Regular Teamlink tourers Derby RFC took their Colts side away to Wales in October for their annual rugby tour. Accompanied by Teamlink Reps Sarah and Mat, the group of 35 set off on their 3 day trip to Swansea trip.

The coach journey was a chorus of the usual tunes to include a rendition of ‘Like a Virgin’ for the team’s 'newcomers' who travelled to Wales sporting V signs on their foreheads! On arrival at Swansea’s Ramada Jarvis on Friday night some of the older boys took advantage of the Hotel’s bar followed by Swansea’s vibrant nightlife.

The first of Derby’s two spectacular fixtures in the Welsh Valleys could only be described as a complete and utter mud bath! Treharris RFC were a well matched opposition and Derby eventually scored a last minute try to win the match. Although all players were unrecognisable from mud by the end of the game and there were a good few injuries, the post match hospitality was full of great banter (and beer!).

The afternoon continued in Cardiff at the Blues vs Ospreys Magners League match where all the boys thoroughly enjoyed the game’s brilliant atmosphere. With everyone in good spirits the evening continued back in Swansea where the celebrations of the earlier win went long into the night...

The next day’s match saw the Colts take on Trebanus RFC – a team that Derby had previously hosted at their home ground. Trebanos were very welcoming for their return fixture and Darwyn Hopkins and his players had already socially visited Derby at the hotel on the Friday night. The game only lasted 5 minutes before Derby player Callan Watson went down with an injury which resulted in an air ambulance arriving on the pitch! Fortunately there was no serious injury and once play resumed it was another well matched fixture.

Sunday had arrived quickly and all that was left was the (quiet) journey home to the Midlands. It had been a long weekend with everybody ready for a good night’s sleep – especially ‘Mo’ – the Teamlink Teddy Bear Mascot – who had survived numerous ‘abductions’ throughout the weekend!

 Submited: 29th January 2010