It has been a great season so far for the U16 (Year 11) age group. Over the summer, playing numbers swelled into the mid-thirties and we have continued to recruit new players throughout the season. We’re now pushing up towards a 40-strong squad - promising to deliver great potential into the Colts and Senior set-ups in the years ahead.

The squad is run on an inclusive rugby-for-all basis and has real strength in its diversity, with lasting friendships being made on and off the pitch and with players from all backgrounds. Over 10 local schools are represented in the squad, with around 80% of players from Ipswich and Suffolk state schools.

It has been a luxury - that very few clubs locally can afford - to run two teams at once over several weekends this season, entering both the Suffolk Cup and Plate competitions. Both teams have competed strongly, and we had an excellent showing at the Eastern Counties U16 festival hosted at IRFC earlier in the season.

Several of the squad are now part of the Northampton Saints DPP set up and two players have recently had international trials for Ireland and Jamaica. Thanks to the hard work of the age group coaches, supported by senior player masterclasses, the players have developed both their core skills and team play to deliver a powerful, attacking brand of rugby in the Ipswich mould. The improvements of both experienced and newcoming players has been great to see, helped by a welcoming positive attitude shown by all connected to the squad – players, coaches and a great parental group. We are looking forward to a strong end to the season, with several competitive fixtures remaining before the lads get their heads down into their GCSEs, ahead of then getting ready for a big pre-season leading into their first year of Colts rugby.

The future's bright - the future's black and gold!

- Henry Gaskin, U16 Head Coach

Celebrate the next generation at IRFC at NEXT GEN DAY on 1st March
This Saturday marks Next Gen Day, a celebration of the players coming through the ranks of the youth section at Ipswich RFC.

Book your place for the three-course pre-match lunch and enjoy three Men's home matches, where all eligible U18 Colts will take to the pitch alongside our seniors - marking their transition to senior rugby. We'll also have plenty of extra festivities on the day including a raffle, car wash and BBQ hosted by our U15s who are raising funds for their summer tour.

Find out more about Next Gen Day.