The U16 Wellington Festival kicked off last week with over 400 players from the 14 Premiership Rugby academies taking part. Olney RFC was represented by three players turning our for Northampton Saints EPDG including Jacob de Main and Charles Rylands (U16) and Oli Betteridge (U15). The week-long programme is held annually at Wellington College, Berkshire and aims to develop both academy players and coaches on and off the field in a variety of areas.

Providing an environment where the players are encouraged to explore the game, the programme will focus on five main areas, known as C.A.R.D.S (Creativity, Awareness, Resilience, Decision-Making and Self-Organisation). On the field, the academy teams will train and play against each other in a number of matches, challenged with law variations which will encourage free flowing, skilful rugby. During the week Northampton Saints secured wins against Exeter, Saracens and Newcastle.

Photo: Left to right - Charles Rylands, Oli Betteridge, Jacob de Main