The pandemic sadly meant we had a two-year break from Old Boys Rugby Sevens and so it was wonderful to have the event back this year. Many thanks to ON Harry Pennells for organising it and for sharing the following with us after the big day.

Old Boys 7s returns to Longford’s hallowed turf after a two-year hiatus!

"It was a great pleasure to organise and take part in Old Boys Sevens on Sunday 28th of August; the weather was kind to us and provided great conditions for the games to go ahead. Despite a few last-minute drop-outs, the day went ahead and was saved by a strong turnout from the Class of 2018 and the Class of 2020, with a few welcome additions from the Classes of 2019 and 2017. As always, it was great to get a few good games in and even better to catch up with each other.

"We managed three games, with the teams mainly made up from 2018 and 2020 going head-to-head for two fast-paced matches. Despite their best efforts and brilliant spirit, the 2020 team was comprehensively beaten in both games. After a good break and time to rehydrate and socialise between each game, we finalised the afternoon with a mixed match incorporating everyone that turned out on the day, playing 12-a-side  (with a few subs for good measure). The scores were tight here and the game was a great watch, with both sides having the chance to play some great rugby and score some brilliant tries, despite fitness levels that clearly weren’t what they once were! The match ended with a close score of 19-12.

"The afternoon finished with the trophy presentation to the Class of 2018 who put in a great shift and have retained the trophy since the last tournament was held (pre-covid) in 2019. The majority of those that turned out were then found shortly after at local watering holes reminiscing over good times shared at school and a great afternoon of rugby.

"We are hoping to build on the turnout next year and propose a few changes to the event, which has historically been held on the Sunday of August Bank Holiday weekend. We propose reshuffling the dates of the event to the end of July, as well as introducing a touch tournament alongside the contact tournament which could be great to bring back some of the more senior attendees and allow them to catch up with old faces."

Harry Pennells, Class of 2018

A few photos of the day can be viewed below and details of next year's event will be shared on our new alumni portal, ONs Connect, so keep a lookout!