In a bid to keep recent Colts and other local talent engaged during the jump between junior and adult rugby, Rams ran a three-match festive programme against Champ sides Chinnor, Richmond and Cambridge.
Having beaten their nearest neighbours 73-12 in the opener, the Berkshire side then secured road wins at the Londoners (47-12) and Cambridge (35-19).
Creating a new entity and DNA
Rams used 35 players across the three games, with Dave commenting: “We talked about the idea of a U23s in the summer, trying to create a new entity which would provide an opportunity for guys to keep wearing a Rams shirt – and one they could create its own DNA with.
“When I saw the first three fixtures against Champ sides, I did think ‘Crikey’, but I knew we’d have quality players as well.
“I wasn’t sure how it would work, but we agreed, whatever happens, we’ll give it a go.
“We had our recent Colts who’ve either gone off to Uni or stayed playing locally, some Reading University guys, other Berkshire U20s, a real mix.”
“The first training session we had was two days before the Chinnor game and everyone truly bought into it and put a flag in the ground.”
‘Senior players were instrumental’
He continued: “With people coming from lots of different places you can’t be sure how they’ll all blend, but they were just amazing, and the senior players really helped the younger guys gain confidence.
“We were very lucky with the ones who captained the side, others who’ve had some National One game time, and those in their last year as U23s – they were instrumental in bringing the squad together.
“From my experience of being at the club 28 years, and right when we were at our lowest, there’s a chance to build something and these lads have started that.
“This won’t be a flash in the pan, it’s something we’re committed to, and their positivity has given it the perfect start.
“The results back it up, with three good wins and more importantly three good performances. I’m delighted with how it’s gone.”
Players credited as training plans curtailed
While the three-week block went well, it was not without some pitfalls – most notably the weather restricting training time.
Dave explained: “We’d planned to have a session before each match, but the reality with it being Christmas, the poor weather, availability with bumps and bruises, we only had the first one!
“We kept it short and sweet, only an hour, but did a bit of line-out work and what we might do off the set-piece. But we certainly didn’t overdo it.
“Credit to the players and their quality it came together. It did help I’m aware of how the first-team play and I’ve tried with the Colts to follow similar structures, so that did help a bit blending with the guys from the Senior Squad.
“However, we also had players from Reading Uni and other clubs, and they just picked it up – there was no pressure, just a chance to enjoy some games of rugby.”
Cambridge success the highlight
Despite two solid opening victories, the coach was most pleased with the Cambridge success, secured on a freezing cold Wednesday night at the city’s University 4G pitch.
He commented: “For Cambridge we had new half-backs who’d never played before, a hooker who didn’t know the calls before 20 minutes prior to the game, and they’ve been running the programme for three years.
“So it was a very good win, and to hear them compliment our guys for being well-drilled, I think that refers to ball retention, the determination to get off the floor and into the, and the defence.
“The latter was especially key as they had some powerful lads, but those were the stand-out features against a very well-organised side.”
With players from other local clubs including Reading, Newbury and Marlow also enjoying game time, he added: “I believe there’s a good understanding from both sides now, it’s becoming mutually beneficial.
“There is a pathway for the top players to have a crack at National One – (first-team captain) Max (Hayman) being the perfect example – but equally we are sending players on loan which strengthens the other clubs.”
Coach believes there’s plenty more to come
With Easter fixtures against Chinnor (away, April 8) and Cambridge (home, 15), and the possibility of clashes with the likes of Richmond, Rosslyn Park and Dorking being discussed, Dave believes the concept can continue to grow.
He said: “I think it’s brilliant. If you look at the rugby pyramid, there’s a lot of very talented players who go through the Academies, but the bulk around the age of 18 are dropped.
“Then they have a decision to make, and lots vote with their feet by stopping completely.
“Hopefully quality games for them, and the guys coming back from University, will keep them interested and continuing to develop.
‘Phenomenal commitment’ heralded
Reaffirming his praise for the squad, he ended: “The commitment the guys showed was phenomenal – it’s Christmas, you’d forgive them for just socialising the whole time – but they’ve bought in, I’ve not had to chase people and they’ve all been on the ball.
“What started as an experiment has exceeded expectations and I’m so happy with what we’ve got from everyone.
“What was more important than that was the bond the group forged – they were all saying ‘this has been great, when’s the next game.’
“Some have said they’d travel back from Uni to play, and that’s a huge endorsement for how it’s gone – I’ve also had people actively messaging me to get involved.
“It’s exciting looking ahead because more than half the squad would have been first or second year Uni guys, so in theory they should only get stronger.”
