Grosvenor In View Magazine 2025

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and performed as best we could against excellent opposition. It was clear why Rainey would become Schools’ Cup semi-finalists, and they gave us a lesson in aggressive and fast rugby. With this loss, we moved into the Schools’ Bowl. Our draw in the Schools’ Bowl saw us pitted against Strabane Academy. We travelled up in late January and produced our best attacking display of the season, enjoying most of the possession to win 38-3. It was fantastic to see our attacking shape click together finally, resulting in some wonderful team scores. Our progression meant we drew Ballyclare High School in the Quarter Final of the Bowl. Alas, we were significantly outmatched by Ballyclare, ending our season with a significant loss at home; in truth we didn’t fire a shot in the game, and Ballyclare were deserving winners. As always, we have Year 14 players leaving the program, my hope is that they continue to play rugby after school in the adult club game and remember their time in school rugby with fondness. Year 14 Leavers: Sam Neill: Sam moved permanently to rugby in Year 13, being quickly thrown in at the deep end as a dynamic back row player. Sam possessed excellent acceleration and ball carrying skills, whilst developing the other sides of his game at a rapid rate. James Wright: James is an extremely talented player across the back row and hooker. His aggression when carrying was a significant weapon for us. A 3 year starter for the 1 st XV, James made an impact from his Year 12 to Year 14. I have no doubt he can be successful in the adult club game, if he continues to strive to improve. Noah Burcombe: Noah was a 1 st XV squad member for three seasons, playing across all positions in the forwards. Noah is very well mannered young man, who was a pleasure to coach. He will be remembered for his aggressive tackling style, with very little regard for his own body! Stefan Buick: Stefan was a 3 year starter for the 1 st XV, with most of his time being at centre, however, he was equally accomplished across the back three. Stefan’s pace was his main weapon, often leaving defenders scrambling, or shooting out of the line to make a dominant tackle. Oliver Bradley: Oliver returned to rugby after some time away in his Year 13 and he progressed even further in his last year. Oliver offered an elusive option in the Back 3, with his deceptive pace and agility allowing him to beat defenders regularly. Owen Boyd: Owen never stopped working on his game, especially his attacking skills, and finally announced himself as a 1 st XV starter this season. Owen consistently worked himself to a standstill in matches

and no one could question his commitment to his school and teammates. Ben Rea: Ben fully committed himself to rugby this season and began to deliver on his potential, finishing the year as the most improved player. Ben played across the backline, and brought an edge and physicality to the unit, with his performances going from strength to strength throughout the year. Robin Cooper: Robin packed down at tight head prop and offered us a dependable and reliable ball carrying option throughout the year. Robin’s strength in the set piece should stand him in good stead as he goes forward into the club game. Shea Taggart: Shea was a 3 year member of the 1 st XV, joining the “40 Cap Club” at the beginning of the season. Shea provided a reliable kicking option from Full Back, as well as taking on goal kicking duties throughout the season. Harley Huntley: Harley was a very hard working winger, who could always be relied upon to give his all for the team. He is undoubtably a better rugby player than he gives himself credit for, and I hope going forward he can play with the confidence and assuredness that I know is within him. James Cusin: James stepped into the role of Captain at a difficult time of the season, and he conducted himself with class and maturity. James has been a member of the 1 st XV for 3 seasons, playing across the front row and second row, joining the “40 Cap Club” late in the season. James was the glue that held the squad together and he is an example of a fine young man. Harvey Moore: Harvey was Mr Dependable. He never missed training sessions and was regularly first out on the pitch. Harvey’s time in the senior squad was not easy, often with others being selected ahead of him. Despite this, his enthusiasm never waned and he was a highly valued member of the squad. My thanks to Mr Thompson, who joined me on the senior coaching panel this season. Mr Thompson brings endless enthusiasm and drive to see the players succeed; he’s a straight shooter, who is willing to say what needs to be said and he was invaluable to me over the course of the season. Thank you to the players, who continued to persevere despite numerous difficulties and distractions through the season. To those returning next year, my hope is that we can pull together once again and begin the process of building the 1 st XV back up again! Player of the Season: Ewan Roberts Most Improved: Ben Rea Mr M McDowell

GROSVENOR IN VIEW > 2024/25