16 June 2021

Past CCGS First XV Rugby players return to support the next generation

CCGS rugby old boys with current First XV team

Saturday 15 May saw the CCGS First XV Rugby team play their first home game of the season, a highly anticipated match against rivals Chevalier College, and the first game to be held on home ground since COVID.

To mark the occasion, past CCGS Rugby players were invited back to show their support, provide some words of wisdom for the current team and reminisce about their own playing days.

Each year, since the school was established in 1985, there has been a CCGS First XV Rugby team.

“Rugby teaches young people that you can’t give up and you shouldn’t fear losing. When you play Rugby, you are there with your mates. And when you’re with your mates, achieving on the sporting field, your self-esteem rises. That’s very important for wellbeing and gives young adults a sense of belonging,” said Senior Rugby convenor and Director of Sport, Paul Geddes.

Current First XV rugby team

The following past players returned to present jerseys to the current team, with many others also coming along to show their support and cheer on the boys:

  • Glen King
  • Cameron Mudge
  • Steve Mudge (1988 and 1989)
  • Lee Bailey
  • Josh Harrod
  • Harrison Mogg (Captain 2019)
  • Corey Alpen (Captain 2020)
  • Harry Gray
  • Tom Curtis (Captain 2012)
  • Fionn Henderson-Foley (Captain 2016)
  • Damian Bransby
  • Ian Stewart 
  • Blake Berczelly (Captain 1992)

The day proved to be quite the family affair. Current First XV Vice Captain, Noah Stewart received the jersey from his father Ian Stewart, who played rugby for the CCGS First XV team in 1990. Current player Tim Wilkins received his jersey from brother, Damien Bransby, who was a member of the last CCGS First XV team to win the First XV competition back in 2005. 

Since 1985, 37 boys have held the auspicious title of Captain. Current First XV Captain, Angus Schoffl said, “It was a profound experience meeting the rugby legacy that came generations before us. As this is my last year at CCGS, this was one of my last Rugby games playing for the great green and gold. Being able to play in front of my peers, family and past CCGS students was really exciting! And having the support from those who have played for the School before was a special moment which I will cherish forever.”

CCGS rugby old boys

To continue the support of past players for CCGS Rugby, a past players Facebook group has been established.

“The purpose of the Facebook group is to share what’s going on week by week in Rugby, updates on game scores and share any upcoming events. More so, it is a place for past and current players to share rugby memories. We want to help create a culture where we embrace and support CCGS even once you’ve finished school,” said Cameron Jenkins, current team manager and founder of the CCGS Rugby Old Boys Facebook group.

If you’re a past CCGS rugby player search for “CCGS Rugby Old Boys” on Facebook. We look forward to welcoming more old boys at upcoming CCGS home games.