We traveled to Saracens last weekend with a depleted squad due to the twin scourges of (i) Omicron and (ii) and an early start. Nevertheless, the children performed heroically in some fiercely contested and competitive matches. We all understand that the children are coming to terms with the new rules but it was interesting to see how the refereeing was also similarly affected (before you ask, not our illustrious Minis' Chairman's performance!) The children behaved themselves immaculately despite these issues, which largely centered on the number of players permitted to enter the breakdown (the laws say just one at this age group) and were outnumbered in the loose on many occasions. As anyone who follows rugby knows, Saracens have been known to take a flexible approach to the rules but in this case it was simply unfamiliarity and nothing more sinister! An interesting point to take on board about adapting our play to the refereeing.

Next week we travel to Aylesbury RFC for another joint training/friendly fixture starting at 0900 . Please provide your availability via Pitchero.

We have our home development festival on 06 March which is intended for our developing players who will benefit most from competitive matches against teams of similar abilities. We hope that the balance of the players will be able to play an away fixture against another local club on that day, or else train at a different location. Please use Pitchero to confirm your availability and we will confirm which players have been selected to compete at which venue nearer the time.

Anyone booked to go on our end of season tour should by now have received final payment details and kit details. If you have any questions please contact Coach Jennie on 07894 293905.

Finally, England Rugby is conducting a survey to get a better understanding of how the game is evolving and how it can continue to meet the demands of the rugby community. We encourage you to complete the survey in conjunction with your children by following this link.

Hope to see you all on Sunday at Aylesbury.