Over the past two weeks, Bedford School has been proudly represented in Northampton Saints Academy fixtures, with five boys, Raff, Oliver, Kai, George and Will, selected to compete at U17 and U18 level. Their hard work and talent were on full display as they stepped confidently into elite rugby environments, many playing on Premiership grounds and against some of the strongest academy teams in the country.
Battling the Elements
Despite heavy snow and freezing conditions, Raff (U18) and Oliver (U17) travelled to Newcastle to take part in the Saints Academy U17/U18 league fixtures. It was a mixed afternoon in terms of results, but a hugely positive one for Bedford School representation.
The U18s worked hard in a competitive encounter, eventually falling 38–24. The U17s, powered by a strong forward platform and a dominant scrum, claimed an impressive 26–31 victory.
Both boys played with outstanding determination and embraced the opportunity to perform in front of a lively crowd at a Premiership venue, an experience that will stay with them for years. Oliver’s continued development has also earned him a significant next step – an invitation to train with the U18 squad. This is an excellent achievement and testament to his consistent hard work on the field and in training.
More Bedford Boys Selected for Saints Academy
Bedford’s presence in the Academy didn’t stop there with Kai (U18), George (U17) and Will (U17) all pulling on the Saints jerseys for U17/U18 friendly matches against Saracens.
While both games presented tough opposition, resulting in a 24–47 loss for the U18s and a 19 – 41 defeat for the U17s, each Bedford player showed exceptional attitude.
All five boys have shown a willingness to challenge themselves against elite opposition, and their involvement highlights the opportunities our programme provides for players to progress and develop at the highest levels of academy rugby. The boys embraced the intensity, rose to the physical challenge and gained valuable experience that will undoubtedly elevate their performances back on school turf.
