General Editor Lionel Sandner
Publisher Edvantage Interactive
Production Support
Lynda Mason
ISBN 978-1-77249-656-7
Photo Credits
Pages 18 to 20: Tourism Victoria
Page 19: © Can Stock Photo / aiisha
Tour Photographer: Sean Hayes
The Claremont Spartan rugby program would like to thank all the sponsors in our Tour Book for supporting our fundraising efforst to travel to the United Kingdom and Ireland to play rugby, watch rugby and have an experience of a lifetime.
Claremont has a long tradition of excellence in the sport of rugby dating back to the school's founding in 1962. Over the years the many different tours, wins and loses have formed the foundation for today's program and current team.
Claremont has a long tradition of excellence in the sport of rugby dating back to the school's founding winning numerous Howard Russell city titles, Island Championships and regularly competing at the Provincial Championships. In recent years the Junior team has won the City Championship and regularly competes for the Island Championship. At the Senior level Claremont competes in the Tier 1 AAA league and regularly contends for the City Championship, also regularly attending the Provincial 15’s and 7’s Championships. Many current players are playing representative rugby at the Regional, Provincial and National levels.
Current Head of Rugby, Mr. Phil M. Ohl holds both a Phys Ed. and a “Masters in Coaching Studies” degree from the University of Victoria. His 16 years of coaching experience ranges from Mini Rugby through University level. He serves as head coach for the boys teams and teaches the Rugby PE courses. Mr Ohl is assisted by several members of the teaching staff, parent volunteers and numerous guest coaches. Guest coaches regularly include Regional, Provincial, University, Premier and National level players and coaches.
During the 1960's, 70's and 80's the school regularly competed for, and won, the Howard Russell city title and Island Championship. The school has produced several National Team players including: Casey Walt, Rob Robson, Mick Eckardt and Ray Rogers. Each of these player’s rugbycareer is highlighted on the Claremont Secondary Sports Wall of Fame along with other world class and Olympic athletes that attended the school.
During the early years three international tours were undertaken. First in 1970 the team travelled to Los Angeles. This was considered a rather big trip during this time period and by all accounts the team represented the school well. This tour was followed by trips to the United Kingdom in 1975 and 1980. During these tours games were played at various towns and cities including Bletchely, Burnham, Bridgewater and Aberystwyth.
You will notice in the pictures the players are wearing letters on their jerseys and not numbers. During the 80’s the rugby coaches at Claremont believed every player should be familiar with all positions on the team. Rather than have the traditional numbers for the first fifteen, letters were substituted. The result was players gained a deeper understanding of the roles each team member played during the game.
largest event in western canada
Spartan Scrum Fest is an annual one of a kind high school rugby tournament held at Claremont each April. It is the largest event of its kind in western Canada featuring 30 local, regional and internationalteams (i.e. Western Canada, UK and Australia). Students are involved in all aspects of running the event, as well as being afforded the opportunity to play a variety of international opponents.
Being a Spartan rugby player at Claremont Secondary means giving back to the community. From volunteer work within the school for various events to introducing elementary children to the sport of rugby. Each year players take time to visit each elementary school in the area to introduce 8 to 10 year old to the sport of rugby. One day we may see some of these children wearing the Spartan colours on the pitch.
Currently the school's boys teams feature more than 90 athletes divided between the Junior (grades9-10) and Senior (grades11-12) teams. These teams are among the strongest and most successful on the Island.
The recent IRB and media focus on 7-A-Side rugby has lead to the creation of a local Girls 7's league in Victoria. The Claremont Girls Team competes in this league March-May each year.
Since our commencement in 1979, CPCM & Co.’s continued growth and success has resulted from its strong commitment to providing clients with “hands-on” service. The partners and professional staff offer a wealth of experience in accounting, taxation as well as many business advisory services. We are actively involved in the community as volunteers for various community based organizations. These activities help us better appreciate and understand the various Societies and Institutions that make our community a better place. We are all very proud of our commitment to our community. We establish a close and knowledgeable rapport with each client in order to deliver timely, relevant, and effective service. Ultimately, we are successful because our clients are successful. We strive to be an integral part of our clients’ success.
The team of professionals at CPCM & Co. are pleased to provide the following services.
