With barely a handful of returning athletes and only a few players who had ever played the game of rugby before, the coaches of the U16 Rugby team knew this was going to be a tough season. Improving with every game, the U16 team did their best to match very competitive teams from Appleby College, Trinity College School, and Crescent School. While the team did not manage to get on the scoreboard during these games, their effort, heart, and class were never in question. Our regular season ended with a home fixture against Upper Canada College. Both teams entered the game without a win, and we knew this was our best chance to finally score and maybe even secure our first victory. We scored early and often, with breakout performances from Will Kollis, Noah Aitoro, Cole Martins, and Tanner Shillum, resulting in a 43-5 victory and the highlight of our season. It was a whole team effort, which earned us a spot in the semi-finals and a rematch against Appleby College. While our playoff trip to Oakville was one-sided, coaches Keating, Farrugia, and I were impressed with the resolve and dedication this group of young men brought to the game and the season. They were eager to learn, consistently sought to improve, and never gave up. They all learned a great deal about rugby and were a fantastic group to coach. While each game brought more experience and greater improvement, it also brought an avalanche of concussions and injuries. I would be remiss if I did not recognize the efforts of our amazing athletic therapy team. Heather, Natalie, and Jacky thank you for your support and for piecing our team back together.

This year's most improved player started the year as a reserve for the backs but quickly made his way into the starting line-up due to injury. Once there, he did not disappoint. Despite his size, he executed fearless tackles. We relied on his defensive consistency, especially against opponents who knew how to move the ball quickly to the outside. He stopped Appleby College from another three tries in the semi-finals when he filled in for our missing fullback. He had a breakout game against UCC, earning his first try and accolades from the sideline. The U16 Rugby MIP is Tanner Shillum. The most valuable player was highly contested. Cole Martins returned from injury, making incredible tackles, winning the battle at the gain line. Noah Aitoro went for huge runs, attacking from the back of the scrum and finding impressive angles off the backs in full flow. Andrew Brown and Will Plaxton stepped up their leadership during games and practices, ensuring an organized, creative, and impressive backline. Our MVP was the backbone of our defense – tackling with such extreme intensity, which made many of his opponents think twice about running at him again. He could be counted upon to always put the team first, playing prop, flanker, or number 8 whenever an injury required a change. He was a selfless player, constantly putting his body on the line to hit almost every ruck rather than look for glory carrying the ball. However, that did not stop him from going for field-long runs against both UCC and Appleby. He was always at practice, seeking to improve his skills and rugby IQ every time he was on the pitch, and he is certainly tough as nails. The U16 MVP is Will Kollis.

Story by Anthony Gilroy, U16 Rugby Coach