Sports - Wesley’s rugby ‘gold’

Wesley College, the century – old school with a cherished history behind them have produced some of the best professionals and sportsmen for the country.

The school was introduced to rugby in 1956. Now the school is making elaborate arrangements to celebrate their Golden Jubilee this year. Rugby was first brought in by late Mr. Dabrera, a physics master. The first captain of Wesley was Eddie Buell, who turned out to be an outstanding scrum half. He also played for the CR and FC and Air Force. Wesley rugby has produced some outstanding national players. Among them are Reggie Bartholomeusz, Iqbal Musafer etc. Today Wesley rugby is a force to be reckoned with in the schools circuit. Wesley has proved that they are no longer a pushover side.

Last weekend, Wesley College ran riot over S. Thomas’ College Mt. Lavinia recording the highest score against the ‘Thoras’ at 36-7, in wet weather, before an enthusiastic crowd. It was an awe-inspiring display. Wesley provided the fire and sparks. Pulling themselves out of the mud, ran the ball at every given turn to planet 6 tries pushing Thomian defence into disarray

The man behind the Wesley upsurge is former Science College player, Priyadharshana -- not a big name in rugby circles. He first coached the junior teams at grassroots level. He nursed and nurtured them to reach higher levels. Priyadharshana, has silenced his critics with his proven record. Initially he was understudy to former Isipatana stalwart Sanath Martis..

The principal of Wesley, M.A.P. Fernando paid a glowing tribute to coach Priyadharshana. “He is an energetic young coach. He has coached the team for the last four years. He has harnessed the side with a blend of youth and experience. Wesley has achieved success in rugby in recent years thanks to him,” and added “He has been on the ball. We beat Trinity for the first time in the history of Wesley rugby and we beat Royal too”.

‘We go in search of talent. Even we entice the parents to allow their children to indulge in this sport. The boys have done well in this ongoing season’.When you take into consideration that we beat St. Anthony’s Katugastota and drew with Kingswood 16-all in the traditional game. So far we have only lost to St. Peter’s, and we have two more games against Thurstan and Ananda to go”.

The Wesley College Principal M.A.P.Fernando went on to say to celebrate their ‘golden jubilee’ Wesley will launch the under 15 10-a-side schools rugby tournament on Sept. 23 and 24, at the CR and FC grounds.

Old boys who have been in the Wesley scrum living abroad will be here for this great happening.

Eight groups 3 in each will play on a league basis on day one (Sept 23). On day 2 --September 24, the teams play in the cup., plate and bowl, on a K.O. basis and that will consist of 21 matches. Thereafter a grand finale will be held, followed by a Banquet, at the Trans Asia Hotel where all the past captains will be felicitated. The guest speaker will be Bob Dwyer.