Army Masters Squad being put through their paces on the first day of training by WO2 Gareth Slade Jones.
Some of the forwards getting well acquainted with the Bermudan scrummage machines as they go through their drills prior to the first game. WO2 Limbrick RE (Capt) getting through some lineout work as they look to get the edge in the first game.
Whilst the forwards perfect their moves the backs recruit some young up and coming talented youth from local schools. We helped run two Community Sport Outreach Programme evenings. A lot of these young players showed immense talent and a lot of speed.
1st Fixture – A curtain raiser for World Classic Rugby Semi Finals vs Bermudan BaaBaas. A close 1st half but Masters pulled away in 2nd half. A great win for the Army, 45-12.
The Army Masters Squad enjoying a Team meal at Flanagan’s in Hamilton.
Army Masters Squad were given the privilege to join The Royal Bermuda Regiment, Police and other public services and Veterans as they march to the Bermudan Cenotaph in the Bermudan Capital of Hamilton. This was a very proud moment for all involved.
A wreath was laid by Col Sandy Fitzpatrick (Director of the Army Masters) at the Cenotaph followed by a photograph. The squad were then hosted by the Military and the Veterans at a lunch after the parade.
The final game vs a strengthened Bermuda BaaBaas which included some Classic Italian, US and Canadian players.
A Minutes Silence being observed prior to the second game.
The second game played in difficult conditions more akin to UK winter weather. The rain was still wet and the wind cold, but it soon calmed down.
Condition’s improved in the second half as the Army Masters showed their class and ran out eventual winners with a 38-21 win in the second game.
Both Squads coming together at the end of a hard game.
We were then asked to provide some players for the Classic Lions and Classic All Blacks.
British and Irish Lions Classics – WO2 Scotty Kelly, WO2 Sooty Sutton, Maj Ben Birbeck, Cpl Kapa Kapawei and SSgt Rhydian Slade Jones
All Blacks Classics – Cpl VK Vukinavanua
A remembrance service held on the beach organised by WO2 Scotty Kelly. Two readings were read by Col Sandy Fitzpatrick and WO2 Scotty Kelly before a minutes silence was observed. To the squads surprise other hotel guests, World Classic Players and the public joined us in the service.
Cpl Kapa Kapawai leading a song accompanied by the other Fijian players.
The final photograph of a successful tour – 9 Days – two outreach events, two games, lots of training, one Remembrance Parade, one Remembrance Service and no serious injuries.
