Day 11 – October 11, 2015

Tour End

It really is hard to believe our tour, close to two years in the making, is now coming to an end.

As of this writing, our returning group is staggered throughout the Gatwick Airport waiting on gate confirmation and the beginning of our long haul home. It’s safe to say many are thinking the timing of our return to be a good thing as most, if not all, have come down with a tour cold. A lot of coughs and sniffles are sure to worry any passenger on the plane that’s not part of our group.

Speaking of which, it seems a miracle we’ve actually made the plane with our expected compliment. Players who shall remain nameless (you know who you are) nearly forgetting their passport and boarding pass at check-in, stuck in security with forgotten Gatorade Bottles in their carry-on, the posse misunderstanding boarding time with flight departure and winning the “last men to board” award! The list goes on…..

There really are too many memories to do justice on this, our last blog entry, and to be fair to the tour, it will be the personal stories each player will share once back home that will truly give life to this grand adventure.

The group has been fabulous to travel with. At each stop the remarks from school staff and host families have all been positive. Good Team, good people, polite and helpful. Also, great ambassadors of Canadian Rugby and of their Club, Castaway Wanderers RFC.

It’s safe to say these young men left many with the distinct impression that our product of Canadian Rugby can be both punishing and free flowing and competitive with top junior talent whether home or abroad. Not many touring teams to the UK can make this statement: “3 and 0”!

We’d be remiss not to thank some (will undoubtedly forget someone – so apologies in advance).

To Onside Travel – thank you for creating the “bones” of the tour, for determining competitive fixtures and cultural opportunities for us all. To those thinking of a group tour, we wouldn’t hesitate to encourage the use of Onside.

Also thanks to Mainline Bus and our driver extraordinaire, Carl. We would not have made it around, most importantly, around safely, without your tremendous driving abilities. Carl really became part of the group. Proof of that statement coming from cheers for his inclusion in the post game team photo vs. Leicester. You won’t see any coaches in that picture!

Thank you to those businesses whose contributions to our Tour Book helped with group tour events throughout our stay in the UK.

To our marquee sponsor, Carson Automotive Group, our thanks for your generous contributions, allowing the team to attend important events such as the RWC Wales/Australia Match in Twickenham.

Lastly, to our Club, Castaway Wanderers RFC. Without the support given to our team, this tour simply would not have been possible. This support, far exceeds anything done in the recent past and also exceeds this management group. Quite frankly, it all began at U8 Minis. Any number of dedicated coaches, managers, parents working alongside a supportive Club all laid the groundwork for this fantastic opportunity. So again – our heartfelt thanks to all who have contributed over the years.

In closing, the coaching group must comment on the bonds established between these players and the incredible efforts shown on the field of play and during the tour generally. This is a remarkable group, lucky enough to experience this tour opportunity. The coaches have also expressed an almost unbridled excitement in bringing the entire team back together again as they switch gears and continue with their season back home. All feel these experiences will only bring the team as a whole closer together and help produce a better team chemistry and game on the pitch.

To the Team – safe travels, enjoy some well deserved rest and don’t forget, practice on Tuesday, back with with the rest of our rugby family!

Day 10 – October 10, 2015

Well, as some like to say – “Done and dusted.”

Day 10, the final of our tour (with the exception of our trek back home tomorrow) began at Wallington School where we met up with the boys and their billets. Once corralled, we once again boarded the bus, but first up was a Team Canada “giveaway”. During our Q and A with Team Canada, the staff and many players provided quite a few articles of gear – enough to hand at least one piece to each tour player. The hottest on the list, 4 official RWC match balls. Two were given to ever improving kickers, Brayden and Gareth, one to our “best man” on tour, Ben O and after discussion and a vote of approval from the 3 coaches, our player of the tour, Brennig. Must have channeled some of that Welsh heritage while in the homeland!

Lads were all happy with “Kitmas” and the relatively short trip to Twickenham. We got there nice and early and thus had plenty of time to spend in this historic rugby community.

The Town of Twickenham is a great place to visit, with many shops and of course pubs to enjoy the game if you don’t have the opportunity to see it live. Also, across the street, is the “Stoop”, home of the Harlequins. With no notice most of the team happened upon the field, met up with England’s Center, Emily Scarratt and then somehow Roger got us a quick tour of the Harlequins Home Locker Room. Of course, we wouldn’t be done without raiding the gift shop and we were true to form.

Next up Wales vs. Australia in Twickenham! The team, part in fun and part through heritage, separated into dueling groups and cheered for one of the teams. It was incredible to watch over 80,500 fans enter a relatively small area. Our guys, wanting to see the players up close headed to the “Lions Gate” to cheer both teams into the stadium.

