Twickenham joy for youngsters

7:52am Wednesday 7th May 2008

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HONYWOOD Community Science School are celebrating after being crowned National Emerging Schools' Rugby champions at Twickenham.

The school's Year Seven squad of 16 boys beat Surrey-based Heathside School by two tries to lift the trophy.

It was a daunting but incredible experience but the passion and determination displayed by Honywood was stunning.

They dominated the game, ensuring they ran through the whole tournament without conceding a try.

It was an incredible achievement for a young team, which has only been together since September, 2007.

Honywood had earlier seen off Central Technology and Sports College, Durham Johnston and William Ramsey schools in the final stage at Staines Rugby Club.

Their reward was to play Heathside during the half-time break of the Army v Navy annual fixture, which was played out in front of 50,000 spectators at the home of English rugby.

Honywood headteacher Simon Mason said: "Everyone at Honywood is so proud of our boys.

"Their commitment throughout the year has been superb, showing just what can be achieved by trying your best with every opportunity placed in front of you. They are a credit to their families.

"The boys have been outstanding throughout the whole year," added Honywood PE teacher and team coach, Jack Wiggins.

"They knew this was a once in a lifetime opportunity and they took the awesome challenge in their stride.

"It is said that sport can bring out all the great qualities in a person and our boys showed this in abundance."

Colchester's Philip Morant School took part in the final pool stages at Staines but were unable to book their place at Twickenham.