Rugby Review of the Year 2024/25

The 2024-5 academic year was another outstanding one for rugby at Churcher’s College. It was inspiring to see the pitches active with so many pupils representing the school with pride, energy and commitment. From U12A-D all the way to our senior squads, the breadth of participation has never been stronger. This is testament to the dedication of both players and coaches across all year groups.

Churcher’s rugby continues to be played with pace, adventure and ambition, underpinned by ever-improving sportsmanship and game management. Pupils consistently looked to play what was in front of them, adapt to changing situations and express themselves both individually and as teams - something that brought real joy to coaches and spectators alike.

From a performance perspective, this year has been exceptional. Out of 115 matches played across all teams, 75 were won, 7 drawn and 33 lost, giving us a win ratio of 65% - a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the hard work across the programme. Notably, five teams recorded 100% win records, two teams achieved 80%+, one team reached 70%, and four teams finished with a 50% win ratio.

It was a pleasure to welcome St Benedict’s School to the fixture card, with memorable and closely contested matches across several year groups. This alongside our regular block fixtures with some truly memorable fixtures - particularly the senior draw against an unbeaten Worth School (22–22), a highlight of the term!

U12 Rugby

Our First Years enjoyed a successful debut season, showing great development across all four teams (A-D). The U12A team played nine matches, winning five, drawing one, and losing three, with solid performances that reflected growing tactical awareness. The U12B team had an outstanding campaign, going unbeaten in eight matches with seven wins and one draw, scoring 235 points and conceding just 100.

The U12C team faced a tougher challenge, winning two of five matches while continuing to build important skills for future seasons. The U12D team competed in two matches with one win and one loss, showing plenty of spirit despite a negative points difference. Selection flexibility across the squads ensured strong player development and high participation throughout the season.

Overall, the positivity and progress across the U12 teams highlight a bright future for the year group. Their enthusiasm and commitment promise continued growth and success in the seasons to come.

U13 Rugby

Building on their first year in the Senior School, the U13s made remarkable progress throughout the season. The U13A team secured five wins, one draw, and two losses, scoring 165 points and conceding 110, while the U13B team dominated with seven wins from eight matches, boasting an impressive 87.5% win rate and a remarkable points difference of +230. The U13C team also performed strongly, winning two out of three matches and maintaining a positive points difference.

This outstanding season is a testament to their growth in skill, teamwork, and confidence, setting a high standard for the challenges ahead. The players’ enthusiasm and attacking flair made every game a joy to watch. As they prepare for the transition to the 15-a-side game next year, anticipation is high for continued success.

U14 Rugby

The U14s had a competitive and rewarding season marked by impressive performances and strong team spirit. The A squad kicked off the campaign with a challenging away fixture at Lord Wandsworth College, losing 33-57. Undeterred, the team quickly bounced back with commanding wins away at The Portsmouth Grammar School (55-12), St Benedict’s School (40-10), and at home versus Pangbourne College with a dominant 55-0 victory. The squad maintained their excellent form with victories against Wimbledon College (29-14), The Oratory School (24-7), and Halliford School (26-0). A hard-fought 19-19 draw at home to John Fisher School showcased their resilience, while a tight 18-21 loss to Worth School was a closely contested encounter. The U14B team also had a strong season, playing seven matches with five wins and two losses, scoring a total of 234 points and conceding 120, resulting in an impressive points difference of +114. Both squads demonstrated growing tactical awareness, solid defence, and an exciting attacking game that bodes well for their continued development. A special highlight was the U14s’ spirited showing at the Rosslyn Park National 7s for the first time.

U15 Rugby

The U15s experienced a varied season that provided both valuable lessons and promising moments. Across their 11 matches, the squad secured 4 wins, 2 draws, and 5 losses, scoring 215 points and conceding 234, resulting in a narrow points difference of -19. Notable victories came against Pangbourne College, The Oratory School, Halliford School, and Worth School, with each win showcasing the team’s attacking potential and improving game understanding. The group continue to make excellent progress. Both the A and B teams demonstrated commendable determination and team spirit throughout. The B team had some excellent performances, finishing with a 71.4% win rate. The season also marked a significant step forward in technical development, with the introduction of lineout lifting and more structured set-piece play, laying important foundations for future progression as they move into the senior phase of rugby at Churcher’s.

U16 Rugby

The U16A team enjoyed an excellent season, playing 13 matches, winning 11 and losing just 2, with standout performances throughout. Early victories against Lord Wandsworth College (31–22), PGS (47–7), St Benedict’s (68–38), and The Oratory School (26–19) showcased their attacking intent and growing confidence. Their only defeats came in a tough fixture against John Fisher School and in the County Cup Final, where they were beaten 47–26 by a strong LWC side. A successful cup run, including wins over Salesian College and Worth School, highlighted their resilience and tactical maturity. The U16Bs also had a competitive season, playing 6 matches and finishing with 3 wins and 3 losses, scoring 149 points and conceding 119, with a positive points difference of +30. Across both teams, there was clear progress in set-piece execution, defensive organisation, and attacking structure. The year group has developed into a cohesive and capable unit, laying a strong foundation for the transition into senior rugby next season.

Senior Rugby

A landmark year for the senior squads. Collectively, the 1st XV and 2nd XV played 20 matches, winning 13 and losing 7.

The 1st XV had an excellent season, finishing with 8 wins, 1 draw and just 2 losses - both of which were extremely close. They scored 309 points while conceding only 145, resulting in a superb points difference of +164. Noteworthy victories included a narrow win over St Benedict’s (15-14), a dominant display against PGS (42-3), and a memorable 22–22 draw with an unbeaten Worth School in a thrilling contest.

Perhaps more important than the statistics was the camaraderie and spirit within the squad. With over 60 pupils involved and several returning to the game after time away, it was a term filled with smiles, expression, and unity.

Churcher’s Rugby continues to go from strength to strength. The blend of competitive success, development focus, and inclusive ethos ensures that the sport remains a cornerstone of school life. With such strong foundations and an enthusiastic body of players and coaches, the future of Churcher’s rugby looks very bright indeed.

It has also been exciting to see girls’ rugby continue to grow this year. A committed group of around 15 girls trained regularly, showing excellent enthusiasm and development throughout the term. We were also delighted to welcome The Petersfield School’s girls’ team to join us at training, helping to build further momentum and community around the game.

Ben Skirving