NEWS
The James Rogers Trophy
James Rogers was one of the first young
players to join the Daventry Mini Rugby section when it first started back
in 1977. He very quickly established himself as a popular enthusiastic
member showing great potential. He was polite and willing to listen and he
gave 100% commitment both in training and in matches. James was one of the
key players when Daventry Under 10's won the St Neots Festival by beating
Bedford in the final. This was a team effort, of which, as usual James'
contribution was 100%. His sportsmanship and courage continued as he
progressed through the Mini and Junior Sections and on to the Colts, where
he was outstanding.
In addition to his prowess on the rugby
field, James possessed a well-rounded personality. In his later education at
Southbrook, now Danetre School he started to shine in the academic field.
Reports by the teaching staff predicted that he would achieve A Grades in
his A levels examinations, which would have led to the place at London
School of Economics that had been offered. There was also mentions of the
way he willingly helped less able students and displayed leadership
qualities in many different fields. It was also obvious that he was a good
mixer and had developed good communication skills with pupils and teachers
alike.
At the age of 17 years, James was involved
in a horrendous accident, which left him him severely handicapped. For the
remainder of James' short life and in spite of his untimely accident he
showed the same spirit and courage that he had displayed on the rugby pitch.
A glowing example of the feeling and togetherness within the club is
illustrated by a tape recording made by members of the Colts in the dressing
room prior to the "big match" in January 1987 when James was still in a coma
in hospital. Their words were full of encouragement plus a few threats as to
what would happen to him if he didn't turn out for the next match! Sadly,
even this was not sufficient to return him to consciousness, as his injuries
were too severe.
His family and friends agree that his
success in other fields were aided considerably by his membership of the
Daventry All Blacks and the principles of cooperation, team spirit and
selflessness, which were ingrained in him on the rugby field.
James Rogers is the ideal role model for
all young players and all future winners of this special trophy should feel
a great pride in receiving it as it represents true sportsmanship,
commitment, enthusiasm and most of all outstanding courage.
The James Rogers' trophy has been donated
by Mike Smith, a former Mini rugby coach from 1977 to 1980 and will be
presented for the first time to the winning team at the presentation
ceremony by James' parents, Anne and Malcolm Rogers.
Wales Tour 2008. - Update
Under 9's win Welsh Festival of
Rugby!!!
At the end of March Daventry took nearly
150 players, coaches and parents to Rhyl for the Team Tours Direct
Welsh Festival of Rugby.
Age groups represented included,
under 9's, 10's, 11's, 12's 13's, 14's & 16's. All teams put up a great showing and
handled the difference in the Welsh rules to put up brave displays.
However, we must recognise the
total success of the under 9's in winning the Challenge Cup for the 2nd year
running .The Cup will take pride of pace in the club
house (indeed a new cabinet has had to be secured).
Huge congratulations must also go to
the under 11's, 12's and 16's for also winning the shield for their
respective age groups
Well done to all
Older News
The Saints came to Daventry on the 16th
4 of the Saints first team players came and
helped train all the players and promote Rugby, fun was had by all.
 
MINI NEWS
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