Captain's Blog

Having played in the Whitgift 1st XV for the previous two years, I have come to realise not only what a huge privilege it is to represent the school at the highest level but the responsibilities that also come in doing so. In amongst the responsibility, the enjoyment that I personally along with many others have gained from both the rugby and the general culture of rugby at Whitgift has been fantastic. If the last two years are anything to go by then this tour and year ahead will be enjoyable throughout.

I think I speak on behalf of all those involved in saying that we are all incredibly fortunate to being going on tour this summer, let alone to Australia. This tour will provide us all with an experience of a lifetime and one that hopefully we will never forget. It is very unlikely that many of us will ever get to visit Australia again, and almost certain that we wont be given the chance to play against some of the top Australian schools. This will give us the chance to test our rugby skills against some of the best young rugby players in Australia which I’m sure I’m not alone in saying is very exciting in itself. We are also fortunate enough to be hosted by a few of the schools which will give us the opportunity to experience the culture first hand and potentially develop lasting friendships with the opposition.

In terms of tour aims, the five specified aims are obviously the priorities, but rugby aside; I feel that developing the right team culture on tour is crucial. This culture will play a huge part throughout the season and there is no better place to start connecting as a team than on tour. The tour will bring out the characters within the group as well as giving those who potentially have taken a slight backseat up until now a chance to be themselves. It will also allow current friendships amongst the team to strengthen and more importantly new friendships to develop. Forming these new friendships are more important when two new year groups come together for the first time; and we couldn’t ask for better surroundings in which to do this. This is imperative as within a successful team; no one individual is more important than any other and, along with hard work, is one of Wilko’s main focuses within a team.

The tour should aim to get us a step ahead of those teams we are due to play at the beginning of the season. The five games, regardless of the score lines, will test us both mentally and physically as a squad, especially the middle week where we have 3 games within 5 days as well as providing us that match practice that cannot be replicated within training sessions. It doesn’t just give the boys an opportunity to develop as individuals and as a team but also gives the coaches a chance to form friendships with the boys and progress as coaches.

I’m sure I’m not alone in saying that I really am very excited and wish all the best to all those going on tour.


Harry