Congratulations go to Sam Pal-Byrne (U6) and Alex Gribbon (L6) who have been selected as part of the London Irish Gold Group U18 Academy. They will participate in the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Academy League in January 2021 if it is able to go ahead.

I have come up through the age groups in London Irish since U15 and have had multiple trials but I knew this one was going to be the hardest."

Alex Gribbon

“I have come up through the age groups in London Irish since U15 and have had multiple trials but this one was going to be the hardest, with 20-30 players fighting for around 10 places. I trained hard before the trial with multiple strength and conditioning sessions each week complementing my rugby sessions”, said Alex.

"The Sports department has played a crucial role in my development both as a rugby player and as a person, promoting St Benedict’s values such as hard work", said Sam. "I have often had extra strength and conditioning sessions to help me get into the physical shape needed to compete at this higher level. Understandably, I was very nervous as this had been one of my goals for many years now. However, once I had made my first pass/carry, I established the correct mindset to excel in this opportunity. By the second day I managed to grow in confidence which consequently resulted in my getting selected." 

The Sports department has played a crucial role in my development both as a rugby player and as a person, promoting St Benedict’s values such as hard work."

Sam Pal-Byrne

Mr Stringer, Head of Strength and Conditioning at St Benedict's, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for both of the boys. Their work ethic and energy in S&C and field sessions have been of the highest order at all times and they both fully deserve this opportunity and recognition.”

We wish them both all the best with their training. Fingers crossed for the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Academy League in January!