Two promising Shiplake rugby players have been
rewarded for their fine form this season with call-ups to the England Independent
Schools ‘Lambs’ set up. Sixth Former Ruairi Van Raalte has been selected for
the U18 national side after impressing in a rigorous trials process, while Year
8 youngster Jerome Rocks will represent the South East U13 Lambs team, with a
view to earning a spot on the national tour to Dublin in late March.
Founded in 2006, The Lambs
exists to create openings for boys to showcase their rugby skills at a
representative level when they have been unable to do so due to other
commitments or lack of selection opportunities.
Their philosophy is explained as: ‘The freedom to express talent, unfettered by league results and
structured 'coaching', leads to a style of play which excites players, their
parents and supporters of the game. The Independent Schools RFC was set up to
promote traditional rugby values and a 'Corinthian' spirit as our style: this
is to play unreserved 'heads up' running rugby in a fast and expansive style,
which is player rather than coach-led.’
Along with some of his
teammates, Ruairi attended the first stage of the selection process on December
11, at the south east regional trials. The successful players then took on
their counterparts from the South West in another trial match in early January.
After playing well again in that fixture, Ruairi progressed to the final stage
of the trials at Esher Rugby Club, where he played for the South Lambs against
the North. After setting up a number of tries, it was an easy decision for the
coaches to include him in the national squad.
After coming off the bench in
their first fixture against the RFU Midlands Division, where the Lambs launched
a fantastic comeback from 0-21 down to almost clinch victory on the last play,
Ruairi has been selected to start at hooker in the next fixture on Sunday 1
February against the Irish Exiles.
Headmaster Mr Gregg Davies
commented: ‘Ruairi’s call up to the England Lambs set up is testament to the
hard work he has put in on and off the pitch over the last few years. His
strength, power and ability to make incisive runs give him the versatility to
play in a number of positions. This will make him a valuable member of the
squad, and I am sure he will continue working hard to cement a place in the
team for the upcoming Lambs fixtures. All at Shiplake are extremely proud of
Ruairi’s achievements so far, and we hope he is able to continue his impressive
progression all the way up to an elite rugby level in the future.’
Regarding Jerome’s progress, Head of Rugby Mr Sam Beckett added: ‘Jerome’s
handling and physical qualities have impressed myself and Mr Gaunt during
training and matches this season. He has often played one year group above his
own age and won man of the match awards, demonstrating his great potential. If
he maintains a dedicated attitude towards rugby he could certainly go a long
way in the game.’