• Financial statement preparation and reporting
• Notice to Reader compilation engagements
• Review Engagement Report engagements
• Corporate and personal tax planning and preparation
• General tax advisory services including corporate, personal, estates and trusts
• Estate and succession planning
• Family Trusts
• Corporate reorganizations
• Shareholder agreements
• Scientific Research & Experimental Development Tax credits
• Structuring a purchase or sale of a business
• Business plans
• Assistance with starting a business
Good luck to all the players, coaches and the team manager on their 2018 Scotland, Ireland, England and Wales tour.
Have a great trip and treasure every moment and memory you create with your lads.
Located on the West Coast of Canada, Victoria British Columbia is known as the City of Gardens. Most residents will point to the mild climate and natural beauty as two features best define the city. But here are some other features that make the Claremont boys happy to call Victoria home.
mild winters and dry summers
Throughout the year average daily temperatures vary from 7 oC to 21 oC. The traditional view of cold Canadian winters does not apply to this city. In fact, as early as February cherry blossoms and daffodils begin to bloom. And that means there is rugby to be played all year long.
1843 by the Hudson's Bay Fur Trading Company
Victoria was established as Fort Victoria in 1843 by the Hudson’s Bay Fur Trading Company and was incorporated as a city in 1862. Since 1871 Victoria has been the capital of British Columbia with a current population of approximately 366,000.
the saanich nation All part of the Saanich Nation of Coast Salish peoples, the Songhees, Esquimalt, Tsartlip, Tseycum, Pauquachin, Scia'new, Tsawout and T'Sou-ke Nations are all important communities that have long called Southeastern Vancouver Island home.
all observable in a day
Within a day’s travel you could observe a salmon spawning run, brown bears in their natural habitat, bald eagles feeding in the grove of Douglas fir trees and whales breeching the surface of the local waters. In fact, there are over 80 species of mammals in the region. For many visitors, a whale watching tour is a ‘mustdo’ activity. Victoria's waters are home to three resident pods of orca whales.
Victoria offers something for everyone when it comes to exploring the outdoors. From hikes in local parks, biking on hundreds of kilometers of trails, to kayaking on the Pacific Ocean, to golfing, fishing and skiing at Island resorts. There is no shortage of outdoor adventures. With this much choice, it’s no surprise why Victorians are happy to call this home.
Logan Auringer
scrum half
Rugby is a sport where you get hit and really dirty. Also it’s a little bit hard to pick up on at first.
Evan Boothroyd inside centre
A fast paced game with a lot of hitting. You don’t wear any pads. After every game you become friends with your opposition.
Devon Boscik number 8
Always a very good time in a very inclusive environment.
Nathan Candela outside centre
Rugby is the most amazing sport, great culture.
Liam Collins hooker
Rugby is testosterone and running into each other.
Alfredo Fuentes wing
Rugby is playing with friends and having fun.
Trenton Gach Prop
The best sport I’ve joined and it’s always fun.
prop
Rugby is one heck of a time with hard work and team work.
Jefferson outside centre
Rugby is a game that is fast where you can juke people.
Keith
Rugby is hitting hard and getting hit. Learning how to play as a unit.
inside centre
It’s like hockey minus the golf balls.
A fun, active sport with a lot of contact.
prop
There’s nothing like playing rugby with 15 of your mates.
Rugby is for boys. You gotta be top quality to play.
Mason McAdams flanker
Rugby is like getting into a bunch of mini car accidents.
Max Melling prop
A rough team sport similar to football, but more continuous, faster and looser. And when you win it feels so good.
Keegan Neary full back
Rugby is hard hitting, fast paced and exhilarating. venenatis tristique urna id lacinia.
Loukas Papaloukas hooker
A great way to fun with a good group of guys. It’s a good game to play.
Josh Phillips scrum half
It’s like football, but you pass backwards. And, you wear no pads so it’s tougher than football.
Gareth Sandner fly half
Have you ever time travelled? Well, it’s nothing like that, but it’s a whole lot of fun.
Smallwood wing
Rugby is a good time with the lads.
flanker
When you’re out there “in the zone”, giving it all to make tackles, running, passing, rucking and so much more…
Noah Thomas number 8
Working together as a team to achieve a goal.
Loki Zeisig wing
Wallace (Wally) Trotter manager
Rugby is lots of passing and kicking.
Connor Way outside centre
Rugby is just an amazing time.
An awesome and intense sport that’s quite friendly and easy to understand after a while.
