THE TOURNAMENT -started in 1999 when 16 teams played and the inaugural Winners were Merchiston Castle, Edinburgh - the Master i/c was one Frank Haddon - now managing the Scottish team at the World Cup in France!
This is not our only connection with the Rugby World Cup - that very first final was refereed by Ian Ramage, who while living in Whitley Bay, had just returned from officiating in that years World Cup. And four years ago another Scottish Referee -Malcolm Changling officiated - he will be at this years World Cup.
Dave Pearson -one of the RFU's professional referees spent the first day of his contract officiating at this tournament.
Following Merchiston, the winners have all been from Bristol - Colston Collegiate and Filton College sharing the honours.
The Plate competition has seen more success for schools from the North-East - Barnard Castle and Tynedale Schools being among the winners.
Indeed I believe that another connection with the World Cup comes with the selection of Mathew Tait, Newcastle Falcons and ex-Barnard Castle! He played in their tournament side some years ago.
Of the Schools playing in 2007, only Woodhouse Grove have not visited us before - indeed Merchiston, Fettes, Edinburgh Academy, RGS Newcastle, Barnard Castle, Yarm, Northumberland and Tynedale have played each year. Connacht have missed a couple, QEGS Wakefield are on their fourth, Durham on their third visits and Stowe their second.
Barnard Castle made their second appearance in the Daily Mail u/18 final in three years earlier this year -while our new visitors won the Daily Mail u/15 final - congratulations.
Several others have played - Arnold School Blackpool, Giggleswick, St Bees Cumbria, King's School, Tynemouth, Glantaff Cardiff, Christ College Brecon and St Joseph's Roscrea have all made at least two visits. Monmouth School played in the first Tournament.
Another connection with the World Cup - Doddie Weir and Epi Taione -Newcastle Falcons, Played for Scotland and Tonga respectively in at least one World Cup each-they presented the successful schools with the Trophies one year.
Out initial Tournament was sponsored largely by the Club with assistance from Tarmac, Tynedale Council, Northumberland County Council and the Hexham Courant. Last Year , this year and we hope the next two years we are delighted to have the sponsorship of Northumbria University.