Longlevens RFC: Off to Twickenham?

At the Longlevens Rugby Club we have a similar story for the 1st XV team are through to the semi- finals of the National Junior Vase; a competition open to the leading teams, representing each County in England. Longlevens became Gloucestershire County Champions back in October last year and since then they have beaten the representative Club teams from Somerset, Cornwall and Wiltshire to become champions and representatives of the South West Area.

On Easter Saturday, April 19th, the Club is to play away at the London Area champions, Battersea in the semi- final. The match is expected to be an epic encounter with both teams playing for the opportunity to play in the final at Twickenham in May. Over 200 supporters will make the journey, all with the same aim: to see their team reach the Vase final!

The squad has a good blend of youth and experience, and is made up predominantly of players who have progressed through the club’s junior ranks to the senior squad. Of these, there are 6 young players who are in the 17 -19 years of age group; including Team Captain Jed Jones, who leads the team, both by example and authority. Jack Beck, Ross Preedy and Oliver Deacon are tremendous young players, whose fathers have also, represented Longlevens RFC. Club President Rich Yorke has sons Mike and Harrison in the team, whilst in Tom Griffiths; they have an England International at U16 level. These players certainly endorse the success of the clubs Youth policy!

Richard Rudge, the 1st team Player Coach, U14 Coach and Club Chairman has been associated with the rugby club for over 30 years, since joining as a junior at 12 years old. Richard is tremendously proud of their achievement, but he too would love his team to play at Twickenham and allow this team to demonstrate just some of its potential. I’m sure we all (footballers included) wish everyone at Longlevens RFC every success in their Semi Final and hope that they achieve their ambition and reach the Twickenham final.

Finally, how fortunate we are as a community, to have such successful sporting teams in Longlevens. With both Football and Rugby Clubs enjoying success, and demonstrating that they can each provide a platform for all budding players to achieve their full potential within the sport of their choice under the Supervision of Qualified and Experienced coaches.