The Middle School Exiles showed up 17 strong at their home field expecting to play a North Bay U15 side made up of 8th & 9th graders. Instead, North Bay's side was a freshmen team with a couple sophomores and one or two 8th graders. The size difference was apparent from a distance. Head coach Jorge Molinari consulted with North Bay's coach and made the wise decision to mix up the teams and play a game with uncontested scrums so that the sides were evenly matched in terms of both size and age.

This led to a lively game that gave players time to demonstrate the skills they have learned in practice and to work with teammates and players they had just met. Lots of passing, tackling and scoring ensued. Referee Bill McDonald, father of varsity player Seamus McDonald provided instruction with his calls as the primary objective is the development of young rugby players. All seemed to enjoy the competition.

Obviously a miscommunication occurred in scheduling a match that included players who were above the U15 age limit. We try to avoid these situations but when they do occur will endeavor to "level the playing field." Next week, the Middle School team is scheduled to participate in the Middle School bracket of the Maryland Youth Rugby Festival at Mount Saint Mary's University in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Dan Soso, our club President also happens to be the tournament director of this event.Two games are scheduled for Saturday and one for Sunday. We will send out match announcements once we receive the final schedule.

Hope everyone can make practice on Wednesday - it will be at Stratton Park