U7s shine bright in the sun

With June fast approaching and the summer break from rugby bringing a close to the season, the U7s were fortunate to receive a challenge from Bromsgrove to squeeze in one third and final fixture for the season.

Despite half term and the bank holiday weekend reducing the available numbers from both clubs, we were still able to field four teams for the closing fixture. In a fitting end to the season, the sun shone throughout the fixture, bathing Cooke fields in glorious weather for the spectators, though perhaps a touch wilting for the players who were certainly somewhat frazzled by the final whistle.

Across the four pitches, and playing four aside, the teams were presented with more space than in previous weeks. They all revelled in the new found opportunity to exploit the space. It is a clear feature of the Lichfield U7s that the players are able to look for and run into space, a core skill that will be vital in years to come. Players are increasingly confident to pass in open play as well as after the tag, working hard to support one another. It is a strong belief amongst the coaching team that the players understand and appreciate principles rather than being drilled into set play. Whilst the journey can be somewhat chaotic, the reward is the free flowing, independent rugby players that we have been able to see developing over the last three weeks. Lichfield U7s made the most of the good weather, excellent running conditions and extra space to play a wonderful free flowing, running and passing style of rugby that was exciting to watch. All of this to the sound of laughter, enjoyment and with smiles on their faces.

Bromsgrove presented a great opposition, with strong passing skills and a well organised defence that challenged our players to not only find the space but to make the space as well. We are incredibly grateful to their squad, supporters and coaching team for making the journey to visit us and look forward to returning the fixture in the new season.

The coaching team is incredibly proud of the achievements of this squad in what is a very limited space of time. The players all play with a smile on their face and a self confidence to give it a go, find space and work together seamlessly week to week. The players are challenged to compliment and critique their own gameplay and their responses show a growing understanding and enjoyment of the sport. It is a delight to see them all developing self confidence within the team environment and as that self confidence has grown it leads to greater expression of their unique personalities on the pitch.

It is hard to put into words the feeling of achievement and satisfaction that the coaching team feel having watched the squad play their first rugby fixtures after the last season and a half of disruption. They are a competitive yet welcoming squad who exhibit every core value of rugby on and off the field. They are a delight to coach and we look forward to their return after the summer break, when we hope to continue their development and journey with them.

We are indebted to the parents and spectators for the outstanding touchline support come rain or shine. The support over recent weeks has helped cement Cooke Fields as a popular destination with the opposition teams, all keen to return and invite us to theirs next season. The Club’s wider committee, grounds and kitchen/bar staff have likewise helped to ensure everyone has a positive experience on and off the pitch.

The U7s have benefited from a large coaching team that have all given freely of their time experience and expertise, working together to help the squad develop and I know the players and supporters value their time and efforts. A special mention to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award team who have been great ambassadors for the award and invaluable assistance with the squad. We are incredibly grateful for all the kind words and gratitude expressed by our spectators to the coaching team.

Finally, the biggest thank you and applause to the stars of the show, who shine brighter than today’s glorious sunshine...the players; Lichfield U7s 2020/21 a brilliant squad, great players, full of character and who we hope to see back for the next season after the summer break.

The playing season may be over, but we hope all the players and supporters will join us next weekend for our end of season awards and finale, to celebrate the squad’s achievements.