Once done at the “Lion’s Gate” we begin our climb to our seats. When we say climb, we mean it. We’ll call it top of the food chain. While not as near to the field as the Can/Rom game, it was an amazing spot to view the whole field. Perfect to view offensive and defense positioning and the like. We won’t detail the game as most, if not all, will have enjoyed already. That said, it was a great night, electric, how could it not be with that many screaming fans.

With the game done and Australia victorious, we all headed for our coach and managed to squeeze in one last run through the Harlequin’s Team Shop.

It’s hard to believe 10 days has gone by and we’re wrapping up this tour. Much to do now in preparation of our flight, boys trying to track down some late night food (as per usual!) – so off for now and we’ll wrap-up with final thoughts later on…

Day 9 – Postscript

To those who may be unaware, this past summer, Wallington County Grammar School was on tour to Canada and was scheduled to play a game vs. our U18 CW team. What began as the trip of a lifetime turned to tragedy when one of their group, Jamal Ottun, died. The team, understandingly, chose to end their tour and travel back to the UK, all left to deal with this loss.

With CW now on tour, this was a much anticipated match for both teams. In many ways, an opportunity to pay respects, or to play in honour of a friend and teammate and for our CW family, a chance to create a kinship through the game of rugby.

Prior to kickoff the teams met at center field for a minute of silence in remembrance of this vibrant young man gone too soon.

Post game Coach Spencer was able to present a Canada Rugby Game Jersey (stitched to commemorate Canada’s game vs. France, played at Milton Keynes the same day our tour began.) This jersey was generously provided by Team Canada during our meet and greet and CW felt an appropriate presentation.

David Johnston, Director of Sport at Wallington County Grammar School was so moved by the presentation, he noted the perfect place for the jersey – to be mounted and displayed with a game ball presented by the England National Team, in the school’s entry foyer.

Final comments by the Wallington Staff spoke to the connection of people through the tremendous game of rugby and their intentions to keep and foster the relationship built through tragic events.

As previously noted by our CW group, onward and upward.

In Remembrance – Jamal Ottun.

Day 9 – October 9, 2015

Day 9 started with the boys running a quick training session at Wallington School. We then made our foray into London using the British transit system. Fun moment of the day was when the boys, after explicit instruction from the management staff not to get on the train while we organized their tickets, hid from them after a train pulled away. Look on the faces of the coaches was priceless, but even better was the expressions of the boys so proud to have pulled off the prank!

A train and two tube transfers took us into Piccadilly Circus where the first stop was Lily Whites for some more rugby purchases. After that the boys were given 4 hours to explore London on their own. We then traveled back to Wallington to meet our opposition for our final game on tour.

In the words of Coach Spencer “Job done.” The CW U18 team where able to maintain a perfect record on tour by defeating Wallington Grammar 24-3 in their final game in Britain. The reputation of the tourists had preceded them to Wallington, with the home team taking on a very pragmatic approach to the game. Indeed CW saw the first penalty attempt (converted) against them this whole tour; most teams choosing to go for trys instead of penalties. The end result was that CW was behind for the first time on tour. Wallington’s defending was frustrating the CW attack. Some much needed “go forward’ was provided by CW’s own “Pain Train” Christopher Carson. Two blockbusting runs by Christopher lead directly to two CW trys, with Chris himself just coming up short before the first one with Sam Kahn crossing the line for a try to finish it off. CW did all of their scoring in the second half off the back with an impressive forward onslaught, spearheaded by Ben Kinahan, Carter White, David Carson and his cousin Christopher. It was a special tour for Christopher as he was the only player to play every minute of every game. Amazing!

The team was captained today by Brayden Tate, who lead admirably from both the fly-half and scrum-half positions. His vision and service allowed the team to add width to their attack. The benefactor was Sam Barclay who crossed for two trys after receiving the ball early and in space. A winger’s dream. Brayden was voted “Best Back” and Ben Kinahan “Best Forward” by the Wallington coaches.

All in all a successful end to a successful tour. Every player played their part and, in the coaches opinions, played their best. Onwards and upwards. With one upwards being our final day tomorrow at Twickenham for the Australia vs Wales game. What a day it will be!

Day 8 – October 8, 2015

Still living off the excitement of last night’s victory, the tour group said goodbye to our excellent hosts at Leicester County Grammar School and traveled in to London for some sightseeing. Before leaving, the director of rugby, Tom Lemon, presented a man of the match jersey to Jonah Hall and a special presentation of a jersey to Ben O’Flynn (aka Mumbles).

