Devizes RFC

Devizes RFC U14s have had an outstanding year, building on what was already a fantastic year as U13s.  The team has achieved an unprecedented feat in becoming the only team ever to win their age-grade Dorset and Wilts Cup two years in succession, across all age groups. U13s Dorset and Wiltshire Champions are now the U14s Champions!

Across 2 years, the team has in fact only lost one competitive fixture, and continues to set the standard for mini and midi club rugby across both counties, despite the presence of some great clubs and teams.

With an amazing spirit, team cohesion and willingness to support each other, the team has managed to not only retain players, but attract new ones to the club. Word has spread around the local schools and players are keen to join. There are now 34 registered players at this age group, which is remarkable for a relatively small Wiltshire town. Blessed with continuity of coaching, the whole group of players, parents and coaches has been together since the early days of Team Tag and provide inspiration to the Minis section behind them in the Club.

Word has spread beyond the traditional playing area, with a lead coach (himself a former professional player) from a Hampshire club hearing about the Devizes U14s team ethos, and made the journey to Devizes to participate in a training session and share his experiences with the players, whilst also learning about what has made Devizes U14s successful: inclusivity, friendliness, support and a willingness to have fun.

The quality of the players has been recognised by the selection of an impressive 8 of them to join the Bath Rugby Developing Player Programme.

In summary, the boys of Devizes RFC U14s have proved to be a consistently impressive and high-performing team and deserve to be recognised at the highest level.

Well done chaps!