🏉 From U8s to U16s – Still Playing, Still Eltham

At Eltham Rugby Club, we love to see young players grow through the game. This week, we were reminded just how powerful that experience can be.

Victor, one of our long-standing team managers, shared a photo from his twins very first Under 8s game in 2017. That year, we had such strong numbers that we fielded two full Under 8 teams: the Eltham Blacks and the Eltham Reds.

In the photo, there is a group of young enthusiastic players proudly wearing their Eltham colours, with many of them playing the Great Game of Rugby for the first time.

Now, eight years later, five of those players now young men are still wearing the jersey as part of our Under 16s Melton/Eltham squad. Trent Murray, Travis Murray, and Ben Hurdle started with the Under 8 Blacks, while Khyall Mdehwa and Stefan Van Der Merwe began with the Under 8 Reds. They are still playing and still representing Eltham.

Over the years, the team has faced ups and downs, but we are proud to say this core group of players has stayed together and made it to several Grand Finals. The game of rugby has taught these players discipline, respect for the game and their opponents, and the true meaning of teamwork. These qualities have been developed both on and off the field.

This story is a wonderful reminder of what is possible when young players find a club that feels like home. It is also a tribute to the dedicated Eltham Rugby Committee and all the sponsors, volunteers, coaches, parents and players who make our club possible.

As our Get into Rugby program wraps up for 2025, we are already planning ahead. Whether your child is 7 or 17, new to the game or returning, we would love for them to join us in 2026. Our next season will begin with fun, family-oriented touch rugby games where everyone is welcome before pre-season training begins. Please reach out to our Junior Coordinators at [email protected] to find out more.