Highland take second at prestigious event
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Highland rugby team
JUNIOR players from Highland finished as runners-up in the Bowl final after being invited to participate in the prestigious London Irish Rugby Tournament.
Highland were one of only 20 clubs from throughout the UK to receive an invitation to the competition, which took place at Sunbury, the training round of London Irish.
A tournament aimed at teams in the under-12 age group, Highland reached the final of the Bowl where they were narrowly beaten by one try when losing to Ulster Bohemians.
Despite not taking home any silverware, Highland had the consolation of being the only team from Scotland taking part in what is a major tournament on the junior calendar.
"The London Irish tournament offers an incredible opportunity for our young players," said Alan Falconer, development officer at Highland.
"It is a reputable tournament and attracts a large number of high profile teams from across Britain, including feeder teams for some of the professional clubs.
"What’s more, Highland Rugby Club was the only team from Scotland invited to attend, which makes us feel very privileged."
Other teams who were invited to play at the London Irish Tournament included Bath, Connaught and Gloucester.
The invitation for Highland to join the tournament was extended several years ago and has been actively supported since with club officials using it to help young players make the move up from mini to junior rugby.
"This tournament really aids the development of the players, contributing to both their rugby development and personal development," said Falconer.
"It has been a tremendous opportunity for the boys not only to play opposition of the highest quality teams, but also to experience watching a top class rugby game the day before the tournament, as well as discovering London itself."
To finance the travel, accommodation and kit, funds were raised through sponsorship from local businesses and individuals
throughout Inverness and the surrounding areas.
"Thanks must go to all those who have donated towards this experience without whom this trip would not have been possible," said Falconer.
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Search for new coach begins
HIGHLAND will begin their search for a new head coach as Hugh Mackintosh prepares for his last game in charge tomorrow.
Mackintosh brings to an end a reign that has lasted for four seasons when the Greens make the trip to Invergordon for the annual Jack Henderson Trophy match with Ross Sutherland.
Highland completed their National Division Two campaign last weekend with a 39-21 defeat at Glasgow Accies — a result that may yet see Accies leapfrog them into fourth place should they win their final fixture of the season tomorrow at Allan Glen’s.
For the Greens, there is just the game against Ross Sutherland to come before they can call time on what has been another busy season.
Highland should be too strong for the home side, who endured a difficult season in Caledonia Division One, winning only two out of their 17 fixtures so far.
