RED Rockets look to end sevens season in style

RED, who are based in South Woodham, have picked up seven trophies in seven events already this term.

And Rockets’ director of rugby Jack Kershaw is keen to keep the good run of results going with another impressive showing at the FRN sevens.

“We’re going there looking to complete the season on a high but it’s not going to be easy,” said Kershaw.

“This a very competitive, 16 team tournament and some key changes have had to be made.

“But I do still think we look strong enough to compete and, touch wood, we can finish the season off with more success.”

Southend youngster George Griffiths has been called into the squad and, as a result, will be rubbing shoulders with World Cup sevens winner Rhodri McAtee who is also in the Rockets’ line-up.

Experienced sevens coach Gareth Kerr has also been added to the coaching set up for the tournament in the absence of Tony Woods.

And Kershaw is pleased with how his squad is shaping up.

“We have brought in real quality and are also offering local lad George Griffiths an opportunity to learn from some of the best sevens coaches and players in England on Saturday,” said Kershaw.

“Next year we are looking to continue the development of our squad by approaching local clubs about using their players in tournaments we are in around the county which will continue to offer local players excellent coaching and pathway opportunities.”

Southend’s teenage winger Norbetas Radzevicus will also be lining up for one of RED’s sister sides at the same event.

And Southend’s director of rugby Chris Green is pleased to see the club’s talented youngsters gaining more experience.

‘It is great to see RED getting young Southend players involved such as George Griffiths and Bert,” said Green.

“Playing sevens through the summer will help the lads involved come back fit and help their development as they will be playing with national league players week in week out.”

The RED Rockets are sponsored by Little Scrummers and tacklingrugby.com.