Rugby Report

Rugby is a sport that is hugely popular in GMS. In the initial few weeks of the autumn term the school had already built a squad of 23: a mix of experienced rugby players and those new to the game. Sports staff are impressed by the speed, athleticism and skill of all the members.

In KS3, what better start to the season could be imagined than a superb unbeaten record, including a 10-0 win over local rivals?

This next half term promises to be particularly exciting as the boys embark upon a weekly tournament lasting four weeks rivalling Berkshire schools. The GMS rugby team were approached and asked to compete in this competition because they were considered to be a have prestigious rugby status. Last year the team finished 3rd against some outstanding competition. This year’s U12 team are keen match or beat this achievement.

Of course, to compete at a high standard, students have to be trained by experts. In GMS teacher and trainer Mr Goodright is ably assisted by expert rugby player and Year 12 student Will Drewitt.

Rugby in Year 8 continues to have a strong following as the squad builds on the strengths of the Year 7 training and successes on the field of play. Week after week the lads have worked hard to improve their game by adapting their skill, knowledge and expertise to the 13 a side game: a move from the 10 a side game played by the Year 7s.

A first tough fixture, against a Berkshire team called Piggotts, demonstrated that GMS have a Year 8 squad with a strong, determined core, who remained undeterred right up to the final moments.

Another difficult battle ensued against a strong side from another Berkshire team, Furze Platt. In this encounter both teams were equally matched: GMS were technically and tactically better, however, Furze Platt were athletically bigger and stronger. A brilliant game of rugby ensued, with end to end play and some significant physical battles, ending in a 10- 10 draw.

The Year 8 side are coached by Mr Goodright and Freddie Lewis: a sixth former, who continues to show a natural aptitude for this particular sport. His assistance is very much appreciated by the students and staff.

1st XV Rugby

The top standard in GMS rugby is the First XV team. This group were entered into the prestigious Natwest National Cup Competition.

After a tough first round against a skilled and talented Claire’s Court, GMS were beaten and placed in the Bowl Competition. Next, GMS played John Hampden Grammar School (JHGS). Sadly, the team from up the hill were more organised and better versed, so despite a competitive game GMS sustained a second loss. Credit must go to the boys, who never gave up, remained committed to the task, and played with 100% commitment to the very end. Not winning leads to success in the longer term, because the boys have decided they need to train more smartly and work on their set piece play. They are now looking forward to their forthcoming Wednesday fixtures.