Matthew Flinders Anglican College began their first XV rugby union tour of regional New South Wales earlier this week

Matthew Flinders Anglican College have opened their rugby union tour of regional New South Wales against some tough opponents.

The first XV Matthew Flinders Anglican College Rugby Union team against Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School while on tour of regional NSW. Picture Supplied.

After a competitive Sunshine Coast Secondary Schools rugby union campaign, a Coast school is currently touring regional New South Wales as part of their end of season celebrations.

With Covid-19 shutting the door on the usual overseas tour, the staff and players of Matthew Flinders Anglican College first XV decided to travel south instead.

The team of 23 left on June 18 and will return on June 27 after undertaking matches against Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School, Calrossy Anglican School, The Armidale School and a Far North Coast U18s selected team.

Matthew Flinders head of sport, Adam Ridgewell, said the players have enjoyed the team tour immensely.

“We’re still quite banged up from our schools comp as we currently only have 15 players available but it’s been really enjoyable so far,” he said.

“All of the boys are having a great time and each of our games so far have been played hard and fair.”

The first XV Matthew Flinders Anglican College Rugby Union team against Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School while on tour of regional NSW. Picture Supplied.

Team captain, Mitch Lehman, said it’s been an eye opening tour.

“It’s been really enjoyable and the biggest thing we’ve all learnt is just how far rugby union and sport in general can take you,” he said.

“We’re coming down from the Coast where there is a good skill level and a good level of competition so it’s nice to be given the opportunity to get a feel for the rugby union culture down south.”

Lehman said quality of opposition had been enjoyable.

“The teams we’ve faced definitely have some aggression in them which is good,” he said.

“Obviously being country boys there’s some good contact and they’re really strong around the rucks.”

The first XV Matthew Flinders Anglican College Rugby Union team on tour at the Golden Guitar in Tamworth, New South Wales. Picture Supplied

The experience off the field is what Lehman and the rest of the group has enjoyed the most.

“The opportunity of playing some footy but also getting to look around New South Wales has been really enjoyable,” Lehman said.

“It’s not all about the footy it’s also about travelling and being able to share the whole experience with our mates.”

Mr Ridgewell said it’s a well deserved break for the players.

“All of the boys are having a great time and it’s a good way to celebrate our season, make new friends, visit the sights and play some solid rugby along the way,” he said.