“RN (W) HEAD COACHE'S RFU (W) SOUTH REGION CROWNED AS REGIONAL CHAMPIONS FOR 200
On a warm Easter day at Grasshoppers RFC, West London the RFUW Senior Regional Finals were held on Saturday 21st March, and after three rounds of matches, the four top teams were invited to play off for the Final standings. The 2008 winners, West Midlands once again topped the table and went straight into the Final against the South Region coached by PO Log (Pers) Dave Garner (HMS DAUNTLESS) After a brief hold up, with the Referee highlighting a clash of shirts, the South Region ended up playing in green and white quarters (South West colours) instead of their traditional (Blue and Yellow). Would this prove an unlucky omen? Not the case, as the South Region opened the scoring in the first few minutes, which somewhat shocked the West Midlands into action. The first half was end to end rugby, which saw some great skills and plenty of hard hits by both teams, highlighting why both teams were deserving finalists. However, the South came out of the blocks in the second half, applying pressure from the off. West Midlands threw everything at the South to try and back into the game, but South’s Defence stood strong. The South eventually turned defence into attack, and as West Midlands tired, scored two further tries. The South region eventually ran out 22-10 winners, and in doing so put an end to West Midlands run of four consecutive titles! South and Royal Navy Women’s coach Dave Garner commented “To achieve what we have achieved is great news for all involved with South Region, especially after the Region missed out in the finals last year. I know the South region has definitely benefited from the Coaching Development and support that I have received from the RNRU. Here’s hoping we retain the trophy next year!” The South Region were presented with their medals and Winners trophy at half-time of the England v Scotland Women’s 6 Nations Match at London Welsh, by RFUW President Gill Burns, RFUW Chair Debs Griffen and the Mayor of Richmond. (Photo’s to follow) In the 3rd v 4th Play-Off, LOGS (Pers) Charlie Lewis (HMS NEPTUNE) North East region travelled down to take on locals Thames Valley. In a high-scoring affair, sadly Charlie’s team lost out as the Thames Valley team won 38-27. Both games were high-intensity and showcased a number of players who will progress through to the Summer High Performance Academies and into the Super Fours in August for England selection. Next year’s competition promises much, as more talented new players come through the Programme every year. All at Navy Rugby wish to congratulate both Dave and Charlie, and hope they both have the same success in the Inter Services for the RN (W). Get Involved! If you’d like to be involved in the Regional Programme as a Player, Volunteer, Coach or Medic, or if your Club would like to host training or matches, please contact clarecooper@rfu.com for further information.