As per usual, it took longer to get into London than we had anticipated, which made for some swift walking as a group. Well that is, as fast as you can walk with a touring group of 31. We stopped for many photo ops, team pics and of course gecko moments (check out our Facebook post).

After a quick stop for lunch we began our tour of Central London, led by a directionally challenged Spencer and Roger. Starting at Buckingham Palace, we walked The Mall past St James Park and Palace. We then moved on to Trafalgar Square and then up towards Leicester Square. We would have gone farther but an M & M candy store took their attention (5 storey candy store!!). Running out of time we made a quick walk to Clock Tower (Big Ben) and then back to the bus for some more incredible London traffic.

We met up with our last set of host billets at Wallington School, sending the boys off with their Oyster cards so they can ride public transport around the area. Will see them again in the morning for some more time in London (think some shopping will be done by all) and then the team’s final tour game tomorrow night at 4:30 pm.

Day 7 – October 7, 2015

Game 2 of the CW U18 Tour came later in a day that began with a visit to the Leicester Tigers RFC grounds and clubhouse. The boys eyes were opened up to the rich history of one of England’s most successful rugby clubs. Holding up the Heineken Cup, sitting in the change room which was home to greats such as Martin Johnson, and getting to observe an England fly-half go through his paces at kicking practice must have inspired the boys to put in a truly spirited performance.

The opposition for the day were the Leicester Grammar School, coached by former England international scrum-half Harry Ellis. The playing field was of the highest standard and was equally matched by the other facilities on campus. The game began with lots of physicality from both sides, and CW gave as much as they got in this department. The groundwork was laid up front through the strong running of #8 Jonah Hall, and props Carter White and Christopher Carson. Leicester Grammar had their own strong runners, but could not match CW in the use of the ball, particularly through the use of off-loads. Will Tarrant lead the way by orchestrating a superb try through interplay with fullback Brandon Schellenberger. Will was a talisman for his teammates through his elusiveness in attack and determination in defense. So too, scrum-half Brayden Tate who provided a steady stream of quick ball to the backline and making numerous covering tackles on the Leicester threats. The backs performance was a fluid one, characterized by the line-breaks of Brennig Prevost, Schellenberger and in particular Jonas Robinson. All of this lead to trys for David Carson, Josh Kahn, a second for Schellenberger and one for Prevost himself.

The contribution of “the finishers” was immense with Jonny Makaroff, Nik Bereznoj and Walker Grant all lifting the team with the energy they brought to the game. A few sicknesses prevented some players from taking any part of the action on the field, but all should be back ready for Friday’s game. One who played through his own maladies for the sake of his “family” was Callum “All Day” Masterton. Callum put in a “Man of the Match” performance through his work around the field, at rucks and his complete domination of the lineout.

All in all the most complete team performance on tour and the boys are keen to finish on a high note in two days time at Wallington with an attitude of gratitude. Final score CW 33, Leicester Grammar 12.

Next up, London for the day.

Day 6 – October 6, 2015

A strictly tourist day with two HUGE Rugby Canada events on the itinerary and another opportunity to explore some cultural aspects of England with a tour through Warwick Castle.

First up CW is transported to Team Canada’s Leicester Hotel, where they are hosted to a private Q and A with both players and coaches, along with a breakdown of the strategy to be employed in the evening’s game vs. Romania. Included in the discussion, a great overview of how the team and individual players game stats are broken down for for both practices and games. Short story – no hiding anywhere on the field anymore!

We can’t say enough how much we appreciate all involved with Team Canada’s efforts to provide a meaningful experience for our lads. This was not a side thought, and we offer our sincere thanks for the time and consideration from the players and staff. A truly classy group of men. We even found a special mate our our Mumbles. Didn’t take long for Ben O and Connor Braid to commiserate about soups and smoothies!

Now off to Warwick Castle, 2nd biggest is the UK and one of the best opportunities to see Medieval Architecture up close. An example of the size of the castle can be understood by the number stairs you climb to get through all the Towers – 500!

We thought the previous day provided the kids a typical English experience as to rainfall. Boy were we mistaken! Entry to Warwick was met with a torrential downpour. So heavy, we made the choice to take lunch on the coach rather than walk and eat. Once our walk around was complete it was time to prepare for our first RWC Fixture, Canada vs Romania. Onto the coach, off with wet gear and on with everything red and white we could muster.

