Rugby at Malvern

Malvern College Rugby coaching and pathways support player development at all levels.

The extensive playing fields at Malvern, with the backdrop of the Malvern Hills, provide a magnificent setting for the game of rugby.

Throughout the Autumn term we field eight rugby sides and compete in an impressive fixture list. Overseen by our Master in Charge of Rugby, pupils benefit from a dedicated coaching team, (many of whom are ex-professional players) and a number of external Level 3 coaches and referees.

Coaching

In the Junior years, boys are taught a full range of core skills with the emphasis placed on safety and development.

We run A and B teams on a weekly basis and all boys are given the chance to compete. We also run a non-contact version of the game which includes Touch Rugby fixtures. Boys are given an opportunity to experience Sevens Rugby in the Spring term.

In the Senior years, basic skills are supplemented with more complex concepts as the boys develop a greater understanding of the game. Boys are encouraged to practice skills specific to their position in their own time and positional clinics are delivered by skill-specific coaches including current professional players.

Senior boys represent the College in a number of prestigious Sevens tournaments culminating with the National Sevens Tournament at Rosslyn Park. In 2023 our Senior Sevens squad reached the quarter final of the Vase Competition. We also won the Silver Salver at the North of England and were tournament winners at the Collegiate Schools Sevens.

We hold strength and conditioning sessions in our free weights gym and boys are provided with personal development programmes which are monitored by rugby staff.

A rugby player in a white and blue uniform is running across a field while holding a rugby ball. The stadium stands are visible in the background.

Pathway Development

We currently have 17 boys across different age groups involved in the Player Development Groups including RFU Midlands West, Gloucester Rugby and the Independent School’s Lambs Rugby. In 2024, two boys had the unique opportunity in playing in the first ever Barbarians Under 18 team.

The England U20 Rugby team physiotherapist is our resident Physio and delivers weekly clinics.

All players, no matter their level, need to be supported so they are able to enjoy their sport, and our rugby programme focuses on age-related key performance indicators to develop technical skills and tactical understanding to enhance their competence.

Nick Tisdale, Master i/c Rugby

Touch Rugby

We want as many players to enjoy the game as possible but are aware that some pupils and parents have concerns surrounding the safety of the sport. We offer different types of games including Touch Rugby, an Adapted Contact Game and Rugby Sevens Touch which are great options for those who have never played rugby or would like to gain confidence in the sport.

Malvern College rugby players passing the ball in games
A rugby team huddles together on a grassy field with a clubhouse and spectators in the background. Other players in white uniforms are visible in the distance, and large mountains rise behind the scene, with a partially cloudy sky at sunset.
A rugby player in green is lifted by teammates as he catches the ball during a line-out, surrounded by players in blue and opponents in black and yellow jerseys, under the stadium lights in a thrilling rugby night match.
Two boys in green and white rugby uniforms are running on a grassy field. The boy in the foreground is holding a rugby ball and is about to catch it, while the boy in the background is sprinting towards him. Trees and a goalpost frame this energetic rugby scene.
A rugby ball lies on the sand of a beach with footprints around it. In the distance, a group of rugby players huddles near the water under a clear blue sky, their laughter and camaraderie echoing across the shore.

Notable Alumni

Malvern's rugby programme played a huge role in shaping the person and player I am today. It taught me discipline, resilience and the importance of hard work, values that extend far beyond the College and have helped me even to this day.

The coaches pushed me to improve not only my skills but also my mindset, helping me develop a strong work ethic both on and off the pitch. The environment the school created allowed me to challenge myself, learn from setbacks and celebrate progress. Looking back at my time at Malvern, the rugby programme provided the foundation for both my athletic and personal development, guiding me to the opportunities and achievements I have today.

Will Lane, OM, Worcester Warriors

Rugby Scholarships at Malvern College

At Malvern College, we are proud to nurture young rugby players with exceptional talent, drive and potential. Our Rugby Scholarships, available at 13+ and 16+ entry, recognise pupils who demonstrate outstanding ability, commitment and a true passion for the game.

Scholars benefit from expert coaching led by our professional rugby staff, year-round access to excellent training and conditioning facilities and opportunities to represent the College at the highest school and county levels.

To apply, candidates must be registered for entry to Malvern College and submit a Scholarship application by the published deadline. Assessment includes practical trials and an interview with our Coaching Team.

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