Jake Zhao full back
Rugby is a fun and fast paced game.
Adam GeggieBowker number 8
Rugby is a fun, intelligent game that the smartest meatheads play.
Lane Geggie-Bowker scrum half
Rugby is super fun and I enjoy it a lot.
Ryan Boothroyd inside center
A fun sport that may be a bit confusing at first, but it’s a blast to play.
Oliver Elbourne flanker
Unlike football, rugby is a real sport; no pads, no helmet, no teeth!
Kyle Howarth lock
A good way to get your stress out, meet new people and have a good time.
Joseph Hyde hooker
Rugby is nothing like football.
Kai Khan full back
It’s fun.
Rylan Knudsen scrum half
A lot of fun to play especially when it’s with people you work well with.
Laitinen number 8
My favourite sport. I encourage everyone to come out and watch.
Jordan Talbot fly half
Caleb Milette-Barker scrum half
You tackle somebody and steal the ball; score a try and get 5 points, 2 for a conversion.
It’s physical, skillful and fun. Played by meatheads.
Liam Poulton wing
You get dirty! It’s a hard, fast game and has lots of contact.
Joel Tudor hooker
It’s something that everyone can play. It’s a game where you do everything.
Caleb Sam wing
Rugby is a good way to meet new people and make new friends.
Owen Sparshu fly half
It’s like football, but better. And remember, you can only pass backwards.
Benjamin Wray prop
Fun and full of teamwork with great kids. A very respectful sport in a caring, safe way.
The Claremont rugby program strives to support our studentathletes in their growth and development as rugby players, students and as contributing members of the community. As rugby players, students will develop their skills, fitness and tactical awareness.
There is a strong focus on fundamental skill development, while also implementing the most current tactical strategies being used in the game. Players of all experience levels are welcome to join at any time although a four year approach is encouraged.
Students are expected to maintain high academic standards. Students are regularly engaged in community outreach through the running of both school and community events including tournaments and clinics.
Sean Hayes vice-principal, and tour manager
Adam Ravenhill assistant coach
Dr. Tom Browne was my high school Principal at Parkland Secondary. He was always a visible presence in halls, classrooms and of course on the field. He was an avid supporter of all school sports, but had a particular affinity for rugby. In retirement, Dr. Browne became the Head of Student-Teacher Practicums at the University of Victoria. It was he who placed me at Claremont Secondary despite my repeated requests to return to Parkland. He told me that I needed to see and experience other places. He explained to me what a wonderful staff and school culture Claremont had and the role he envisioned for me. I am forever grateful to him for his foresight and support.
Don "Burge" Burgess taught and coached in SD#63 for 39 years! He was my teacher and coach for 4 years at Parkland. I fondly remember my first day of classes. I arrived at the gym for PE class. Burge looked me up and down and informed me that my presence was required at rugby practice the next day. The rest is history! Burge was a very skilled coach, but his greatest strengths were the dedication and perseverance he demonstrated daily in his efforts to support his players and our teams. He would do whatever was necessary to ensure his players were in attendance at practices and games. He would routinely drive a half dozen of us to and from games and was always willing to facilitate conversations with teachers, or employers. His tireless extra efforts are what I remember and appreciate most about him. He was the inspiration for my becoming a teacher and coach. While attending university I worked along side him as an assistant coach at Parkland for 5 years. In later years he would often visit and we would talk about our days at Parkland together, and whatever challenges I was facing in my teaching and coaching. He was an inspiration, mentor and friend!
Phil Ohl Head of Rugby, Claremont Secondary
"This past year School District #63 and the rugby community of Greater Victoria lost two legends! These two men, each in their own way, are responsible for the direction of my career. I dedicate my coaching and organizational efforts this season to their memories."
Phil Ohl
–Dr. Tom Browne –Don Burgess
Practice, meeting, gathering up your kit, getting to the airport, finally getting on the plane and taking off. All steps in getting ready to go on Tour.
"Oh the places you'll go"
– Dr Suess
Day 1 blends into Day 2 with travel from Victoria, BC to London, England via Vancouver and Amsterdam. And no time for sleep after clearing customs as the team heads to see London Bridge, Big Ben (albeit under construction), the Eye and the historic river Thames. Luckily sleep at the Premier Inn awaits.
