BBC Rugby Union: Barnard Castle’s Rugby Masters Unearth Emerging Talent

Barnard Castle School, a renowned rugby powerhouse in County Durham, has once again showcased its ability to nurture and develop exceptional talent, with the latest examples being brothers Guy and Max Pepper.

Siblings Earn National Recognition

Flanker Guy Pepper, 21, has already earned a call-up to the England A squad and was included in Steve Borthwick’s initial training group for the upcoming international tests. Meanwhile, his older brother Max, 23, a scrum-half or wing, has been named the BUCS Super Rugby Player of the Season and is currently part of the GB Sevens squad competing in Croatia, as he prepares for the Olympics.

“One teacher who is understandably proud of Guy and Max is Martin Pepper, their father, who is second master at Barnard Castle and a former hooker/flanker with England B and Harlequins,” the article notes.

Martin Pepper, himself a product of the school’s rugby program, described the different paths his sons have taken, with Guy set to join Bath after leaving Newcastle Falcons, while Max has signed with the Falcons and is focused on his GB Sevens commitments.

Barnard Castle’s Rugby Pedigree

The Pepper brothers are the latest in a long line of sibling duos to have emerged from Barnard Castle, joining the likes of Rory and Tony Underwood, Mathew and Alex Tait, and Karl and Lee Dickson – all of whom have gone on to enjoy successful careers at the highest levels of the sport.

The school’s ability to nurture rugby talent is a testament to its long-standing tradition of producing England and British and Irish Lions stars, as well as a Rugby World Cup referee. Former pupils such as Rob Andrew, Tim Visser, and Alex Gray have all gone on to achieve success at the highest level, further cementing Barnard Castle’s reputation as a rugby powerhouse.

As the Pepper brothers continue their respective journeys, the rugby masters at Barnard Castle will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on the next generation of talent emerging from their hallowed halls.

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