Burton U16 entered our final year of junior rugby determined to defend the Staffordshire County trophy and have as much fun as possible in the process.

As it turned out, we were successful in both. Our record across the season was P25, W19, L6, and we extended our unbeaten run versus Staffordshire teams to 2 years, culminating in us winning the U16S trophy at Battlestead Croft in April.

We are extremely proud of the six players who progressed to the advanced stages of the Leicester Tigers and Gloucester academies.

In October, 56 parents and players headed off on tour to Parma, Italy. We played two matches against exceptionally strong opposition, including a match against Viadana in their 6000-capacity stadium, followed by a memorable night in their clubhouse.

The sight of 56 Burtonians in full Halloween fancy dress as they walked through Parma's old town will live long in the memory and apparently made the local press.

Neither the tour nor the provision of kit across our mini and junior sections would have been possible without the generosity of our sponsors and some of the families with players in our squad. We are very fortunate to have had your support, and we thank you!

Congratulations to Woody on receiving the Players' Player of the Season award, to Frazzle on being named Most Improved Player, and to Crampo on winning the Coaches' Player of the Season award.

Whilst several lads are moving away to different colleges to continue their rugby development, it is encouraging to see so many of our squad decide to move into Colts. The coaches look forward to joining parents on the sidelines as supporters.

Speaking of coaches, it would be remiss not to thank Will, Charlie, Nat, Graeme, Harry and Ben for their dedication and time over the years, which have shaped the lads into the amazing team they have become. Special thanks to George Abel, who started helping us when an injury prevented him from playing senior rugby – he made a real difference to the team's shape and performance.

Eight members of our U16 squad started with the club at U7 level, but regardless of when a player joined us, it has been a privilege and great fun to be part of their rugby journey. What a ride it has been!