The journey not the arrival matters
- T.S. Eliot
Leaving London and down the M4 towards Cardiff and then head North to Swansea Valley. First night with our hosts at Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera.
Highlights
Finally playing rugby. So now it's offically a rugby tour. Also, . Driving on the wrong side of the road!
. The hospitality of our hosts.
3: Friday March 16, 2018
Day 4: Saturday March 17, 2018
First game (41-19 for the hosts)
Post game reception
Time with hosts –On the Road
A great start to our Tour. The boys are traveling well and representing themselves, the school and the team very well.
Our group of 48 all arrived at the Victoria airport by 9:40 Wednesday morning. Our flight left as scheduled at 11:35 and we arrived in Vancouver at 12:00pm. We had approximately 4 hours at YVR before boarding our KLM flight. It was a 9+ hour flight to Amsterdam. There we had only 45mins to make our connecting flight to Heathrow, which was very tight! We arrived in London at approximately 12:00pm. Clearing customs and collecting our luggage took about an hour.
Nothing beats traveling 8 time zones in 24 hours for the chance to lie down in a real bed!
We met our coach bus and driver Mr. Mark Evans. He drove us into London for a walking tour. We were dropped off at the Tower of London. We walked across Tower Bridge and proceeded down the Thames via the riverside walkway. We passed Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and saw many landmarks including the Eye Wheel, St Paul’s Cathedral, HMS Belfast and more. We crossed the Thames at Westminster Bridge, pausing to see Parliament and Big Ben, which unfortunately was only partially visible behind scaffolding. We then walked up Whitehall St passing the British Prime Minister’s residence #10 Downing St, before arriving in Trafalgar Square. The boys took a few minutes to climb the giant lions and take in their surroundings. The sun was now setting. Next, we walked a few blocks to Piccadilly Circus, the Times Square in London. The lights, video
boards and overall buzz in the square was amazing. The boys enjoyed 45mins of shopping in Lillywhites, a 7-story sports store! We finished our walk by strolling down the Mall towards Buckingham Palace where we met up with Mark and the bus. Enroute to our hotel, back at Heathrow, we stopped for a quick pizza dinner.
The next morning, we enjoyed our hotel breakfast, and departed London for Wales and our first hosts. The 3-hour drive was broken up by a quick lunch stop at the outlet mall. We arrived at the Welsh host school at 1:00.
We had a light practice 1-2:00 before officially meeting our billets in the schools dining hall. Players were matched/introduced to the billets, who then took our guys home for dinner and social time.
We all met back at the school the next morning at 9:00am. Of note, it was St Patrick’s Day! Both first and second XVs kicked off their respective games at 10:00am. After the matches we all convened in the dining hall for lunch (traditional Welsh stew) and the awards ceremony. Gareth and Payne, as respective team captains, thanked the hosts and handed out the gifts and recognitions. The boys were then taken back home with their billets for an afternoon of rest and watching 6 Nations on the TV.
Leaving our friends in Wales, we travel across the Irish Sea to Ireland. Beaches, the smell of the ocean and history permeates throughout this land. It's a bit like home and not at all like home. Exactly what a Tour is meant to be.
Day 5: Sunday March 18, 2018 Departure from
Day 6: Monday March 19, 2018 Sight seeing around New Ross. Second XV game
Highlights
Mechanical problems cancels our ferry, but having the best bus driver in the world get us to Ireland on a different ferry. Four hours on a ferry is a lot longer than 95 minutes on a BC ferry.
We've got our traveling legs now and with two games under our belt we're starting to come together as a team.
Highlight
March 18th saw the arrival of snow in our part of Wales. Overnight approximately 2 cm of snow fell in town, with considerably more in the outlying areas where some boys were being billeted. The snow delayed the arrival of several boys, but we eventually departed our Welsh hosts around 9:30am. The goodbyes were heartfelt and sincere. It was clear that the boys had formed quick but strong bonds with their host families. The coaches were thrilled to hear all the positive feedback coming from the host parents. We headed west towards the cost and our ferry to Ireland. Enroute we received notification that our scheduled ferry crossing from Fishguard to Rossiare had been canceled. We assumed it was due to poor weather, but later learned it was mechanical in nature. Luckily our driver Mark was able to switch our reservation to another ferry, departing from Pembroke. This ferry departed later in the day and was a 4-hour crossing, rather than the previously scheduled 3-hour crossing. This fact caused some concern among several in the group, as the winds were high and we had been warned of the sometimes harsh conditions.
