Rugby is the Key Sport in the Autumn Term at Stowe. The Rugby programme caters for all pupils whether they are seeking a professional career in the game or simply enjoying participating at their own level. We welcome all and believe the coaching structure helps players of all abilities to achieve their maximum potential.

Opportunity for Participation

  • There are 15 teams: 5 Senior teams,U16A-C, U15A-C and U14A-D
  • 85% of the Yearlings represented Stowe Rugby in 2018 season
  • Coaching is available for players of all abilities, with all teams training 3 days a week
  • All pupils are able to trial when they arrive in the Third Form with non-contact rugby an option
  • The end of season Inter-House rugby tournament is a highlight for every student to be involved in the sport
  • The Seniors, Colts and Junior Colts have pre-season residential trips every summer with the Yearlings having a UK tour in the October Half Term

Performance

  • The 1st XV participate in a weekly strength & conditioning programme, video analysis and position specific sessions, as well as pilates and pool recovery sessions to maximise their development.
  • Our 1st XV have all their fixtures against Daily Mail Schools Trophy status teams.
  • We currently have 18 boys representing either Northampton Saints or Wasps Academies.
  • The Seniors will embark on a major overseas tour every two years with Zimbabwe the destination in 2020.
  • The U15s enter the Natwest Cup and all age groups enter the Rosslyn Park National 7s tournament in the Spring Term where Stowe won as recently as 2016.
  • All A teams and the 1st and 2nd XV’s have two coaches assigned to them.
  • Pre-season tours are organised for 3 age groups every summer and the Yearlings have a rugby tour in the October Half Term.
  • We have very strong links with both Northampton Saints and Wasps Academies who regularly use our facilities for training and matches.


Facilities

We are fortunate to have one of the most iconic 1st XV pitches in the country with the spectacular North Front. This is a truly inspiring and aspirational setting for pupils and staff. Pupils also train on the Bourbon site where we have an additional 7 rugby pitches.

Coaches

The rugby is headed up by our Head of Rugby - Grant Seely; RFU Level 4 Coach and former player for Northampton Saints and England. Regular coaching visits by professional coaches are arranged during the season to add positional specific expertise to the programme. In addition there are many highly experienced coaches among the academic staff.