A team of Public Services students from South Devon College have achieved an extraordinary feat by reaching the finals of the national Touch to Twickenham competition, culminating in a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the iconic Twickenham Stadium.
What is even more impressive is that the team was comprised of mostly non-rugby players – the only non-sports team to take part in the final event!
Coached by former student and now staff member Scott Rowe, the initiative, codenamed Operation Egg, saw the team step foot on the hallowed Twickenham turf, home of English rugby, as the culmination of a competitive tournament journey.
Starting in a regional tournament in Exeter, their exceptional performance earned them an invitation to Sixways Stadium in Worcester, where they advanced to the prestigious final stage at Twickenham.
Embodying the core values of rugby – teamwork, sportsmanship, respect, and resilience – the group played as a cohesive and spirited team.
Their participation stood out as a shining example of what can be achieved through perseverance, adaptability, and collective effort.
“This experience has been nothing short of phenomenal,” said coach Scott Rowe. “To see a group of students, many of whom had never played rugby before, step up and showcase the values of the sport on such a grand stage is incredibly inspiring. They have proven that rugby is for everyone.”
Touch to Twickenham is a national mixed gender non-contact event with the aim of promoting and celebrating the game of rugby, run by England Rugby alongside School Games.
The final event saw the launch of a new rugby game called T1. ‘A game for everyone, played by anyone’, it is the world’s first non-contact sport with an emphasis on fun, fitness and inclusion that fully reflects the unique characteristics of Rugby Union and will be introduced to schools and clubs in England, replacing The Touch Union initiative.
Glyn Potter, Programme Coordinator of Uniformed Public Services at South Devon College, commented: “The team’s journey through Operation Egg has not only highlighted their growth as individuals but has also showcased the strong connection between sport and public service values.
“Their presence at Twickenham is a proud moment for South Devon College, demonstrating the potential of young people to rise to challenges and represent their generation with pride.”
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