Nothing beats traveling 8 time zones in 24 hours for the chance to lie down in a real bed!
On the bright side, the later ferry allowed us to stop in the beautiful port town of Tenby. We arrived in Tenby at 11:00am and spent nearly 2 hours exploring the quaint town and shops, as well as the breathtaking beach and port. Favorite spots included the ancient fortifications on the bluff. The signs indicated that the stone structures dated back to the year 1245! Many photos were taken. We departed Tenby and drove through a network of country lanes, passing a number of castles and farm fields, eventually arriving in Pembroke. The ferry was larger than the BC ferry the boys are used to traveling on. It was well equipped, featuring multiple restaurants, shops and seating lounges. The ride was certainly rocky, but we are happy to report no one in our group fell ill.
We rolled off the ferry at 7:00pm and proceeded to New
Ross. We arrived at Brandon House Hotel at a few minutes past 8:00pm. We were greeted by New Ross Principal, Pat Rossiter. Mr. Rossiter went above and beyond, arranging a dinner for our group in the hotel restaurant. The roast beef, assorted vegetables and Yorkshire puddings were much appreciated by the boys! Given the St Patrick’s day weekend, New Ross was able to take 13 of our youngest boys as billets and the rest of the group remained in the hotel.
Day 6, March 19 our group enjoyed a wonderful breakfast in the hotel dining room. We were met at 10:00am by our boys who had been billeted and Mr. Rossiter. The group headed into New Ross, where we enjoyed the Dundrody museum. The theme of the museum was Irish hardship and emigration in the late 1800's. Mr. Ohl was thrilled to see many of the boys drawing connections between the content at the museum and their Social Studies lessons. The Dunbrody was a cargo ship used to transport both timber and immigrants back and forth to Canada and the USA. After the museum the boys enjoyed free time in the town. Many explored the John F Kennedy memorial, featuring both a perpetual flame and a life size statue located at the sight of his famous visit and speech in the 1960's. Kennedy's family originates from just outside the town of New Ross.
We returned to the hotel at 1:00 ahead of our 2:30 game. Unfortunately, the recent poor weather prevented the New Ross senior team from being available to play. While initially disappointing, an extra few days of rest will benefit our First XV, heading into their two remaining matches. As is tradition, we were hosted for a post-game reception at the club house. Mr. Rossiter, Mr. Hayes and Keegan (Captain) spoke and handed out our gifts. We returned to the hotel and the boys were able to access the fitness and pool facilities. Later that night we enjoyed another team dinner in the hotel dining room.
Through the ups and downs of travel we arrive in Dublin, Ireland and the heart of Irish rugby, Aviva Stadium. After visiting the stadium we explore the history of the city including Dublin Castle. A day later we're in Newcastle at the Hutt Hostel . Our new home away from home.
Day 7: Tuesday March 20, 2018
Depart New Ross for Dublin
Spend afternoon and evening in Dublin
Sightseeing Aviva Stadium Hotel stay
Highlight
Aviva Stadium
Watching the Shield Final and all the school colours on display
The amazing hospitality of Hutt Hostel owners
Emily and Patrick along with manager Stephanie
Day 8: Wednesday March 21, 2018
Sightseeing in the morning
Travel to Downpatrick
Training and lunch at Down High School
Attend Shield Final and visit Ravenhill Stadium for some shopping
Check into Hutt Hostel in Newcastle
Days 7 and 8
Along the East Coast of Ireland we travel from New Ross to Dublin and up to Newcastle experiencing Irish hospitality all the way.
Day 7, Tuesday March 20th: We woke up this morning and enjoyed our last meal at the beautiful Brandon House Hotel in New Ross. Our group arrived at this 4.5star hotel two nights ago. The players (ones not being billeted) and the staff have thrilled to the fabulous service and amenities. Highlights have included two team dinners in the hotel dining room. New Ross Principal, Mr. Pat Rossiter, generously provided both meals for our group.
Highlight
Nothing beats traveling 8 time zones in 24 hours for the chance to lie down in a real bed!
