Trinity College School’s Bigside boys rugby team headed to Trinidad and Tobago over March Break for their first rugby tour in almost 10 years. Leading up to the break, the committed group of 17 boys practiced weekly in order to prepare for three games against the Trinidadian National Under-19 team.
The trip started with a driving tour of the city of Port of Spain, followed by an afternoon practice. The following day, Saturday, March 11th, saw the boys playing in their first game, in 30-degree temperatures under a hot tropical sun. The Bears played well, winning 20-15.
The following days consisted of some sightseeing on a boat trip “down island,” and rest and relaxation at the local beach. The second game, on March 14th, was a closer affair, with the team battling through some bumps, bruises and sunburns to secure a 15-15 draw.
The team then travelled to the island of Tobago for a snorkelling and boat adventure to the Nylon Pool and Buccoo Reef. This part of the trip was a highlight for many of the students, and the team bonding was evident as the gameplay and chemistry improved leading into the third and final match. With both teams showing significantly better attack structure and continuity, the game was a battle. Unfortunately for the Bears, the Trinidadian side scored in the final play of the game to win by a score of 25-20.
The coaches are thrilled with the athletes’ progress and look forward to the positive impact this tour will have on the upcoming CISAA league season.
- By Matt Murray, coach
