On Saturday, 31st August 2024, the school hosted its highly anticipated Pre-Season Training Day. The event, held from 10 am to noon, brought together over 190 pupils and their parents for a morning of intensive training, team-building, and community spirit. 

Hockey Session 

The hockey training session, conducted at the Upper Sports Field Astro, saw over 60 girls from U12 to Senior levels participate. Led by strength and conditioning coaches, alongside Welsh Hockey International Izzy Botham, the session focused on enhancing core skills, fitness, and tactical understanding. The warm and sunny weather provided the perfect backdrop for the training, which was met with enthusiasm by both returning and new pupils.  

Rugby Session 

Meanwhile, at The Pavilion, rugby training for boys in U12 to Senior levels took place, attracting an impressive turnout of 130 players. The session was organised into six different stations, allowing each year group to rotate and experience coaching from top professionals. The coaches included former and current players from esteemed rugby clubs such as Cardiff, WRU, Dragons, and Gloucester. The training covered essential aspects of the game, including contact area techniques, tackle strategy, decision-making, core skills, fitness, and game principles. 

Elite Coaches Lead the Way 

Guest coaches for the day included renowned names such as Richie Pugh (Wales RFU U18s Head Coach), Richard Whiffin (Wales RFU U20s Head Coach), Chris Cjekai (Cardiff Rugby), Thomas Rhys Thomas (Gloucester Rugby), Sam Cross (GB 7s), Lewis Roberts (Dragons), Jim Botham (Cardiff & Wales International), James Chapron (Dragons RFC) and Izzy Webb (Welsh International Hockey player).

Post Training Hog Roast and Strategy  

The sessions culminated in a well-attended hog roast at the Pavilion, where Richie Rees and Lucy Pugh delivered a presentation outlining the department’s road map and the school’s upcoming developments, including a visual preview of the forthcoming Strength & Conditioning Centre, due for completion in April 2025. The presentation was followed by a lively Q&A session, giving parents and pupils the chance to engage with the coaches and staff. 

Pre-Season Success Sets the Tone 

Overall, the Pre-Season Training Day was a resounding success, setting a positive tone for the upcoming sports season and showcasing the school’s commitment to fostering sporting excellence and community involvement.