Under 13’s World Cup 

The Shelford U 13's were invited to participate in the 7th Top12 (World Cup) festival of rugby at Rodez, France this October.  17 boys & 5 coaches went along with 17 parents("fan-club"), it turned out to be a memorable occasion, which included a parade through the town centre and a presentation of each team to the town dignitaries.

The tournament was preceded by the playing of the national anthem for each participating nation.  In total 40 clubs from 12 different nations took part in the tournament, the boys played against a number of different countries (Belgium; France; Romania; Spain and South Africa), putting in a creditable performance. They played under different game rules such as non contested scrums and no low tackling (below knee-level); in total the boys played 11 matches - winning 3, drawing 6 and losing only 2. Shelford finished joint 7th with Clermont Ferrand with whom they drew 5-5.  The boys were the highest ever placed British side in the tournament’s history.  Everyone who went was impressed by the boys determination to do themselves and the club proud.  Hopefully, this is the start of a long participation of Shelford U13’s in this tournament.