Broad Haven School’s rugby team had a day to remember recently thanks to a prize winning raffle ticket.
The budding rugby stars were given a kicking masterclass by Welsh rugby legend Paul Thorburn after the prize was donated to the school.
The winning ticket was won by the school’s chair of Governors, Phil Rees in a recent draw.
Mr Thorburn, a former Welsh rugby captain most famously known as the record holder for kicking the longest penalty kick in international rugby, addressed the school assembly before the coaching session as part for the school’s ‘food and fitness enrichment week.’
His appearance capped a week of special activities that included golf, gymnastics, dance and circus act coaches attending to give taster sessions together with chefs from local hostelries providing cooking demonstration and healthy eating advice.
“He was a perfect gentleman and totally engaging,” said headteacher Gareth Lewis who counts Thorburn as one of his sporting heroes.
“Our pupils are too young to remember him in action but once they saw the film of his monstrous 70 yard kick against Scotland back in 1985, they were awestruck.
“Not only did he talk about his rugby career, he also spoke about what it takes to become an international rugby star and the sacrifices you have to make, the dedication that is required and the eating habits you have to adopt.
“It was an inspirational visit during an inspirational week of work.”
Following the assembly Mr Thorburn gave the kicking clinic with the players all eager to impress one of the game’s greatest exponents of the art.
“All of the pupils benefitted from his enthusiasm and expertise and I’m sure they will have improved their kicking skills as a result.” added Mr Lewis.
“Who knows, this school has already produced one British Lion in Peter Morgan, maybe the visit by Paul Thorburn will have inspired one more.”
Caption
Picture 1. From left to right: Welsh rugby great Paul Thorburn, Broad Haven headmaster Gareth Lewis and chair of the school’s Governors Phil Rees together with pupils of the school.
Picture 2. Eye on the ball. Paul Thorburn offers expert advice as Harry Anson practices his kicking technique.
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