AKS rugby season has got off to a fantastic start, following a well-attended pre-season. There have been 40 fixtures across the 70 week period and a number of highlights, ranging from individual achievement, both in training and in fixtures. We have seen the development of the teamwork, game management and understanding within the fixtures, all whist picking up some encouraging wins along the way.
The on-form team this half term was 1st XV, who hit the ground running with a win over Stonyhurst, this was backed up with wins against Wirral Grammar, Altrincham Grammar, Giggleswick and Austin Friars. Although the squad is mainly 6th Form students there have been a number of U16’s who were selected to further enhance their development and have all dealt with the challenge admirably. In the National Cup the 1st XV reached the 3rd round against our local rivals Kirkham. It was a high levelled and intense game, with AKS spending large periods of the game ahead. However, they were just edged out in the closing stages of the game. Promising, nevertheless.
The 2nds / U16s had a tough start to the season through injury and in the early fixtures lost to Stonyhurst and QEGS Wakefield but had a close game against Ripley St Thomas and a good win away at Giggleswick. The squad are looking forward to being back to full strength in the second half of the season, and the U16’s continue in the Lancashire Plate competition.
This half term has been one of development for the U15 squad. They have shown an impressive flair in attack and are working hard to develop their defensive game under Mr Lanzani’s watchful eye. With players coming back from injury after half term, the U15s are looking forward to progressing further as they line up to play in the Lancashire Cup and National Bowl.
The U14s have had a strong start to the season winning 4 games from 6, with notable performances against Stonyhurst and QEGS Wakefield. The group are in a transition stage, developing their individual talent, to a well-versed team game, with Mr Daws challenging them every step of the way.
The U13s had a mixed start to the season with fantastic wins against Altrincham and Giggleswick, with the squad showing impressive attacking flair. As they move into the second half of the season they look to build on their successes and show the tenacity that they are capable of. A highlight for the U13 squad was in a round-robin with AKS B team, Tuheedul and Stonyhurst B. This saw a number of boys represent the school for the first time at rugby, and some impressive individual performances.
In their first season at AKS, the U12s have had a fantastic start to the season, winning 3 from their 5 fixtures against strong opposition. The squad are developing into an exciting team, able to move the ball and find space. Despite losing in a closely fought game the U12 squad had their most impressive performance against QEGS Wakefield. As we approach half term, there is a buzz in the U12 squad this week as they prepare for the annual Llandudno rugby tour. We wish the boys luck in their games.
The AKS rugby programme has seen its highest number of players progressing in the Sale Sharks Academy set up with 3 players in the U17 and 2 in the U16s SGD. With a further 8 players in the trial process for DPP.
The AKS rugby programme continues to develop and feed players into our local senior clubs, notably, 4 of last year's 1st XV have represented Fylde 2nd XV this season, with Cameron making his Fylde 1st XV debut in the pre season. It is pleasing to see them join the host of talented OAKs within the Fylde senior squad.