Navy Captains to Lead Sides Against RAF Announced
With their opening fixture just a few days away the RNRU Senior sides have announced who will lead the Senior Service against the youngest arm of the UK Armed Forces.
Leading Hand Rose Dixon will look to inspire the women following her onto the pitch in London on Saturday in a match that the Navy will be desperate to win in order to set the tone prior to their historic first match at Twickenham. Head Coach Lieutenant Commander Charlie Fredrickson will be hoping previous experience will help settle the team as it will be the second time the Chobham RFC player will have led the Dark Blue in an inter-service game. The RAF lost a bruising contest to the Army in their opening fixture, it didn't help that they weren't able to call on their England International Flying Officer Amy Cockayne, so they will be looking for retribution.
Rose said, "It’s a massive honour to be selected to captain such a talented group of rugby players against the RAF this Saturday. we’re expecting a very physical performance from the RAF but are incredibly excited to showcase our talents with everything we’ve been working hard on in camp and bring a huge energy to the game. It’s going to be a great fixture and after the 2 year break we’re all raring to go!"
Having captained the side throughout 2022, Lieutenant Jarrard Hayler will mark his 11th Navy cap with it being the first as captain. The Havant native is currently based in the South West as a new entry Troop Commander at the Commando Training Centre in Lympstone and is playing his civilian rugby with Taunton Titans. Jarrard is aware of the good feeling the last two wins against Chinnor and the British Police have brought to the squad. He said, "The team is really positive and there's a very good buzz around the camp at the moment. The RAF are going to be physical and tough but we have prepared well and are confident going into Saturday. I absolutely cannot wait to get our 2022 campaign underway"
Tickets for the match at the ground of Ealing Trailfinders are still available here, whilst those that cannot attend the match in person can watch live coverage from Forces TV who are streaming the match on their facebook page, Facebook.com/ForcesTV
The Royal Navy Mariners will kick off the day in Ealing against their Over 35s counterparts, The RAF Vultures. Leading Air Engineering Technician Paul Saberton will lead the Royal Navy Mariners. Leading by example throughout the season thus far Paul is itchig to take the field against the RAF Vultures, he said "“To lead the Mariners for this season’s Inter Service campaign is a huge honour and something I am very proud of. We have built nicely throughout the season and with new players coming of age we have real strength in depth going into the tournament. There is a real buzz around the squad and confidence is very high for this weekend's game."