Despite our driver Carl’s best efforts through horrendous traffic, all arrive literally mid anthem. Imagine a game of musical chairs with 31 on tour vs 27,000 in the stands. That was our start to the game. With some on the fly work from Tami, all are seated in their/someone’s seat and now it’s time to enjoy all the game has to offer.

No point in detailing the highs and lows of the game other than to say, there should be many learning opportunities taken away for our team.

The whistle blows with a final score of Canada 15 – 17 Romania.

Again, the boys from Team Canada show incredible class and many come by to say hello and allow us an opportunity to offer quick thoughts on their incredible efforts on the day. You can see they are gutted by the loss, and certainly felt by our guys after having an opportunity to meet them up close not less than 7 hours before.

With that we all pile out of Leister City Stadium and then it’s time to search for our coach. One more cultural event, well maybe not, but a few overzealous fans decide to give us ringside seats to a mild donnybrook. Not a big deal as they dust themselves off and it seems off as friends once again.

Coach found and now time to take the team to their second billets of the tour, Leicester County Grammar School. If the organization shown at billet hand-off or the fields and facilities are any indication, this will be a stiff test for our guys and we’re confident they’ll be up for it.

Off for now…..

Day 5 – October 5, 2015

Today was a travel day, mixed in with cultural visit to Stratford upon Avon and then off to the Town and School of Rugby to take in what most consider to be the birthplace of Rugby.

First was drop off at Plasmawr School, where hosts and billets mingled for the last time. Good laughs were heard and more stories exchanged (and a few hugs by the ladies) until the teacher suggested our guys get on the coach as it seemed the only way to convince his pupils to get to class.

Once on the road, the team fell quiet and for the most part slept through beautiful country vistas on route to Stratford Upon Avon.

On arrival, not surprisingly, lunch was a top priority but not before notice was given of specific tasks to be completed before the tour’s first court session to be held later in the evening.

Stratford Upon Avon, for those not in the know, is a quaint town and known as birthplace of Shakespeare. The only dampener on the visit was the first real rain experienced while on tour.

Next up was Rugby, so the team was back on the bus. An hour later and once parking found, we all make our way to the School of Rugby with excitement rising as we near the gates and see a fair amount of action on the grounds.

As the boys take in a little gift shop at the entrance gate, Coach Roger makes his way past the white rope, looking to engage in some friendly conversation with a member of the teaching staff. No sooner than shoe two hits the grass do we see a staff member chasing down Rog, with a “hands up” type tone. Unbeknownst to us, since the RWC is in full swing, any kind of flexibility has gone out the window. With good humour there is some discussion amongst the group as to whether or not worth it to make a break for the posts for a picture. Kevin and Tami run a quick risk analysis, and come to the conclusion with imprisonment a likely result and accepting our fundraising money does not include bail consideration for those infringing on the rules, all relent.

So with that, uber Manager Tami strikes a deal and the boys are escorted to the Webb Ellis plaque for a quick picture and now a more friendly, “to other side of the exit gate please and thanks for coming”.

While unfortunate we couldn’t spend more time at the school, all certainly understood the higher level of security and procedure that comes with an event such as this.

We then headed to our hotel, quick check in and then the boys were off for a quick training run. The coaches are not letting the boys forget the real reason for our tour! We then convened together for a team dinner at the hotel, during which the boys were advised of the pending court session to be overseen by Judge Spencer. As with every rugby tour, the tradition of the court session is based on “what goes on tour stays on tour”, and thus we can not share the details with you. But safe to say, young, old, even coaches were not spared! Highly entertaining and has a few people nervous about what our final court session will hold.

Tomorrow is setting up to be a big day. Confirmation of a Team Canada meeting sets the stage, followed by a visit to Warwick Castle and then time for some fun at our first RWC game. Canada vs Romania at Leicester City Stadium!

Day 4 – October 4, 2015

Finally, game day. A few days of anticipation for this one and as you can imagine lots to wonder as far as the level of competition to be faced. With the knowledge that Wales is only one of two countries having rugby as their national sport, the boys knew it would be a decent tilt.

First up, our rendezvous after a first night of billeting. All smiles as they arrived back to the school. Stories of games watched at rugby clubhouses, local customs experienced and a few blushing at some attention from the fairer sex. Note – our lads were absolute gentlemen.

