Tavistock College rugby players selected to represent their county

FIVE Tavistock College girls have been selected to represent Devon in county rugby teams.

Under 15s Amy Neave and Flo Rodgers and Under 18s Rachael Watson, Alice Upcott and Rosie Tidball were chosen after passing gruelling trials for the county sides.

Rachael said: “It’s my first time being picked so it feels really good and I’m proud of myself.

“I got into rugby through friends and really enjoy it.”

Alice, Rosie and Amy have all been called up before and were happy to be chosen for another season.

“I was an Under 15 last year and I’m now an Under 18,” said Alice. “I’m really pleased and proud to be selected.”

The girls also play for Tavistock Rugby Club and attended the tough trials in North Tawton to secure their places in the Devon county sides.

Rosie said she hoped to continue playing the sport after she left the college.

“It feels really special to be picked,” she continued. “We’re privileged to represent our county.”

Tavistock College has a proud rugby heritage and, in the student entrance, displays memorials to players who have passed away alongside former-student Graham Dawe’s first England shirt and team photographs dating back to 1974.

Principal Helen Salmon said: “To have one student selected for a county rugby team is an outstanding achievement, but to have five girls chosen is exceptional.

“I have been extremely impressed by the level of sporting ability at Tavistock College and with the attitude, dedication and professionalism shown by students towards their rugby.”