Berkhamsted rugby: a successful season with the Saracens

Berkhamsted rugby has shone this season, with many of our pupils making a remarkable impact across the Saracens Academy Pathway. Six of our talented players earned places in the Saracens U18 squad, demonstrating outstanding commitment, work ethic and skill. This weekend also brought an additional moment of pride, as we celebrated Year 13 student Patrick’s official graduation into the senior Saracens Academy. To mark these achievements, we are reflecting on the moments that brought our Saracens partnership to life this year.

Our long-standing relationship with the Saracens premiership team provides pupils with an aspirational path into professional rugby and access to world-class coaching. This season, former international player Sean Maitland joined Berkhamsted as a visiting coach, bringing valuable insight and experience. Niall Johal, Saracens Foundation Stage Manager, has also worked closely with our U16 group, and will return next year alongside ex-Scotland international and Saracens U18 Academy Head Coach, Duncan Taylor.

Many Berkhamsted pupils continue to progress through the Saracens player pathway, demonstrating both character and talent. In the Lent term alone, 18 Berkhamsted pupils represented the Saracens across various age groups. Among them were students Charlie H, Austin B, Ollie K, Rory H, Freddie S and Patrick L, who all featured for the Saracens’ U18 team, and Patrick L, who graduated on trial into the Senior Saracens Academy.

Reflecting on his time in the Academy, Charlie shared, “I think the main benefit is the exposure you get. You’re playing and training with the best players in the country, and fighting for your position just pushes you way more than you would probably get at School.”

“The coaching was also just excellent- especially for me as a scrum half, I had an old ex-player Kev Barrett who played for the Saracens and he did a lot of work with me.”

He added, “I always liked the culture at the Saracens. You’ve got to work hard, and not just have talent on the pitch- it’s about doing the things that people don’t see, and I took pride in that.”

One of the most anticipated fixtures of the year is the 1st XV’s annual fixture at the StoneX stadium. Joined by the girls’ 1st XI lacrosse team, the squad enjoys an exciting match under the floodlights, energised by the roar of a Berko crowd.

“It’s pretty unreal,” reflected Rugby Captain Rory H on the event. “Everyone supporting genuinely makes all the difference.”

This event also brings the wider Berkhamsted community together. Whether cheering in the crowds, capturing photos or performing from the stadium awnings, every pupil plays a part in the evening. As Deputy Head Co-Curricular Adam Cross shared, “Whatever your role, everyone’s a part of team Berko. We believe that the character skills that you’re getting from whatever part of this event you’re involved in, are going to serve you really well wherever life takes you.” From the courage and ambition shown on pitch to the teamwork and spirit in the stands, the StoneX event epitomises how character remains at the heart of our sporting culture.

Many Berkhamsted alumni have gone on to play for the Saracens team, continuing our rich tradition of top-level sport. Old Berkhamstedians Will Fraser, James Isaacs, Tobias Elliott and Toby Knight have all played for the Saracens, with James and Toby having also played for England. James Rodwell, another alumnus, has even won a silver medal with the GB team for his 7s rugby.

Our Saracens partnership continues to benefit pupils of all abilities and aspirations. For some, Aiming High with Integrity leads to academy pathways and international ambitions. For others it means discovering a joy in movement, developing confidence and embracing high-level coaching. At Berkhamsted, we believe that a successful provision is one that helps every pupil find a lifelong love of exercise, while developing the character skills that will support them far beyond School.