He may have missed out on walking out at Twickenham but Ruislip Rugby Club Under-12 starlet Finn Odell loved every minute of the Land Rover Premiership Rugby Cup experience.
Launched during the 2008-09 season, the cup is the first national grassroots tournament officiated by Premiership Rugby and run with all 12 clubs.
On Sunday, Harlequins hosted their version of the event, as local under-12s mini rugby teams met at Farnham Rugby club to battle it out for a place at Twickenham.
More than 7,000 children will participate in search of a spot in the Parade of Champions at half-time of the Aviva Premiership Grand Final.
While Odell did not lift the Under-12s trophy – his side unable to reach the final despite impressing in the competition – the 11-year-old remained proud.
“I love playing with my team and also all the running, using your strength,” said the Bishop Ramsey School student. “My friend encouraged me to play rugby, I was a footballer before. I want to be a professional rugby player now and it would have been amazing to go to Twickenham. I am a Saracens fan and love Owen Farrell as he plays my position and he is a good kicker.
“The best thing about this tournament has been the potential to win a trophy and if you play well, people might recognise it – it’s much better than a normal match.”
Casting an eye over proceedings were Quins first-teamers George Robson and Netani Talei and second-row Robson believes attending the tournament re-enforced his love of the game.
He said: “The event has been fantastic, it’s great to have the chance to come down and see some grassroots rugby. It is always good to remind yourself why you play the game and why you started.
“These kids are all working really hard for each other and then at the end of the game, you shake hands, everyone is friends and you move on. What has impressed me is the decision-making and the passing of the ball, moving it around, as well as the contact skills.
“I have been down here a couple of times for the tag tournaments and this is a completely different level, the guys are only young but they are going hell-for-leather, so it’s fantastic to see.
“To be involved in any competitive competition when you’re younger acts as a real source of motivation to play and as you can see, the guys are taking it seriously.
“It’s great to see the kids enjoying themselves – that’s the most important thing, playing with their mates. That is why everyone starts playing the game so it’s great to see it is still going on now.”
Land Rover supports grassroots rugby and provides the opportunity for over 7,000 youngsters to take part in the Land Rover Premiership Rugby Cup each season. Keep up to date with the latest Land Rover rugby activity by following @LandRoverRugby on Twitter.
