Last week, we were back at Eton Manor RFC for two sunny days that reminded us exactly why School of Hard Knocks (SOHK) exists. Not because of the scores, or the tries, or even the big hits - but because nearly 350 young people from our partner schools showed us what happens when you give them space to grow, to connect, and to surprise themselves (and us!).

Every year, this tournament feels like a celebration of everything our young people learn in their SOHK sessions. But this year felt particularly special - more energy, more joy, more moments that stopped us in our tracks.

Across 19 and 20 March, pitches across Eton Manor were buzzing from the moment the first students arrived. What we love most is that this is not just a rugby event - it’s a chance for young people who often struggle in school to step into an environment where they can succeed on their own terms.

That’s why we were especially glad to welcome two incredible role models: rugby pioneer Deborah Griffin OBE and England Rugby legend Shaunagh Brown. Both spent time with our teams, chatting pitch‑side, sharing encouragement, and reminding students that they belong in spaces like this. 

Deborah said something that stuck with us all:

“You don’t change a young person’s life in a single moment – you do it through consistent support and opportunities like this.” 

And that really is the heart of this tournament.

The 3Cs in play

Everything we do at SOHK is shaped by our 3Cs framework: Confidence, Connection, and Control - and the tournament is where these qualities become unmistakably visible. All of these moments are built on the work our coaches and mentors do throughout the year, session by session, school by school. The tournament is where those lessons shine.

England's Senior Regional Manager, Michael Sargent, said about the tournament: "What really stood out at our spring tournament was how clearly the young people embodied the 3Cs throughout the day. We saw confidence visibly grow, with the students stepping outside their comfort zone, overcoming fear, dealing with adversity, and finding their voice when interacting with new people."

"Players showed genuine emotional regulation - staying composed through tough tackles, managing the highs of winning and the lows of losing, and continually choosing to respond rather than react."

"So many students supported their teammates selflessly and looked out for players from other schools too. By the end of the tournament, teams were cheering each other on, especially during the final rounds, creating a sense of shared purpose and community that went well beyond competition."

"It was a brilliant reminder of why these events matter: they give young people the space to grow emotionally, connect meaningfully, and discover strengths they didn’t realise they had."

Beyond the tries

Our partnership with Investec continues to allow us to deepen our impact. This is reflected in the experiences of families like that of Khalem, whose story features in SOHK’s latest impact film. 

His mother says: “SOHK changed Khalem's life; I honestly don't know where he would be without it. We went through some hard times with him but feel we have him back. The staff have been amazing.”

Though this tournament wasn’t just an event. It was a reminder of why our work matters, why these young people deserve the absolute best, and why trying together - students, staff, schools, families, Investec, volunteers - is what makes transformation possible.

We’re exhausted. We’re proud. And we cannot wait to do it all again next year!