Rugby 1st XV
(1970-71)

In terms of results, the 1970/71 season was a poor one, yet in other aspects, effort, team spirit and individual performance, points not as noticeable as facts and figures, the School had great success.

Throughout the entire season a consistent effort was maintained by both regular and reserve players. This common effort removed the burden from individuals and was the deciding factor in the creditable victory at Solihull School and the narrow defeats by St. Benedicts and Rainey Endowed School. This overall keen approach adopted by the boys during the matches acted as a compensating factor for the rather obvious lack of experience. It is perhaps a great pity that more parents could not have shown the same degree of keenness and turned out to watch the School teams.

The crop of good young players owed its success to Mr. Gibson who devoted much attention to the younger boys, and greatly improved the standard of boys such as Tim Bond. Dave Hughes, and Roger Plowman. These three players gave sterling service throughout the season and more than adequately made the step up from Colts to Senior Rugby. If their interest and confidence can be maintained and strengthened, they should prove valuable assets to future school teams.

Mention must be given to the other end of the age scale. The older lads, all of whom have given me their support throughout the season must be credited. Although several will have left in the summer, I should like to thank Brian Dimmock. Graham James, Martin McClelland, Graham Parish and Richard Smith, for their help and advice.

Many of last year's team will be returning for 1971-72 and these should be the nucleus for a very successful team, Special mention must be given to both Michael Barber and Christopher Szelewski whose experience, combined with the tricky genius of "Fabs" Liebling will be invaluable. Chris played a few games for the county U-19 team, and if he can "keep his cool" this coming season should do exceptionally well. Mick Barber should also make this year's county side.

The onus therefore will be on those experienced team members to shield the younger boys, and keep up the good team spirit that exists. This can only be achieved by regular squad training in which the basics must not be forgotten. Tackling, on the whole, was weak last season and resulted in many tries bring scored against us. I would like to thank Mr. Gibson on behalf of the team for his faith and energy throughout the season. I hope sincerely that next year's team and Mr. Gibson have the success they deserve.

DEREK WARBY M6A