2024-25 has turned out to be a highly successful one for local schools’ rugby. Only a few weeks ago AKS defeated Stonyhurst College by 20-15 in the Lancashire Schools U’18s Final in a splendid game held at the Woodlands.
Lytham St Annes High School has now qualified for the U’16s Lancashire Plate Final against Birkdale High School to be held on Monday, 28th April, at Preston Grasshoppers’ Lightfoot Green ground (ko 14.30). They have battled through rounds against Laurus Ryecroft School (Trafford), Hutton Grammar, Liverpool College and Scarisbrick Hall School to reach the Final.
LSA vs Laurus Ryecroft School (Trafford) 50-0
LSA Vs Hutton Grammar 21-34 (dropped into the plate)
LSA Vs Liverpool College 21-15
LSA Vs Scarisbrick Hall 45-34
It’s been a positive year for Rugby at LSA with all years participating in the Lancashire Cup. Every team has developed so much in such a short space of time, and every student wants to improve in every game. Coached by Fylde 1st teamer Adam Lanigan, the School also has the benefit of a real rugby man, Ray Baker, as Head Teacher, and other top players, Fylde’s Mike Walton and former Fylde & Sedgley Park flanker and now Vale of Lune Head Coach Mark Goodman, on the teaching staff.
More students are attending after school training sessions as rugby has become more popular within the School, and hopefully more will join local clubs as the link with the Fylde Rugby Community Foundation continues to grow.
Rugby in state schools should be a top priority for the RFU if the recent declining participation rates in adult rugby is to be turned around and the hold that football has across the state sector is to be challenged. That’s why the innovative programme of coaching and rugby development being rolled out successfully across the Fylde Coast by the FRCF is so significant and important.
LSA’s U16s have been captained this year by Jacob Filipo, son of Fylde Chairman Matt and member of the Sale Sharks Academy, who has led the team brilliantly. They deserved to be in the Lancashire Plate final and hopefully can win one more time.
Good luck lads – bring back some more silverware to the Fylde Coast! Although not a very convenient time, any visiting support would be much appreciated.