We departed New Ross at approximately 9:00am and made our way 2 hours north to the Irish capital city of Dublin. Our first stop was at the 55,000 seat Aviva Stadium, home of the Irish National Team. We arrived early and had time to walk around the outside of the stadium and adjoining neighborhood. Our stadium tour began at noon and lasted almost an hour and half. Highlights included: touring the home team dressing and recovery rooms, press/media rooms and walking out of the tunnel into the vast state of the art stadium. It was an awesome experience! We next boarded the bus and headed into downtown Dublin. The city was very busy, with lots of locals, as well as tourists. The bus dropped us off at the ancient Irish University of Trinity College. From there we walked down to Dublin Castle. The boys were put into small walking groups and allowed to explore the immediate area, which included several pedestrian thoroughfares, unique shops and historical buildings, etc. The group reconvened later in the afternoon, and then headed across the river into the modern part of the city for dinner. We met back up with the bus around 7:00pm and drove approximately 45 mins outside of the city center to the Travelodge hotel.
Day 8, Wednesday March 21: We departed the Travelodge at 8:30am. Our drive saw us winding along quaint country roads past ancient ruins and farms. We crossed the border into Northern Ireland and arrived in the
beautiful seaside town of Newcastle at 11:30am. Our host school Downpatrick was unable to billet our boys as a result of N. Ireland law, but one of their families owns the Hutt Hostel in Newcastle (20mins from the school). The hostel offered yet another unique experience for the group. The boys were divided into 5 dorm style rooms, with 8-10 beds per room. We were the only guests at the hostel each of the two nights. The boys enjoyed the common spaces (study and games/dining room) and worked together to prepare and clean up meals, as well as laundry, etc. The owners Emily and Patrick, as well as Stephanie the manager was incredibly generous and hospitable to us. Amazing people and place!
After dropping off our bags we re-boarded the bus and drove to Downpatrick school where we met Mr. Gareth McKillen, Vice Principal of Downpatrick HS. Downpatrick welcomed our boys into their school canteen and provided them a very nice lunch. The boys were quick to introduce themselves to the host students. We then boarded the bus again, this time heading into Belfast to watch Downpatrick's First XV play in the Shield Final of the local school boy’s competition. The atmosphere at the match was fantastic. There were approximately 300 students from each school dressed in their uniforms, flying their school colours, cheering their sides on lining their respective sidelines. Several in our group noted how much it reminded them of a scene from Harry Potter. After an epic battle featuring some excellent rugby, our hosts came up just short losing to their cross-town rival school.
After the match we walked the 15 mins over to Ravenhill Stadium, home of Ulster rugby. The boys enjoyed the team shop and made a significant contribution to the local economy. Our bus met us at the stadium and drove us back to the hostel for a quiet evening.
Highlight
Just another day of rugby in the rain.
Sailing the Irish Seaagain!
Belfast and Titanic docks, the Peace Wall and of course seeing the filming of Game of Thrones compimented our practice on the beach, game in the rain and leaving Northern Ireland for our final stop – Scotland.
Day 9: Thursday March 22, 2018
Sleep in!
Rugby on the beach
Dundrum Castle
Game vs Down High School and reception
Day 10: Friday March 23, 2018
Ferry to Scotland
First sights of Scotland
Meet up with hosts from Peebles High School
9 and 10
Castles, beaches, green fields and cathedrals shadow us wherever we go in our travels through Ireland and Northern Ireland. Friendly people are everywhere and happy to welcome us. Oh yeah, there's some rugby in there too!
Day 9, Thursday March 22: This morning was to have been our time to explore the large port town of Belfast, capital city of Northern Ireland. However, we chose to travel into Belfast Wednesday after watching the Shield final. Mark, our bus driver, took us on a roughly 2-hour bus tour through Belfast. Highlights included: the Titanic docks and museum, the Peace Wall which at one time literally divided the Catholic and Protestant halves of the city. We also twice drove past the set of "Games of Thorns" which was filming in the harbor area.
Highlight
By going into Belfast the day prior, we allowed ourselves a sleep-in and free morning in the stunning seaside town of Newcastle. We woke at 8:00am to find several members of our group had already prepared breakfast for us (cereal, porridge, toast, milk, orange juice, etc.).
Nothing beats traveling 8 time zones in 24 hours for the chance to lie down in a real bed!
