THE ALLEYNIAN 708 | OUT OF THE ORDINARY
THE ALLEYNIAN 708 | OUT OF THE ORDINARY
TRIPS InDublin’s FairCity
THE GAME WAS PLAYED IN GREAT SPIRIT BY BOTH TEAMS AND WAS ENJOYED BY ALL, AS WAS THE POST-MATCH TEA
TOM SPEED (YEAR 10) HAS FOND MEMORIES OF THE 2019 RUGBY TOUR TO DUBLIN
O fficially, our trip started at Gatwick early on a Thursday morning, but for us it really began when, having checked in at King’s Hospital School, we headed straight out on to the pitch, and launched into our first training session of the new season; it certainly blew the summer cobwebs away. We had an early breakfast on day two and were ready on the pitch for a 9:00 am training session. This took us through to lunch, after which we returned to the field for an afternoon session Once again we were put through some vigorous training, working specifically on throw-ins and lifting. Having showered (which was essential after the two training sessions!) we departed for Dublin where we took part in the Viking Splash tour, viewing some iconic points throughout the city. This was not only interesting but also quite fun – well, the teachers definitely enjoyed it! After the tour we were split into groups to explore Dublin further, and to get something to eat. On day three we had another tough but enjoyable morning training session before leaving KHS and visiting Croke Park. We were shown around the stadium and learned about the sports played at the ground and the different teams, as well as the histories of all the competitions. We were also able to try some of the other sports played at the
stadium, which was fun, but I think we will all be sticking to rugby! Upon leaving Croke Park we once again travelled into Dublin, where we were once more split into groups for dinner, before returning to KHS ahead of Sunday’s game. We were up early on day four for a quick breakfast and then headed out for the team run-through in preparation for the game. Despite going 7–0 down against King’s Hospital, the team quickly responded with some excellent passing, running and support play, and were soon in control of the match, which eventually resulted in a solid win of 50–12. The game was played in great spirit by both teams and was enjoyed by all, as was the post-match tea provided by KHS. Our last day saw a final training session before we all headed off to the Guinness Storehouse for a tour and to learn how Guinness is made; unfortunately we weren’t able to try any! After the tour we grabbed some lunch, did our last minute shopping, then boarded the coach and headed off for the airport. After a short flight we landed at Gatwick, and some very tired DC boys headed home. A big thank you goes to KHS for their hospitality and to Mr Greenaway, Mr Brown, Mr Wood and Dr Wisson for all their hard work on making this a great tour.
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