hubbard Award Dan Shore *

* Inaugural winner for exemplary commitment to team and embodying the qualities of a Colt both on and off the pitch.

Page 11 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

Summary: A very long season for the Colts, plagued with injuries and the inconsistency which required the team to constantly have to bounce back and beat the odds. Lutterworth are now considered to be one of if not the premier team in the County. Teams step their games up and with success comes with the great challenges. Internally though the team is strong, unbreakable comradery built from preseason throughout with players supporting one another.

The first half of the season went as well as could be expected, despite the injury bug getting under way, highlighted wins against a select team from Leicestershire U18’s, Market Bosworth in the County Cup Quarter Final, back to back league wins against Syston and Hinckley who were two major rivals in the season, and 2 very big wins against a consistently strong LFE saw the Colts in great position at Christmas to push on. From a push in pre-season and a busy September, Colts weren’t without error, losing to Oadby Wyggs and considerably by a strong Old Northamptonians, it seemed after a big win a loss would soon follow and the team would take a step back. The team dug deep and bounced back leaving the overall squad well prepped for the run in, not just a select 15, all members of the team had to contribute and all had learned a considerable amount. The predominantly younger team had to grow up fast.

In the new year though, the spout of injuries starting with Captain Dan White’s season ending ACL injury meant Colts large squad was put to the test, weekly there were at least 10 unavailable. In years gone past the team may have folded as several other clubs actually did this season but the team was strong in depth. Coupled with support from the U16’s for the midweek U17 County Cup campaign, 6 back to back wins at the end of the season secured a third consecutive League title on the final day beating Melton away with LFE beating Syston on back to back weeks leaving them in second and the previous 1st place Syston in 3rd. The following Wednesday the mix of U16 and U17 beat LFE in the U17 County Cup Final to win the title having previously not entered a team. Then again at Welford Road, Colts showed maturity and rugby class beating rivals Market Harborough to lift the U18 Lawrence Fenton County Cup for the second year running.

A lot of time and effort had been put into the season from everyone, emotionally as well the coaches Marcus Stevens (head), Les Ketteringham (forwards) and Andy Tomlinson (backs) gave so much of their personally time to support and really give the players the support they needed in tough times as well as grounding in the success. Without them the season would not have been half as enjoyable let alone successful.

Thanks go to Mike White for his work on getting us the fixtures and providing the lads with games throughout the season as well as support in other areas, Chris Shore for his support with filming, photography and counsel, all parents for their unwavering support from the first day – being the best supported team home and away, Sam Huckerby and his team of physios Brad Davies, Lauren O’Sullivan and Dan Kendall for keeping us patched up, the senior section for their support with coaching and players for embracing the players especially in the transition game – congratulations on all your seasons achievements– congratulations on your cup win, our main sponsors in Tim Ivens and Glynn Westbury for allowing us to get kit for the season and cup final at Welford Road.

Page 12 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

Finally thanks to our players whom without our team or club would be nothing, it is your work and commitment that create the memories Marc Birr (Leicestershire U18 Head Coach) noted that considering all the adversity with loses and injuries the success is no doubt the greatest he’s seen to date, we’re fortunate that these memories are glossed with silverware and hope that your futures whether it be with the club or in University or in work is just as shiny…

U16 – Head Coach : Nick Hutt

The final year of junior rugby started with some apprehension due to low playing numbers; would we have enough for games particularly with GCSEs looming on the horizon.

Pre season training commenced in mid July to attempt to keep the squad together, interested and more importantly somewhere near a resemblance of fitness but with low numbers throughout the summer (typically only 10-12 players at most) it didn’t look encouraging.

The first game was against Oakham in mid-September, traditionally a team that we should beat, but with only 18 players and several playing out of position we went down at home 12-20. Again the omens for the season weren’t looking good.

A morale boosting thrashing of South Leicester followed two weeks later and by this time we had some familiar faces back plus a couple of new starters (Max and Will). Three more games followed over the next five weeks with mixed results including a combined team with Hinckley against a touring side from Portsmouth.

The first real test came against a strong Harborough side in the county cup first round (at home). However, with only 16 players available and one of those carrying a knock we stuck at it until the last minute and couldn’t quite find a way to get the final score, eventually losing 29-33.

Only two more games followed before Christmas due to weather, unavailability and county trials and we ended the first half of the year as follows:

Played 8 Won 3 Lost 5

The weather again played a major part in disrupting the early part of 2018 and we only managed two games in January before the first highlight of the season arrived – the U16 tour.