After cleanup, we headed down to the beach for training. The tide was out, exposing large sand flats. We jogged down the beach until we found an area suitable in size for our large group. We played games of touch rugby and attempted to sort out a few set pieces. The natural beauty of the area was outstanding. It will certainly be a memorable experience, unlike any rugby training the boys are likely to experience again. The strong winds did make things a bit challenging though! We next headed back to the hostel to get ready for the day and matches. As it turns out the hostel was not well suited to having 40+ people all trying to shower at the same time. Many quick and brisk showers were had!
We departed the hostel at 11:30, making a stop at Tesco for lunch. From there we drove 20mins north to the ancient castle ruins of Dundrum Castle. The boys had a great time exploring and playing in the 13th century structure. The views from the towers overlooking the local country and seaside were amazing. We departed Dundrum at 1:30 and made our way back to Downpatrick High School. Of note, the school is named after the neighboring cathedral which is the rumored resting
place of the famous St. Patrick of Irish fame. The cathedral is visible in many of the match pictures as it stands on the highest spot in the area overlooking the town, school and rugby pitches.
After the matches Downpatrick again hosted us in their canteen, this time for dinner and an awards reception. After the reception we headed back to the hostel in Newcastle and enjoyed a quiet nights rest.
Day 10, Friday March 23: We woke at 7:30am, eating a basic breakfast and completing our many check-out tasks at the hostel (striping beds, emptying garbage, cleaning the kitchen, etc.). We were rolling by 8:30 headed back into Belfast to the Stena ferry terminal. We arrived an hour before departure time.
The Irish ferries have been outstanding! The size, amenities and overall quality of the boats has been impressive. Our voyage saw us again cross the Irish Sea, this time arriving in south-west Scottish town of Cairnryan.
From there we set off on a 3-hour trek, first up the rugged Scottish coastline through many seaside villages, then overland through traditional countryside and lastly entering the Boarder Mountain range. We skirted the major Scottish cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh but had no time to explore.
We arrived at our final host school, Peebles HS at 6:15pm. It was uplifting to see so many of the Peebles families lining the school's driveway to welcome us. As we departed the bus and collected our luggage, we were greeted by the warmest of Scottish welcomes. Mr. David Changleng had organized things on their end. He informed us that we are the 26th Canadian school Peebles has hosted in the last 26 years. Clearly, they have the process down to an art! The boys were introduced to their billets and host families, then headed off for dinner and a quiet night with their host families.
Day 11 is a rest day on the itinerary, but a busy day of rugby at Melrose RFC, Premier League game and an evening with our hosts at a Ceilidh. And our official full last day on Tour playing our final game.
Day 11: Saturday March 24, 2018
Melrose RFC
Tour Melrose Abby
Melrose vs Watsonians
Evening with hosts and Ceilidh
Day 12: Sunday March 25, 2018
Game vs Peebles High School
Reception at Peebles RFC
Edinburgh and sightseeing
Final team dinner
Highlights
Melrose RFC
Ceilidh
Last Tour game
Our final days on Tour includes Melrose RFC, a professional rugby match, dancing, rugby, sightseeing and team bonding activities. Yes, you read correctly, dancing!
Day 11, Saturday March 24: We woke this morning in the heart of the breathtaking Scottish Boarders village of Peebles. The boys were scattered about the area, some in the village and some out in rural farms. The sun was shining and for some the morning was filled with the diverse sounds of Scottish family farms. After a leisurely morning with host families, we assembled at Peebles HS. We welcomed aboard our bus Mr. Chanleng. He provided a guided tour as our bus meandered through fields and between stone buildings enroute to the Boarders town of Melrose.
Highlight
Nothing beats traveling 8 time zones in 24 hours for the chance to lie down in a real bed!
In Melrose, Mr. Chanleng arranged a special guided tour of the Melrose Rugby Football Club. This club dates back to the late 1800’s and is one of the most famous armature clubs in the UK. Aside from being one of the most successful clubs in Scotland, Melrose is also famous for being the birth place of 7-A-Side rugby. The club and grounds host the prestigious Melrose sevens event each April. Additionally, the international World Series of 7’s contested around the globe each year has as its trophy, the Melrose Cup. The club house was filled with an overwhelming amount of memorabilia and artifacts. Very cool stuff for a rugby fan!
