Huntingdon & District RUFC’s impressive display on the rugby field was showcased on ITV’s Premiership Rugby Highlights show, where they were featured in a special segment called ‘Grass Roots Beauts’ on June 2 at 8pm on ITV4. The segment highlighted the team’s exceptional try during the Papa John’s Community Cup Quarter Final.
The remarkable play was the result of a perfectly executed sequence, starting with Rory Parker securing the ball from a scrum and passing to replacement scrum half JJ Ward. JJ efficiently delivered the ball to the team’s fly-half and top points scorer, Joe Hicken. Following a predetermined play from director of rugby Simon Leader’s playbook, Joe found Jamie Gunn at inside centre, before cleverly wrapping around to receive the return pass, reminiscent of a classic “Sexton Style” maneuver, and scoring a magnificent try on his debut for the first XV.
Under the proficient leadership of Simon Leader, Huntingdon & District RUFC has had a remarkable season, culminating in reaching the Papa Johns Community Cup Counties 2 North Shield Final at Darlington Stadium on Sunday, May 12. The team’s journey to the finals included a dramatic victory against Handsworth and a heart-stopping semi-final win over Coalville.
Beyond their on-field success, the club has prioritised building a strong foundation for its future. With a clear pathway for talented young players to progress to the senior team, the club is fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration between coaches across all age groups. This dedication has resulted in a fantastic club culture, making the season a memorable one for both players and supporters.
The success and growth of Huntingdon & District RUFC not only bode well for the club’s future, but also contribute to the development of the sport at grassroots level. The team’s demonstration of exceptional skill and sportsmanship is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff, and it serves as an inspiration for aspiring young rugby enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the remarkable achievements of Huntingdon & District RUFC on the rugby field reflect not only the talent and dedication within the team but also the commitment to nurturing the next generation of rugby players. Their appearance on ITV’s Premiership Rugby Highlights serves as a recognition of their outstanding skill and sportsmanship, and we look forward to witnessing more inspiring performances from the team in the future.