Otley RFC had visited us in late March the year before and we received a return invitation to go and play them so our tour committee arranged for a weekend at February half term to travel up and play Otley and Wharfedale on consecutive days. In between the snow, sleet and wind, and despite playing on mudbaths on both days, the lads prevailed in all three games (unbeknown to

Page 13 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC us Wharfedale had also invited Ripon to play us on the Sunday). The rugby they played was beyond anything we (as coaches and parents) had ever seen from this group and the entire squad (all 18) played a huge part in making this a fantastic sign off as junior rugby tourists. A big thank you to all parents who toured and contributed to the entertainment as well.

The tour performances also enabled us to set a further challenge to the squad for the rest of the season with a county plate quarter final looming at the end of February and the target of a third consecutive plate final in April.

Leicester Forest were duly dispatched with ease in the quarter final but the semi final was a different matter; possibly nerves, possibly the size of opposition (were they all U16s?) and simply some poor performances but we scraped through eventually with relief all round on coaches, parents and players alike.

Two further convincing wins as warm up games followed with all of the squad getting an opportunity to stake a claim for the starting line up in the final on 22m April – we had already decided that this was a fitting way to end the season and a bus was quickly arranged for one last Sunday.

Syston had always proved a step too far for Lutterworth over the past few seasons but the confidence the lads had gained from their recent performances seemed to make the difference in the final and we took the honours 30-22 with outstanding performances across the park.

The day was made all the more special with the privilege of sharing a breakfast with the 2nds at the club before their Clonmell Cup final, and then joining in the celebrations at the club on our return which was hugely appreciated by all involved so a special thank you to those who arranged and organized this.

As is traditional for this group, the results post Christmas were far stronger as follows: Played 11 Won 10 Lost 1

Statistics for 2017-2018: Played 19 Won 13 Lost 6 Points for 551 Points against 308 U16 players used 23 U15 players used 3 County Plate Winners Honours: - Leicestershire RU U16 County Squad Members; Arthur Kennedy, Harry Kennedy, Devon Coulson, Sam Burgoine, Oliver Hutt. - Warwickshire RU U16 County Squad Members; Jack Hewitt, Harry Smith.

Page 14 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

Individual Awards: To be distributed at end of season awards on June 22nd at LRFC

It has been a pleasure working with these lads over the past 11 years and I hope that they all retain their interest in the game of rugby at whatever level they can achieve. I look forward to seeing them step up to colts rugby next year (and well done to those who have already been involved towards the end of this year) from my new vantage point away from the coaches area (probably leaning on the bar or somewhere in close proximity).

I’d also like to document my thanks to the following for their support, commitment and enthusiasm without which we would not have had a team and the associated success and enjoyment it has brought to us all as parents.

Thanks - Coaches: Ralph Clews, Barry Morris, Bobby Williams - Manager: Sharon Russell - Medic: Zoe Ridley - Tour Organiser: Neil Ridley

U15 – Manager : Graham Benford

Statistics for 2017-2018 Played 15 Won 12 Lost 3 Team Numbers 30 Achievements: - We currently have 4 players in the Tigers PDG, Oscar Holmes, Harry Read, Conran Butcher and Archie Benford. - Ed Faulds has been part of the Wasps DPP & U15s academy. He played two games for Warkwickshire Schools u15.

A brief run through of our 2017/18 season is as follows;

We have struggled with injury all season, broken bones, concussion and torn ligaments; too many to list. Up to Christmas we had 10 wins and 1 loss.

And Christmas to the end of the season we only played 5 full matches due to pitch conditions, resulting in 2 wins and 3 losses – one of those losses was in the quarter final of the county cup against Loughborough.

We went on tour to Ashford in Kent on the Quins tour, where we won both of our matches – nothing else eventful happened on tour!!.

Page 15 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

The team has around £2800 in the bank and we would like to tour out of season next year to Ireland when all players have finished their GCSE’s

Numbers have grown toward the end of season with a lot of new players arriving from Lutterworth high school – many thanks to Josh Johnson.

We are looking to start pre-season training in August where I am hopeful of 28 players on the books for the new season!

One thing that we would like the clubs help with is an extra fitness training session every week, open to all juniors? I’m sure every team has players who would benefit from this!

U14 – Head Coach : Simon Stacey

Statistics for 2017-2018 Played 18 Won 13 Lost 5 Team Numbers 16 (started with 13)

Achievements: Runners Up at Nuneaton old Ed’s 10’s festival

From the start point of only having 13 players for the first game we finished the season with a squad of 16 and even had a replacement for 1 game. Despite such a small squad (which only suffered one major injury, broken collar bone).

We played 18 games winning 13 and the fact that most of our players played every minute led to a large number improving as players and created a great team spirit. We entered 1 tournament the Nuneaton 10’s where we were beaten by a golden try in the final after winning the 4 previous games.

The key challenge next season is to get 4/5 extra players, something we will be working on over the summer.

