Barbarian Team from the North West headed to Istanbul to spread the rugby word.
Did you know a group of zebras is called a dazzle? Well last weekend's activities was certainly a dazzling performance, as a group of young people headed to the Istanbul Rugby Seven's Two Day Tournament.
Founder of Zebra Ragbi Adrian Stores from Stockport took up the challenge and created a "barbarians" team of North West origin. All players came from clubs in the Region including Broughton Parks Joe Donnelly, Jamie Higginbotham and Paddy O’Loughlin who were all part of last years Broughton Park Senior Colts side that was so successful after their merger with Manchester Rugby Club, who also had four representatives from that league winning side. Heaton Moor, Macclesfield and Manchester Metropolitan University were the other sides represented. Broughton Park were also represented in the coaching which was led by Graham Higginbotham and assisted by Andy Donnelly.
After day one, the Zebras finished third in its group, but qualified for the Quarter Finals on countback and rankings. Day two meant they faced the undefeated Winners of Group A from the previous Day. That Team, the legendary Ottomans Rugby, were the opposition, yet our North West lads rose to the challenge with a convincing victory to progress to the semi finals. They then faced the previous Year's Champions, the powerhouse that is Koc University. That battle was a step too far, and Zebra Ragbi were beaten by the eventual champions and left to face Firuzkoy in the third/fourth place play off. Zebras put in another dazzling performance beating a Club that fielded several international players.
A Trophy and Medals was the outcome awarded in Istanbuls Attaturk Olympic Stadium. Many new friends and supporters resulted from the behaviour, branding and enthusiastic performances by this 'cobbled together' set of individuals playing together for the first time and for most playing 7s rugby for the first time.
A fantastic initiative and example of British and Turkish collaboration. Giving these young people the chance to experience a new culture, and to work on teamwork, camaraderie and mental resilience. The three pillars of the resulting not for profit venture that will be legacy to the Tour, which will help teenagers improve their life opportunities using the sport of rugby to overcome barriers.
For more information contact Adrian Stores 07831 713003 or hello@ragbistores.com
