A traditional drinking ban on DMU’s varsity rugby players will give them the edge over bitter rivals, University of Leicester, claims chairman Chris Mutton.
DMU Men’s Rugby 1st XV
Chris, aiming for a victory in his final year at DMU, also believes a series of unique ‘talking’ sessions will help them in the showdown on Wednesday, March 18, at Welford Road Stadium, home of the ten-time champions of England, Leicester Tigers.
Prior to the big game DMU rugby imposed a drinking ban on the whole squad, a ban that will see every member become teetotal for at least two months. Chris thinks this is pivotal to DMU’s success.
Chris said: “For me, after spending four years here, a drinking ban is very important.
“No time is wasted spending half the day in bed after a night out with a hangover.
“We can start the day in the right frame of mind.”
Varsity Rugby Poster
During this period social events will be primarily focused on team bonding to improve the on field chemistry.
Chris said: “It’ll help bind the team together hugely. The nights out will revolve around conversation which means people will get to know the guys they’re playing with better.”
Chris has also commissioned a third team which should provide first and second team players with added competition for their shirt. The third team will also allow social members of the club to play.
“We’ve always had social members who have been self-proclaimed non-rugby players, but it will give them the opportunity to experience playing and in turn feel more like a society, which is brilliant,” Chris said.
He added: “The competition will get more players down to training as their place could be under threat.”
The squad has been training twice a week on Monday and Friday evenings, with extra fitness sessions on Monday mornings and added training sessions on Wednesday afternoons in the absence of fixtures.
Chris said: “Training has been going as well as it can be. We’ve been making efficient use of what we have available to us and this should hopefully be transferred to the pitch.”
DMU Varsity Launch Event
This year will be Chris’ last at university and he wants to leave with a victory at varsity.
“I’ve won two and lost one, and there’s no better feeling than winning.
“There’s nothing like winning a game of rugby. At Welford Road under the lights, it doesn’t get any better.”
Tickets are on sale now for rugby varsity 2015 priced at £5. Kick-off is at 8.05pm and the match will be preceded by the Women’s Varsity match at 6.30pm. Gates open at 6pm.
By Mark Farmer
