The rugby they play at the U8 level as first formers is quite a bit different to the game that they will play at 1st, 2nd and 3rd XV level as fifth and sixth formers; only seven a side, no tackling, no rucking and mauling, no scrum. But it is still rugby and a school match is always a school match.
And the tension mounts... That's our chaps in the foreground getting their boots on ready for the big occasion. Those rather larger boys in the background having a team huddle are not their opposition but a St. John's, Beaumont Under 10s team.
An exercise to get mind, legs and hands warmed up. Run towards your partner and pop the ball up for him - but watch out for the other two using the same square but on the other diagonal. Then you join the back of the line and be ready to go again.
Because at this age level the boys play across half the pitch, the normal markings on the field can be confusing and, of course, there are no rugby posts to show where to score a try. So here Mr Taylor is showing both teams exactly where the try lines are at each end.
The U8Bs in action. At this level it's Touch Rugby - an all running, all passing game. These fellows have clearly got a grip on the basics. They're well spread out across the field and running in support behind the ball carrier ready to run onto the pass.
Not the warmest of days; but a good turnout of parents and grandparents saw two teams of Under 8s make a very promising start to their schoolboy rugby days.
© St. John's - DTP, 1998 & 2005 - N. Pauli