Holy Cross rugby team finishes fourth in the country at AOC National Championships

Congratulations to our boys’ rugby team who finished with a fourth-place nationwide ranking at the North West at the AOC Sport National Championships.  

Over two intense days of competition at the University of Nottingham, the team showed enormous determination, resilience, and skill, taking on the very best teams from colleges across the country. 

Battling through a demanding schedule of matches over the weekend (17-19 April), the boys demonstrated exactly what hard work and commitment can achieve on a national stage – winning three of their five matches. 

Their efforts were rewarded with an incredible fourth place ranking in the country, a fantastic achievement in itself. 

What makes this result even more impressive is that the three teams finishing above them – Bishop Burton, Loughborough and Exeter – are all colleges connected to professional rugby academies, complete with full‑time training programmes.  

Competing, and excelling, against such opposition highlights just how exceptional this group of players really is. 

This achievement is a huge credit to the players, coaches, and everyone who has supported the team throughout the season.  

Representing the North West with pride, passion, and sportsmanship, the boys should be extremely proud of their achievement. 

The Team 

• Alfie Campbell 
• Charlie Smith 
• Dumi Chuma 
• Elliot Popplier 
• Hary Ghattaura (Vice Captain) 
• Joe Ryder 
• Jonty Whitehead 
• Louie Bland 
• Luke Wood 
• Nathan Crilly 
• Noah Lawton 
• Owen Schuster 
• Pat Connolly (Captain) 
• Zack Taylor