Consett Rugby Club U18s reign victorious during tour to America

Consett Rugby Club U18s reign victorious during tour to America

Consett Rugby Club return to the North East as Great Lake Sevens winners after an unforgettable summer tour for their under 18 boys.

Consett RFC visited the Milwaukee and Chicago area for the fourth time with the 2017/18 season U18 Boys for sightseeing, Sevens rugby, music festivals and the first leg of a 15aside fixture against Illinois State Tornado’s.

Consett U18s reigned Great Lake Sevens Champions during their twelve day stay with five from five victories, including a 45 -7 final result in the competition at Chicago Blaze Rugby Club.

The competition final saw tries from; Daniel Smith (Capt), Oli Bartles Smith, Matthew Lovett, Oliver Smith, Owen Young & Callum Smith.

During their visit to the USA, the Great Lake Sevens was not the only rugby on the agenda, as the North East tourists played in the Lakefront 7s, the largest sevens competition in the USA, followed by the largest music festival, Summerfest and a 15 aside fixture against Illinois State Tornado’s ending 55-14 to the visitors.

David Trott, Chairman and Tour Leader commented on the trip, saying: “These opportunities are really important for keeping the interest in rugby, especially for an age grade that generally struggles to retain players.

“The expectations and pleasure in seeing the players take the field and interact in another countries rugby culture is truly inspiring to both the young adults and coaches, who in some cases have been together for 12 years.

“Now we hope they take to the field as senior players and continue to play rugby for many years to come.”

Across the trip to America, the Consett boys were able to experience a host of attractions off the field as well, including; Lambeau Field, Home of NFL team Green Bay Packers and the Hall of Fames, Summerfest, Raging Waves Water Park, University of Notre Dame tour, Shedd Aquarium, Sky Deck including the glass ledge walk, Chicago Zoo, Fireworks on lake Michigan, Museum of Science, Wrigley field for Major League Baseball, and even a spot of a shopping.

Even with such a spoiling choice, player Matthew Lovett said his highlight was the full access tour of the University of Notre Dame seeing all the sporting facilities.

Lovett added: “To see their indoor training facility, 24 man jacuzzi in the practise locker room, physio room and weights room used by the football team was just amazing.

“The history of Notre Dame and the fighting Irish Football team was truly unforgettable.”

While, Daniel Smith, U18B Captain, said: “ It was an amazing experience and a one that will never be forgotten.

“Getting to explore new surroundings and magnificent places while meeting new faces was an amazing aspect of the tour.

“With playing rugby came a big challenge which we matched and succeeded in, coming away with a well-deserved victory in the Great Lake 7’s.”

By Clarissa Murphy