Have you ever combined two of your greatest passions into a single project? At the end of last year, I did just that, by entering the prestigious Rugby Photographer of the Year competition. Organised by the renowned Rugby Journal, which highlights the best in rugby, celebrating the sport’s spirit through extraordinary storytelling and imagery. As a devoted reader of the rugby Journal, delivery day is always a treat—it perfectly combines my love for rugby and photography.

Last week, the shortlist for the competition was announced, and while my photos weren’t selected, I’m incredibly proud of the work I submitted to this global rugby photography contest. The shortlist contained outstanding images from across the rugby world - grassroots rugby, professional matches, and everything in between - reminding me why I love this sport so deeply. Rather than being disappointed, I am Inspired by the talent on display, motivating me to refine my rugby photography further. Although I wasn’t shortlisted this time, I’m thrilled to share my rugby photos with you below and I hope they capture the same passion for the game that inspired me to take them.

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Action

This photo is my submission for the “Action” category and see Northampton Saints, Burger Odendaal, going over for a Try against Saracens last year at Cinch Stadium at Franklins Gardens.

I really liked this action shot as he is celebrating whilst in the air as he goes over the try line. All whilst there are some dejected Saracens players in the background already walking back to get behind the posts as the inevitable takes pace before them.

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Portrait

My submission for the “Portrait” category is of S&L RFC’s Louis Trimble. During a tense moment in a home fixture he contemplates the teams next move as they walk to the line out.

Louis is the teams Vice Captain but is also responsible for their line out calls. One he takes very seriously and rarely gets wrong. This photo was taken during the Clubs unbeaten run., more on that later.

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Spirit

This photo, submitted for the “Spirit” category, shows Stewarts & Lloyds prop Dan Martin front and centre with the squad surrounding him, celebrating the culmination of the squads efforts as they win the league unbeaten!

I was a bit spoilt last season with this incredible squad and had many moments like this to choose from but this one just stood out to me.

Portfolio

Lastly it’s the “Portfolio” category. I deliberated over this one the longest. It was no easy feat trying to pick out my 10 favourite photos that showed the passion of the players and club members of S&L RFC, as they completed a once in a lifetime achievement. It was an incredible experience to document their journey and be able to provide the club with photos to remember the "Greatest Season' the club has ever seen. Some of these images have also been published in Rugby Club Magazine, Issue 98 as well as a recent Northampton Saints programme where they were selected as "Club of the Match".

I will let the photos speak for themselves, but I hope they convey the message of determination, teamwork, joy, triumph and adulation of the whole squad and club. I already have ideas on where to improve for my next portfolio submission at the end of this year. Whilst disappointed I did not have any photos chosen, I am keeping an open and positive mindset going forward and ensuring I continue my journey to photograph the sport I love.

If you would like to check out The Rugby Journal, which I highly suggest any rugby fan to do, click here.

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