True to form, the 'pitches' were very wet and boggy at Harrogate last week for the NY district festival. The kids persevered and played some good rugby though despite running uphill through mud! The trophy winners for last week were Luca Francisco, Charlie Littlefair and Seb Auld. Everyone - parents, kids and coaches all deserve thanks for their support on mornings like that.

This week we were away at West Park, Coach Ben sent in a report.

Another well attended Sunday morning with Wetherby U8's fielding 24 children to West Park's 12, a very encouraging number for an away fixture (thank you to all parents and fellow coaches for your continued support). Equally encouraging was seeing Sonny and William back playing again, we hope they continue as both are promising rugby players.
Despite the confusing 3G pitch having more white markings than the A1 Wetherby turn off and West Park arriving late, the children coped really well and played some great running rugby.

In my group:
Romilly ran fast & hard and tagged like a demon! Thomas impressed me with his reading of the game, spatial awareness and positioning. Charlie Marston has grown in confidence and has developed a real turn of pace. Charlie Langford nearly scored two tries in the same run (I've never witnessed that before). Sonny tagged and passed well and can be a real threat when he runs forward. William has wonderful balance with the ball in hand and can change direction at pace and Alex, in his first season, showed he too has the speed and determination needed to be a great rugby player.

We have an enthusiastic crop of young rugby players who are developing each week. As they become more familiar with the basics I'm looking forward to seeing how they adapt to passing more to enable their team mates to run into space. Trophy winners from Sunday were William Lakin, Angus McMillan and Romilly Whiting.