Two Derby Rugby senior Colts players have earned the honour of representing the NLD U18s regional side, taking their talents onto the next stage of the rugby pathway.

A huge congratulations to Jowad Albadry and Ben Saunders, who were selected to represent the Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Derbyshire (NLD) regional side in their fixture against Cheshire.

It’s a fantastic achievement for both players and a real testament to their commitment, hard work and ability,  not just as rugby players, but as people and all-round good dudes!

For those less familiar with the Colts age group, senior Colts rugby brings together players aged 16–18. It's an important stage in the game, as younger players continue developing while older players begin making the transition towards senior men's rugby.

And for Jowad and Ben, being selected for the NLD U18s is another exciting step on that journey.

Joward Albadry

Earning the shirt

Getting into the regional squad isn't simply a case of turning up and pulling on a different shirt.

Players are nominated by their clubs to attend trials, with successful candidates progressing into an NLD training squad. From there, a series of additional training sessions and assessments help coaches select the final squad.

That means extra commitment alongside their usual club rugby, with weekly Monday evening sessions at Newark RFC, running from 6.30pm to 8.15pm.

As Jowad explains, representing the region is about being part of something bigger:

“For me, it is a real privilege to have the opportunity to represent not only my club but also my local region at such a high level. It is special to be part of something bigger than just your club.”

Ben shares that enthusiasm, describing it as a brilliant opportunity to play alongside other players of a high standard, improve the quality of his game and gain valuable experience. It can also open the door to further opportunities, including potential selection for the Midlands U18s.

Ben Saunders

A step up in standards

Regional rugby brings a different level of intensity, competition and expectation.

For Jowad, the difference isn't necessarily about who is the biggest, fastest or strongest. It's about skill, technique, determination and the mental side of the game.

“Playing against equally capable opposition means every decision, every carry and every moment of contact is a test.”

Ben has noticed the same increase in quality, highlighting how much players can benefit from playing alongside teammates who match their ability and ambition.

“It's exactly the kind of environment that helps young players grow.”

Two players, one club, shared ambition. 

Having two players from the same Derby Colts squad selected is something worth celebrating in its own right.

For Jowad, sharing the experience makes stepping into a new regional environment even more rewarding.

“Having someone from your own club to share the experience with makes it even more rewarding, rather than having to go into a completely new environment on your own.”

Ben also sees the benefits of having a familiar face alongside him. Being able to share opinions, discuss more complex game situations and look after each other during training and matches makes the experience even more valuable.

It's also a reflection of the quality and environment being developed within the Derby Colts squad.

“It’s about the people behind the players, too”

Behind every young player making progress is a network of people helping them get there.

For Jowad, inspiration comes from England international prop Ellis Genge. He admires not only his playing ability but also his journey, particularly the fact that you don't have to come from a traditional rugby school or background to compete at the highest level.

For Ben, his biggest influence has been closer to home.

He credits his dad for encouraging him to attend training and put in extra work outside of rugby, school and club commitments. He also recognises the Colts coaches, who give up their own free time to help players develop.

As Ben puts it, players aren't just playing for their teammates, but for the coaches who invest so much in them, too.

It's a lovely reminder that rugby is about far more than what happens on the pitch.

What's next?

Both players have ambitions to keep progressing.

Jowad hopes to build a long and successful rugby career, continuing to develop and playing at the highest level he can.

Ben is looking towards university, with plans to combine studying with rugby and hopefully keep pushing into higher levels of the game. Depending on where he studies, he'd love to continue playing for Derby or at an even higher level.

Their advice to other young players hoping to follow a similar pathway is refreshingly straightforward.

Jowad's message is to stay committed, keep turning up, work on your weaknesses and remember that preparation matters just as much as what happens at training. Looking after yourself through fitness, sleep and recovery all plays a part.

Ben's advice? Be coachable. Listen to feedback, take it on board and make a genuine effort to put it into your game.

Simple advice, perhaps, but incredibly valuable.

A proud moment for Derby Rugby

Whether it's the extra Monday night sessions, the hours spent practising, the support from family or the dedication of coaches giving up their time, achievements like this don't happen by accident.

Jowad and Ben have earned their opportunity, and representing the NLD against Cheshire is a fantastic milestone in their rugby journeys.

We're incredibly proud to see two of our own stepping up, representing their region and showing what Derby Rugby Colts are all about.

Well done, Jowad and Ben. You've done yourselves, your teammates, your coaches and Derby Rugby proud. And this could be just the beginning! 

The morning after the match…

Of course, regional rugby isn't all glory, perfect passes and heroic tries!

The post-match reviews included some rather practical recovery suggestions, a nice facial ice pack was needed for Ben to deal with a bit of a bosh in the visage!

The boys also reflected honestly on the game. Although the result didn't go their way, they felt it was a really good experience and a valuable training fixture.

The NLD squad was also short on numbers, meaning players had to be called up from other clubs to help make up the team. That made the opportunity to come together, play alongside new teammates and test themselves against Cheshire all the more worthwhile.

Because that's what rugby is about too: adapting, supporting each other, getting stuck in and learning something along the way.

And perhaps having a long soak in the bath afterwards!

Ben Saunders and Jowad Albadry

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