Derwen College students had plenty to celebrate after winning their first ever competitive rugby match as part of Oswestry Rugby Club’s mixed‑ability team, The Flying Eagles. They won in a thrilling, close-fought game against Colwyn Bay Stingrays.
Six students – Ash, Toby, CJ, Jake, Evan and Jonathan – took to the pitch in Oswestry colours, cheered on by a healthy crowd of supporters.
The final score was 58-55, with The Flying Eagles celebrating a hard-fought win. Jonny and Toby each scored two tries, with CJ kicking four conversions. CJ went on to be named man of the match.
David Roberts, coach for The Flying Eagles, said it was a ‘privilege’ to play alongside such dedicated players.
“We have run some rugby sessions for Derwen College students historically but this year decided to take the next step in creating a team where the students could enjoy the game fully. This led to us setting up our mixed ability team, The Flying Eagles. We now have 29 players in the squad, including Derwen College students.It’s a privilege to be in a team with them. It’s breathed new life into a lot of players who thought their playing days were over (me included!).
“The game was a huge success and Derwen College students absolutely smashed it. They went from nervous and unsure of playing to playing a huge part in the game, refusing to come off and even making full tackles. They also featured heavily on the score sheet.”
“Mixed‑ability rugby is an inclusive, contact format open to players aged 18+ of all abilities, with disabled and non‑disabled individuals playing together. It focuses on social inclusion and camaraderie, with minor adjustments like uncontested scrums and modified levels of contact.”
Great occasion for College
Derwen College Activity Coordinator Ben Leonard also got stuck in as part of the team.
He said: “As far as we are aware, this is the first ever rugby match that Derwen College students have been involved in, so it’s a great occasion for the College.”
“In preparation for this match, our students have been attending mixed ability rugby training at Oswestry rugby club every Thursday evening since last September and their hard work has paid off with them all putting in fantastic performances. I couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of them!
Ben added: “A huge thank you to everyone at Oswestry Rugby Club for welcoming our students and giving them the opportunity to be part of such a fantastic day. The students and I have loved it and can’t wait to get involved again.”
Images supplied thanks to Gary Williams Photography and Barbara Roberts
