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This year is a very special one, being our 25th Anniversary and representatives from many of the teams who have played in past festivals – many of whom made rugby their career – are returning to join us in our celebrations. We extend a particularly warm welcome to all of our own former players – who are invited between 5pm and 7pm on the Saturday to an Old Birkfeldians’ reception in the Sixth Form Centre. An O.B.’s exhibition will be open throughout the festival in the Sixth Form Centre.
The success and strength of the Festival lies not just in the superb squads participating, but also in the many people who support and play a part in its organisation. I would like to thank all the sponsors and contributors for enabling this festival to occur. Thanks also go to our school medical officer, nursing staff, St John's Ambulance and physiotherapists in the physiotherapy unit.
We are also grateful to the Parents' Association, grounds staff, catering staff and Rugby Festival Committee chaired so effectively by Nigel Watson. Without all of these people as well as willing teams of staff and pupils, this National Festival would not be the immensely enjoyable and memorable celebration of schoolboy rugby year after year.
Our main aim with the Festival is not only to celebrate school boy rugby, but also to provide the boys with the opportunity of playing in a highly competitive and professional environment. This is made possible by the expertise and high calibre of referees supplied by the London Division of Rugby Referees.
The Festival reflects the hard work and commitment of the players and their coaches and I am pleased that you are able to join us to celebrate the very high quality of play, self-discipline and sportsmanship which will be displayed.
Sian Grant
Principal
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