From Bears to Yate, Whitehall and Quins: Welcoming Coach Sam Rogers to Our U14s

At Yate Rugby Academy, we’re always looking for ways to grow, support, and inspire the next generation of players and that goes for our coaches too. This season, we’re thrilled to

welcome Sam Rogers to our U14s coaching team, bringing with him experience from the Bristol Bears Community Foundation, Bears Academy Pathway and his journey through the England Rugby Advanced Coaching Award.

Sam’s arrival has been nothing short of inspiring, not just for the team but for the whole Academy.

A Journey That Started With One Question

Sam shared that his path to the team began with a simple LinkedIn post asking if any club could support him as he worked toward his coaching qualification. When he was contacted by Matt Kitson, one of Yate Academy coaches, he didn’t quite expect the response he got.

“The first thing Matt asked me was, ‘How can WE help you?’ It wasn’t about Yate, or the team, or the Bears—it was purely about supporting a fellow coach. That really stuck with me.”

What followed was a conversation that hooked Sam immediately. The story of three clubs; Bristol Harlequins, Whitehall, and Yate coming together to form one U14s squad resonated deeply with him. “Three clubs putting their badges to one side, just to give kids the chance to play rugby, that’s worth nurturing. I knew I had to be part of it.”

Vision for the Season

Sam’s vision for the U14s is clear: help players towards their goals off the back of strong team spirit where players care.

“The lads are so dedicated. They turn up, train hard, and want progress. Pre-season was tough, I wasn’t looking forward to broncos or shuttles, but when all the coaches and even some parents joined in, the competition and energy just fuelled this amazing team spirit.

That’s my goal for the season: grow as individual players and support each other as a group. When we’re up, we celebrate each other, and when we’re down, we look after each other.”

More Than Just Rugby Skills

For Sam, coaching isn’t just about passing, tackling, or running lines. It’s about strong team values.

“In the first few weeks, I wanted to sit back and watch the dynamics of the team. But the lads pulled me straight in. I was introduced as a coach from day one, reviewing training plans, calling plays, and working alongside the other coaches. Before long, I wasn’t just a guest coach, I was part of the Yate/Whitehall/Quins coaching team. And I am 100% invested for the season.”

Why THIS team Feels Special

When asked what excites him most about being part of this Rugby team, Sam didn’t hesitate:

“The lads. They want to be here. They want to be one group. They want to develop. And they’ve got an amazing group of coaches, parents, and volunteers behind them who care deeply for them and want to share their passion and knowledge.”

That commitment, Sam says, is what makes this squad and these clubs so great to work with.

Advice for Young Players

Sam’s advice for anyone new to rugby is simple:

“Give it your best go. Ask LOTS of questions. And there’s a part of the game that everyone can love”

Because at the end of the day, rugby isn’t just a sport—it’s about being curious, becoming confidence, and having a community.

We’re so excited to have Sam on board, and we can’t wait to see how his experience, passion, and energy help shape the future of our U14s team. Welcome to OUR Rugby family, Sam, you’re already making an impact!