In October 2023, Clifton College 2nd XV beat Bristol Schools U18s in a significant fixture for the Schools team.

Bristol Schools head coach, Dan Cottrell (WaH 86), played for the College 2nd XV many years ago. He tells us why this was so important. 

"The U18s boys are all players not at private schools or rugby colleges and not in the U18s Bears academy. This often means they only play high-value fixtures occasionally. This year, the team will play against the College, Millfield, The Cathedral School and BGS, as well as six other games, as it aims to bridge this critical gap."

Matt Salter, director of rugby at the College, was a key mover helping the team launch in 2023, and we look forward to returning to the Close again this year. "We are delighted to be running for a second year with the full support of the Bears Academy "

Dan, who is also the editor of Rugby Coach Weekly, is the second from the right in the back row in the picture. Eagle-eyed OCs may spot Sam Worsley (SH 2022) in the front row, who helped support the team this year in between his playing role at the Bristol Bears.

If any OCs would like to help support the programme reach out to more players, please contact Dan on dan4rugby@yahoo.co.uk or https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-cottrell-9b699523/