The Under 8s currently have a playing squad of 15 players which means we are able to put out at least two teams of five players in tag fixtures against other clubs on a weekly basis.

We continue to welcome new recruits and Sam Burden (Hugh’s son) is our chief scout and head of recruitment having been very successful in persuading several fellow friends and classmates at local school Greenbank to come down to the club and try rugby for the first time. Great work, Sam! This has served to create a successful blend of seasoned veterans (this is Harvey Millen’s fourth season in the MRC minis) and new players in their first season. All new players that want to try rugby for the first time are very welcome to join us any Sunday morning.

There’s a really good atmosphere in the Under 8s as all the kids get along really well. Hugh and Andy (bad cop/good cop!) try to make the sessions as fun as possible by introducing and playing themed games and drills whilst at the same time trying to instil the basics of rugby to include running forwards, passing backwards and general space awareness.

We are especially proud to support the First XV against Southport today as the MRC First XV coach, Simon Ogdon, is the father of one of our star (and only female) players, Fiore Ogdon. Many people will know that Simon works for Sale Sharks as a Community Coach – so of course there’s no pressure on Hugh and Andy then when Simon is on the touchline (with his very large dog) supporting Fiore!
We have a hectic fixture schedule as we move into the second half of the season. Then it’s on to full contact rugby from next season – the kids can’t wait!

Andy Millen – Under 8s Coach