NEW SPRINGS LEGION LIONS U14s TOUR TO KAZAN RUSSIA MAY 2007
The U14's Legion Lions travelled beyond the Iron Curtain to take on some of Russia’s best known and successful youth rugby teams and take in some of the sights of Kazan.
The squad landed in Kazan after a nine-hour flight before visiting some of the city’s most eyecatching sites including Kazan Stadium, Kazan’s Kremlin and a Russian orthodox church.
The team was guarded at all times by Russian police but the team proved so popular with the locals that they had their own female cheering section at the matches.
The team also made an appearance on Kazan's leading morning TV show, as well as being followed by a production team making a documentary on thr rugby tournament which took part in the middle of the country's Victory Days celebrations.
Eric Fanning club chairman of the U14s, said "It was very surreal being followed by cameras all the time."
The side came second against sides like Moscow Dynamo, Kazan Energy and Penza Imperia.
Eric said: “Some of the lads that our boys came up against were huge, but all credit to our lads.”
RUSSIA RL
New Springs Legion Lions from Wigan reached the final of the inaugural ‘Kazan Under 14's Victory Cup’ this weekend but could not overcome home side Energia, going down 24-10 in the decider.
Eight teams took part in the tournament which is set to become an annual event after being given a place in the official Russian Sporting Calendar.
Four Moscow-based clubs - Locomotive, Dinamo, Nord and Cherkisovo - joined two from Tatarstan - Strela Kazan and Energia Kazan; Empire Penza and NSLL.
The Lions were took a squad of 18 along with parents, manager Eric Fanning and Greater Manchester Police representative Ian Parker.
Each side played five matches and Tournament Director Alex Denisov, commented; "The boys had a great time and that’s what it’s all about. We are hoping to see a few more British clubs/teams taking part in this tournament in May next year."
Local Councillors.
We would like to thank our local ward councillors for Aspull and New Springs for their support and help during the U14s Victory Cup Tournament in Kazan, Russia in May 2007 and continued support.
Chris Ready.
John Hilton.
Jean Beswick.
Click the following link below and select ward for councillor search and Aspull,New Springs,Whelley as the district
U14s Team photo before departing to Kazan.
Site-seeing with Kazan coach
Eric Fanning and Dave Berry with cup
.BMP)
