The Junior Academy brought their season to a close on Friday 8th May at Watchetts, kicking things off with a brilliantly chaotic game of unconventional cricket. Judging by some of the lads’ bowling actions and batting techniques, it’s probably safest for everyone if they stick to rugby- but the enthusiasm, competitiveness and laughter were absolutely top-class.
After the on‑field entertainment, the boys headed back to the Clubhouse for pizza, treats, and a well‑earned celebration of everything they’ve achieved this year.
Every single player deserves huge credit for their commitment, effort, teamwork and resilience across the season. But as always, a number of special awards were presented:

• Players’ Player (Pinks) - Gabriel S
• Players’ Player (Blacks) - Tim DL
• Coaches’ Player (Pinks) - Gabriel S
• Coaches’ Player (Blacks) - Ieuan G
• Forward of the Year (Pinks) -Will B
• Forward of the Year (Blacks) - Jack W
• Back of the Year (Pinks) -Alex G
• Back of the Year (Blacks) -Fraser G & Steven W
• Most Improved Player – Callum McD
• Best Clubman – Will D‑R
• Biggest Sapper – Jared R (his moaning is only rivaled by his skill on the pitch)

A season like this doesn’t happen without a lot of people working tirelessly behind the scenes so huge "Thank yous" must go to our:

Our First Aiders, who have patched, taped, iced, supported and generally reassembled the boys more times than we can count.
Our Coaches, whose commitment has survived rain, mud, early mornings and even rogue squirrels -have been outstanding all season.
Our Squad Managers, who somehow ensure fixtures exist, players appear in the right place, and that the chaos remains just about manageable. No small feat.
Our Parents, who taxi the boys to training, matches, tours and everything in between. Your support makes all the difference.

Season Highlights:

The Pinks
The standout moment has to be the Bronze Stoop Cup win. Their journey tells the story of the season perfectly:
First cup match vs Effingham & Leatherhead: lost 7–0 Final cup match before the final, again vs Effingham & Leatherhead: won 41–20
If that doesn’t show how far the boys have come -in skill, confidence, and belief -nothing will.

The Blacks
Our tireless Blacks have shown tremendous improvement this season, not only in their performances but in their results- including some well-earned wins that highlighted just how far they’ve come. Although they didn’t get their final day due to opposition availability, they should be incredibly proud of the progress they’ve made.

This year’s tour was a huge success and a real highlight for players and coaches alike. The squad:
Trained at the Bristol Bears High Performance Centre
Watched Harlequins beat the Bears at the Principality Stadium
Played competitive fixtures against Supermarine RFC, Keynsham RFC, and Gordano RFC
The hospitality shown by all three clubs was outstanding, and we look forward to welcoming them to Watchetts in the future to return the favour.

And now, as the season draws to a close, it’s time for the boys to swap tackle bags and boots for books. We wish every single one of them the very best of luck in their GCSE exams. If they throw themselves into their studies with even half the commitment, energy and determination they show on the pitch, they are absolutely guaranteed success.

We’re already looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible when pre‑season training begins on 30th June. A new chapter, a new challenge, and plenty more to come.