Blue Coat’s double delight in national competitions

SONNING’S Reading Blue Coat is celebrating a double triumph as their U15s rugby and first football teams clinched victories in national competitions.

In the Continental Tyres National Schools Bowl final, the U15s rugby team secured a resounding 22-12 victory against Gordon’s School.

Head of PE, Jason Dance, praised the team’s exceptional performance, emphasising the unforgettable experience for the boys playing at Saracens’ StoneX Stadium. Dance said: “It’s a super day and one they will remember forever. We had two busloads of supporters, including the whole of the year group with our senior leadership team looking after them.

“It was great for the boys to have the support of their whole year group.”

Early tries by captain James Lunn and Joshua Wilson spearheaded the team’s triumph, while Harry Millard’s adept kicking skills further solidified their lead.

Dance added: “I think our early carries in the first 10 minutes were really important in setting the tone for the game. I think those first 10 minutes was where the game was won.”

Despite a spirited fightback from Gordon’s, Blue Coat’s resilience prevailed, culminating in a last try moments before the final whistle.

Reflecting on the season, Dance hailed the efforts of head of rugby, Toby Seward, in creating a rugby programme which allowed the team to thrive. Dance said: “To finish off with a win here after two terms of rugby is absolutely fantastic and a real credit to our director of rugby Toby Seward who puts on a lot of things for the guys, and they’ve really produced this year.”

This victory was closely followed by a thrilling encounter at Burnham FC, where Reading Blue Coat’s first football team, led by head of football Kester Buckland and coach and former Reading FC striker Dave Kitson this season, have clinched their first ever national cup competition win.

Blue Coat overcame Cranleigh School in the ISFA U18s Shield final with a gritty 2-1 victory in extra time, despite being a player down.

A 1-0 lead at half-time was thwarted with a dramatic equaliser from Cranleigh in the dying seconds, taking the game to extra time. Undeterred, Blue Coat seized back control, ultimately securing their win.

Speaking after the win, Blue Coat headmaster, Pete Thomas, said: “This is an outstanding achievement by our talented young players.

“The spirit of camaraderie and dedication embodied by both teams is truly inspirational, marking a proud moment in our school’s history.”