U13 – Manager : Katy Urwin

Statistics for 2017-2018 Played 18 Won 6 Lost 11 Team Numbers 24

The Under 13s Season saw them play a lot of away games which resulted in 6 games won, 11 games lost so a mixed season that has been hindered by 2 long term injuries of a dislocated knee and a broken arm both at the start of the season, the arm was a rugby related injury.

Page 16 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

The season has ended with the U13s having a squad of 24 registered players, with three new players picked up this season.

We are lucky to have a good set of volunteers surrounding the players, 2 x first aiders in Sally and Martin, I manage the team and then we have Colin Jones as Head Coach (retiring this season due to his son dropping out) Mitch splits his coaching between the U13 and U15s, Tony Cole who splits his time between the U13s and U10s and Darius McClean, taking over head Coach Duties next season, we welcomed Andy Atwell to the team as a coach when his son joined us from Rugby St Andrews this season. Andy is an asset to the club as he is a qualified coach/ref etc. Mitch also completed his L2 Coaching this year.

The squad had 5 players try out for the Leicester Tigers Developing Player Program and 3 have been selected at this first stage.

The squad toured at the end of the season to Worcester, staying in Malvern and paintballing on the Saturday before heading to Worcester for a game of 10s on the Sunday. A great way to end the season with positive feedback from all coaches, players and parents. On to U14s .....

U12 – Manager : Danny Siddons

Another good year for the under 12s. Our biggest intake of new players in one season. The boys have definitely benefitted from high school rugby as well. All players have developed well as the season has passed. Unfortunately the County Cup final had to be cancelled due to flooding. However to that point we had not lost a game.

Focused coaching from the coaches has increased the skills of the team, with Stuart Chapman completing his level 2 course to which we have benefitted greatly. The boys are looking forward to moving to the Juniors next season.

U11 – Manager : Maddy Simons

The U11s have enjoyed their season although we have struggled with the number of players. However in the last month of the season we have four new players join us for training which is promising for next season. The players and coaches have worked hard on skills and fitness, which unfortunately has not always been reflected in the results. However the team have a great bond and continue to strive to improve. We finished our season with a tour to Bournemouth and as with last season a great time was had by both parents and player on and off the pitch.

Page 17 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

At the end of this season we had to say goodbye to Neve Clerc who has been part of our team since the U7s, we would like to thank Neve for all her hard work over the years and wish her the best of luck with the girls section.

U10 - Manager : Craig Dyke

All the players stepped up again bringing rucks into play meaning the game is more physical and ball in play for longer. 5 new players added to the squad, with a few leavers leaving us at 28 players in total. One of the new players, Henry Watson, received Parents Player of the Year Award with Players Player going to Lewis Lennon and Coaches Player going to Joe Woodward. Big win for the team this year was qualifying for the Shield of the Prima Cup at Welford Road where we made it to the final. Alas were runners up to a very good side from Birmingham.

Introduced Wednesday training this year with focus on skills only which has seen the players develop in their passing as opposed to just head down and run. Weather not helpful this season with many games and training sessions unfortunately called off.

U9 - Manager : Julian Collis

The under 9s this year has had a numbers of highs and lows.

The season successfully introduced the team to tackling and contact. The team took to it very well, with all players enjoying the full contact game more than they did last year with tag. The team is in a good place to move forward next year with rucks, mauls and uncontested scrums.

The squad ended the season with the two fewer players than we had at the end of last year, sixteen. We had two leavers over the summer last year, one new starter at the beginning and one leaver at the end of the season. At the start of next season, we will be looking to grow the squad with targeted marketing in local schools and social clubs.

The weather this year has caused us to miss a number of matches in the middle of the season, we were able to make up some of these at the end of the year, but not as many as we lost.

On the social side, we attended two matches as a team at the Tigers: one as flag wavers and one following a team training and Q&A session with the Tigers. In addition to this, with the under 8’s, we ran a raffle at the club for some signed merchandise from Eddie Jones and the English team.

U8 – Manager : Sarah Harris

The under 8’s have had a great season this year. We have 20 players, of which 8 are girls.

Page 18 of 19 Playing Squad Reports – AGM 2018 Lutterworth RFC

We had a fantastic team day out at the start of the season by being flag bearers for the Leicester Tigers. This season the players have really come together as a team. They have all worked hard to develop their team playing skills and have become aware of their teammates position ready to pass when they have been tagged. They have also worked on looking for spaces when they have the ball. We have 3 brilliant coaches supporting the team.

Off the pitch the team helped Santa & his sleigh at Christmas and had a very muddy end of season team trip to the obstacle gym. Parents have been amazing with supporting kitchen duty & our team fundraising. We raised enough money to buy every player a training top for next season.

Next season the team will face the new challenge of starting contact. Some are excited and some are understandably nervous. The coaches are already thinking about how we can support them all as we move forward next season.

** end **

Page 19 of 19