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Last week, we had the pleasure of welcoming pupils, parents and staff from a fantastic group of prep schools to this year’s U11 Prep School Rugby Festival. Teams from Thomas’s Fulham, Thomas’s Clapham, Caldicott, St Paul’s, Hoe Bridge, Amesbury, Hall Grove, Wellington College Prep, Ludgrove and Newland House filled Bigside with outstanding displays of skill, athleticism and teamwork. As ever, the true highlight of the day was the exemplary sportsmanship shown by every young player who took part.
It is inspiring to imagine that many of these talented pupils will return to Bigside in the years ahead—some donning the Wellington College colours, others arriving as friendly rivals.
We extend our sincere thanks to all the schools who took part, helping to maintain this festival’s reputation as one of the most eagerly anticipated and best-attended events of its kind.
Master James Dahl shared his reflections on this wonderful tradition:
“Our annual Prep School Rugby Festival has long been a favourite fixture in the sporting calendar, and it is always a joy to watch the next generation of rugby talent emerge.
Sport teaches invaluable life lessons: how to win with humility, lose with grace, collaborate as a team, and bounce back from adversity. It helps shape character, instils discipline, and nurtures resilience, qualities that reach far beyond the pitch. Long may this tradition continue!”
Dan Pratt, Director of Sport, echoed these sentiments, celebrating the day’s success:
“The U11 Prep School Rugby Festival remains a real highlight for us. True to the spirit of the festival, there was no overall winner, but all ten teams brought tremendous energy, enthusiasm and passion for the game. A huge thank you to everyone who made the day possible, here’s to many more festivals to come!”
Special Mentions
Try of the Tournament: Awarded to a pupil from Newland House
Player of the Tournament: Awarded to a pupil from Caldicott
A heartfelt thank you also goes to the staff, referees, and grounds team who worked tirelessly to deliver another superb festival. Their commitment ensured every participant enjoyed a brilliant day of rugby and camaraderie.
