After a great and steady build-up throughout the spring term, Rosslyn Park Week was finally upon us. This week offered a refreshing change of pace, allowing players to enjoy each other’s company by staying together the night before their respective matches.
U18s Report
The U18s were the first to take the field. Facing unknown opposition in Brentwood and Birkdale, the boys showed great composure, stuck to our game plan, and secured two strong wins. Our final pool match was against a very strong Ampleforth side. Initially going down by two tries, the boys rallied with remarkable bravery, courage, and determination, not just rugby ability, to pull off a thrilling comeback and take a tight win.
There was little time to celebrate, however, as we faced Caterham in the qualifying match. Caterham, having breezed through their pool, presented a formidable challenge. With the younger players pitch-side to cheer them on, the seniors battled hard in a first half that ended evenly. Despite a brave effort in the second half, the emotional and physical toll from the earlier Ampleforth game saw us narrowly miss progressing.
This U18 group has come on leaps and bounds and should be immensely proud of their achievements.
U14s Report
Moving on to our U14s, as with any new year group, there was uncertainty around what to expect. However, this squad had been quietly building through pre-RP tournaments, and their hard work came to fruition in London.
Placed in a group with Eastbourne, Hymers College, and Queen’s College Taunton, the boys advanced to the qualifying match conceding only one try and playing an exciting running game. In the qualifying match, they met a powerful Brynteg side from Wales, who exposed some gaps in our defence and deservedly took the win, leaving our boys a little sheepish after Day 1.
Thanks to the tournament structure, the U14s still had a shot in the Plate competition. Day 2 saw them face Grey Court, Ratcliffe, and the mighty Wellington College. These were tighter, tougher fixtures, but our boys rose to the occasion, winning by a single point against Grey Court and delivering one of the performances of the year by beating Wellington College, a first for this age group since we formed. A fantastic reflection of their spirit and commitment.
In the quarterfinal against Torquay Boys Grammar, the match became an instant classic, with both sides trading scores. Just as extra time seemed inevitable, Torquay snatched a try on the final play to end our campaign. Although deflated, the pride in this group is immense, especially considering they have only been together for eight weeks. Well done, boys!
U16s Report
The U16s faced Bromsgrove, Cantonian High School, and our local friends Clayesmore in their pool. Bromsgrove proved too strong initially, but the boys responded brilliantly by toppling Cantonian with belief and intent.
The final match against Clayesmore was a fierce local derby, with both sides showing intense competitive spirit. After a balanced first half, we were reduced to six players early in the second half. Yet, in a remarkable display of heart, the boys refused to give up, showing immense resilience and teamwork, efforts that embody everything our rugby club stands for. Although they were narrowly beaten in the final play, their performance was truly inspirational.
Special mention must go to the five U15 players who stepped up into the U16 squad: Alfie Dixon, Will Dawson, Kieron Sharp, Teddy Tadman, and Aidan Stevens. They have helped place this age group in a strong position for the years to come.
U11s Report
Our U11s closed the show for Team Bryanston on Friday, making a little piece of history as the first Bryanston Prep team to feature at the festival. Our young ‘cubs’ showed huge resilience and a touch of flair as they threw themselves into some fantastic games of rugby, sharing the ball in attack and tackling hard in defence. The only Dorset school to feature in the U11 competition, the boys finished with two wins and three narrow losses from their five games, to finish 4th in their group and – more importantly – took away memories that will last for many years to come. Roll on, Rosslyn 2026!
Final Reflections
Post-RP, we reflect not only on the boys’ development but also on ourselves as coaches. We can wholeheartedly say we supported these youngsters every step of the way. However, the real credit belongs to the players – their hard work, resilience, and desire to improve have been the driving force behind our success.
Finally, an enormous thank you to all the Bear Rugby Club family, coaches, support staff, friends, and even pets, for making Rosslyn Park 2025 an incredible experience. What began way back in Autumn 2024 has laid the foundations for an exciting future at Bryanston.
by Nick Williams, Head of Rugby, and Josie Rixon, Head of Prep Sport