Next Mr. Chanleng took the boys to the ancient Melrose Abbey. The stone structure and surround graveyard were over 900 years old. They made for a stunning backdrop while Mr. Chanleng skillfully simplified and explained to the boys the history of the Protestant-Catholic divide. After an hour for lunch in the village, we meet back at the club. We arrived in time to watch the full player warmups ahead of the Scottish Premier League semi-final (Melrose vs Watsonians). The quality of the rugby and the proximity to the play made for an outstanding experience. Much was learned! Our host Mr. Chanleng is a man of many hats and exceptional skills! He even ran touch at the game. Next, we headed back Peebles where we were met by our billets. The boys were taken home to eat and prepare for the Ceilidh (traditional Scottish country dance).
The boys, their billets and girls field hockey teams arrived at 8:00pm in the sports hall for the Ceilidh. Our boys were treated to an amazing cultural display. The dancing was similar to folk or line dancing. Most of our guys were apprehensive at first but were coerced into a dance or two by the field hockey girls. Much fun and adolescent awkwardness was had by all!
Day 12, Sunday March 25: Today we met at 9:15 at Peebles HS. Our First and Second XV’s played simultaneously on the two pitches. Kickoffs were at 10:00 am. The teams were lead onto the fields by a traditional Scottish bag piper! After the matches we headed into the village to the Peebles Rugby Club, located off high street, down a quaint laneway. The club house was well appointed in memorability! The host-extraordinaire, David Chanleng, organized a traditional hardy Scottish meal of Mince and Potatoes. After lunch, the post-match awards and host recognitions took place.
The group boarded our bus for the 45 min journey into Edinburgh. Mr. Chanleng had secured us tickets to the awe-inspiring Edinburgh Castle. We walked up the many stairs to the main castle gate. Located atop a prominent rocky outcrop in the city centre, stands this formidable and beautifully maintained castle. It’s the top tourist attraction in Scotland! We enjoyed a brief history lesson from David before parting ways. The group was then given an hour and a half to explore the many levels, rooms, courtyards, terraces, and chambers of the castle. Highlights included: the Scottish Crown Jewels, 1:00 Gun and the stunning 360-degree views of the city and surrounding area.
After the castle we walked along the Royal Mile, exploring many shops. We finish our day in Edinburgh by walking along Princess St. and finding various dinner options. We then headed back to our hotel by the airport for what we thought was our final night in the UK.
Sometimes plans don't quite go the way you expected. As many parents have said, "When travel plans go sideways, the adventure begins."
Day 13, Monday March 26: This morning we all woke early and enjoyed what we believed would be our final meal in the UK, breakfast at our hotel. We made our way to the Edinburgh airport and said a fond goodbye to our bus driver, Mr. Marc Evans of Wales. Upon entering the airport, we were informed that we were not going to be able to catch our scheduled flight to Amsterdam. The staff spent the next many hours working the phones, speaking with the airlines and travel companies. The boys were tremendously patient and well behaved. Fortunately, the Edinburgh airport is not a bad place to spend a few hours. It had lots of shops, restaurants, coffee shops, etc. Out of a desire to stay module and adaptable, the decision was made to spend the night at the airport. The airport staff was very helpful providing us with blankets and a suitable place to gather.
Day 14, Tuesday March 27: By morning our alternative travel plans were confirmed. We were to depart out of London on a flight bound to Seattle. We were able to make arrangements to travel to London on a charter bus. The 9-hour drive south to London saw us traversing through spectacular Scottish, then English countryside. Upon arrival in London we checked into a hotel near the Heathrow airport for the night, allowing us all a good night’s sleep.
Day 15, March 28: We woke up very early and made the walk over to the airport via the long-covered walkway. After a brief train ride, we arrived at our correct terminal. Our flight departed London at 9:30am and arrived in Seattle at 11:10 local time. A charter bus met us at SeaTac and were driven back into Canada and arrived at the Tsawwassen ferry terminal in time to catch the 5:00pm ferry back to the island.
There were many joyous smiles and hugs upon our arrival. Our groups patients and resilience had certainly been tested, but we had safely arrived back in Victoria, stronger for our experience!
The Vikes men’s rugby team wish you all the best. Have a great tour.
One extra ferry ride, two extra bus rides, a few more border crossings and a nicer plane and we're home.
We play as a team, we travel as a team, we are at our best as a team, we are Spartan Rugby.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this Tour a reality. And a special thanks to our coaches for leading and mentoring us both on and off the field.
All the talent in the world
won't take you anywhere without your teammates -anonymous
