Last Friday, the Colts, joined by the U16s who have been training with them since January, sat down to celebrate a great season of rugby and for some, an end of an era. They were joined by our President, Dick Craig and Chairman, Adrian Hobbs as well as their coaches, some of whom will be hanging up their boots and whistles. We said a sad goodbye to David Steene, Steve Nethercote, Bruce MacGregor, Mark Lynch and Karen Stirrup.

The departing Colts, many who have been with us since the Rats, were offered a memento of a key ring by John Sheffer, which, in his words, will open doors for them, will help them drink beer and will remind them of what a great squad they had, what great teams they had, and of how they must remember and value what being part of this rugby club has taught them.

We hope to see many of these young men playing in the senior teams in the near future.

The evening culminated with the traditional awards being presented to the U16s, U17s & U18s:

The President’s Award for sportsmanship and exemplary behaviour was presented to Shay Barney Fagan, Rowan Simpson and Max Johnson

The Chairman’s Award for the most improved player was presented to Maverick Roberts-Baxter, Rory Williamson and Zach Poucher

The Player’s Award for the most accomplished player was presented to James Scully-Martin, Jonny Grieveson and Jack Feeney

Roux Ferreira-Coleman received the Player’s Player shield

The Caledonia Cup was donated by Jamie Horsley’s family and is awarded to the player who demonstrates the spirit of rugby & core values and was awarded to Rob Jones to a standing ovation, whilst the Anne Power Cup is awarded to a player who has developed their rugby at Ealing Trailfinders from Minis to Youth and who has contributed to Ealing Trailfinders off the field as much as on the field and went to Arran Blackman.

A memorable evening indeed!