On Saturday Catterick Crusaders U8’s got their playing season underway at a festival, at Winlaton RU, hosted by Gateshead Storm.
Max B was the only player that wasn’t making his debut on Saturday. Bertie J had some experience having played the year before for Lancashire club Bank Quay Bulls. However, Benjamin N and the Le Cateau Primary School trio, Beauden C, Edward S and Freddie B were all new to the game.
The first game was against Cramlington Rockets, who were a very good team with some strong runners and good skills. The Crusaders boys however, held their own and spurred on by some fantastic tackles from Edward, they grew in confidence throughout. Both Max and Bertie used their pace to gain good metres on the edges, whilst Beauden and Benjamin are always going to be a handful with their jinking runs. Freddie really impressed his coaches with his concentration and technique in the tackle, getting better throughout the morning.
Next up was a game against Gateshead Storm who also had a number of players from Consett Eagles thrown in. Coach Jason had only asked that the players try to get more involved by maybe doing 1 tackle each or by always being available to run with the ball. They certainly did as they asked and they were all showing great character as the settled in to what was a great game.
With the planned fixtures done and dusted there was still a bit of time left in the recommended playing time, and so, Rockets and Crusaders had a rematch. Again the Crusaders players boost their confidence by playing some great Rugby League and left the field with big smiles.
Overall it was a very successful morning for this brand new team. Everyone had lots of fun and it was great to see them grow in confidence as the morning went on.
This week Crusaders U8’s have training on Saturday at 10am. Please get in touch if you’d like to get involved.