Next up, the game. Our boys got off to a flying start today in their game against Cardiff’s Plasmawr School. The game was an entertaining affair with both teams showing a real desire to attack at every opportunity. Early nerves and total defensive commitment by both sides lead to some sloppy play at first, but once the sides settled the rugby was fast and furious. Ironically, it was from a Plasmawr kick which was fielded by young Sam Kahn that lead to one of CW’s finest tries of the match. considerable defensive pressure on the welsh line forced them to explore the territory through kicking, and when Kahn linked with the incomparable Brandon Schellenberger from fullback, an attack was launched which resulted in a try to flanker Jamie Shillington who showed a fair turn off pace to score.

Other try scorers were Jonah Hall, Carter White, John Cook, Connor King, and Brandon Schellenberger. Brennig Prevost was successful with one conversion. The team as a whole should be proud of their performance. Coach Robinson was particularly impressed with the contribution made by Christopher Carson and Gareth Sander. Well done boys!

After a quick post-match thank you and pictures, we were off for some shopping and culture. First up was St. Fagans, a Welsh cultural museum. Great spot, but lesson learned – don’t take hungry boys to a museum. Museum stay cut short and visit to Marks & Spencer for food made the rest of the day go much smoother!

Into Cardiff City Centre we went, where the boys were given some time to pry open those wallets with visits to local sports and rugby stores a particular highlight. Wales gear seems to be popular in preparation of our RWC game. We’re sure they were influenced by their experiences the previous evening watching the England vs Australia match. Hop

The day wouldn’t be complete without another Gecko spotting, an inventive way to cross the street safely together (check out our Facebook page for the video) and a team photo with the largest rugby ball ever!

Now to Cardiff Castle. What a fantastic way to break into some culture again. The perfect combination of history, mixed with vistas of the here and now. This historical site is a mere stone’s throw from the famous Millennium Stadium – soon to be called Principality Stadium, a source of debate for another time.

Once done, the boys returned to their billets and the staff and parent tourists had the pleasure of an evening hosted by Plasmawr’s Coach, Sian and family. All started with a quick meet and great with his family, some more history explained of the area and then as custom dictates, off to a local pub. A very relaxing affair where kids and furry friends are encouraged to participate.

A huge thank you to Plasmawr. To their Staff and players for the great game and most importantly to the host families who have taken such great care of our players. We are certain life long memories and friendships will be made on this first stop.

Tomorrow is a long travel day to Stratford Upon Avon and then onto Rugby.

Cheers from Wales!
PS. More pics on our Facebook Page – CWU18RugbyTour

Day 3 – October 3, 2015

Day 3 done and dusted.

It was another early start to the day with a wake up call of 0730 for light runaround. Yes, that’s correct – 0730!

The coaches, in an effort to ensure an adequate level of culture for the team, found the perfect training site. Originally known as the Kings Circus, the Circus consists of 3 townhouse structures (built 1754-68) with a circular green space in the middle. When we say perfect, we mean perfect with the exception of 4 large trees in the middle. Makes for some strong opposition. Also realized early on, perfect acoustics for chatter, perhaps not completely appreciated by the locals looking for a weekend sleep in.

To close off the session, Coach Spencer acknowledged Brayden with the “Flash” award, given for his speed exhibited during the previous day’s touch session. Yet another player trying to make amendments to their Bio remarks!

Back to the hotel for a shower and breakfast and then the rest of the morning for sightseeing in beautiful Bath. Too many highlights to mention about this city, but comments of WW II shrapnel markings on buildings, the Roman Baths and of course the Recreation Ground or the “Rec”, also home of the Bath Rugby Club. The Rec is open to the public and to the surprise of the team, Bath’s Stadium was also open. Many of the lads took an opportunity to run through the Team’s Tunnel and walk the pitch itself.

With the mornings walkabout complete, next on the agenda, an Aviva Premiership Match between Gloucester Rugby and the Exeter Chiefs. It was a high scoring affair with Exeter ruling the day and securing the win (33-31) with a game saving tackle at the goal line. The team quite enjoyed the high level of play by the likes of Billy Twelvetrees and of particular delight a fellow “Cookie”, although playing Fullback rather than our Cookie at Hooker.

We should mention a great halftime message welcoming the Castaway Wanderers to the UK and wishing them good luck on their upcoming games. The team was again met with many friendly fans genuinely interested in the tour and in discussing rugby generally.

Game over and back in the bus then on route to Wales for the team’s first billet experience. The staff spent good time coming up with the right combinations of teammates with the hopes of providing some entertainment to their host families.

All seem to be hoping for a relatively early night in preparation for their first fixture on tour vs Plasmawr School in Cardiff, although not too early as we’ll all be watching the England/Australia Game!

We’ll sign off on our Day 3 post – pumped with anticipation to finally hit the pitch.