Our U15s are open to players in School Year 10, and by this stage the rugby is definitely getting more serious. The game is faster, more physical and increasingly tactical, with players expected to develop a greater understanding of their position, their responsibilities and how they contribute to the team.

That said, enjoyment and being part of a team still sit at the heart of everything we do. Whether you’ve played rugby for years, are joining us from another club or are relatively new to the game, there’s a place for you within the squad.

Training becomes more focused, building on the fundamentals while developing position-specific skills, set pieces, attacking and defensive structures, game management and decision-making. Players are encouraged to read the game, communicate effectively and take greater responsibility for their own performance and development.

There is also an increased emphasis on strength, fitness, safe and effective contact and preparing players for the physical demands of the game. Our coaches work with the squad to challenge them, develop their individual strengths and help them become more confident and capable rugby players.

Fixtures are an important part of the season and the competitive side of rugby naturally becomes more significant. We want to win and we want our players to be competitive, but never at the expense of development, respect or enjoyment. Players are encouraged to work hard for one another, respond positively when things don’t go their way and take pride in representing the team and the club.

At U15s, rugby is about much more than simply turning up on a Sunday. It’s about commitment, resilience, friendships and becoming part of a squad that works for each other. The experiences shared on the training pitch, during matches and around the club are often the ones players remember long after the final whistle.

Everything we do is underpinned by England Rugby’s core values of Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship – TREDS, and as our players get older, we expect them to take real ownership of those values both on and off the pitch.

Train hard, play hard, support your teammates and enjoy your rugby. New players are always welcome to come along and become part of the squad.