Bournville Rugby Club's veterans' team, The Hippo's, has been awarded the 2009 RFU President's XV Veterans Award after staving off stiff competition from numerous sides around the country. Hippo's captain Mike Le Quelenec, pictured receiving the award from Peter Grace.

The team, made up of players who are 35 years old plus, was launched in 2007 by club stalwarts Adam "He Man" Hardy and Mike Le Quelenec after a number of retired players showed interest in playing occasionally. Adam Hardy explains, "We realised that there was still some life in a number of old dogs at the club and a dormant desire to continue enjoying the great game of rugby, albeit at a more sedate pace."

Having started from a modest playing base during 2007, The Hippos have graduated to a 40+ playing membership, a dedicated fixture list and an enviable family-based loyal following of supporters. They even have their own motto in Latin “pinguis tardus quod turpis” which roughly translates to "fat, slow and ugly!" Due to the team’s success, sponsorship for their playing kit has been secured and a Hippo of the Year Award was presented to star prop, Andrew Wilson, at the recent annual club dinner.

The award, together with a cheque for £500, was formally presented to the team by North Midlands RFU President, Peter Grace who commended the Hippos on their success in such a short period of existence.

Club Chairman Dave Boehmer added, “This national award is a fantastic recognition of the club’s continuing growth and strength as we enter our centenary year. I would very much like to thank the RFU for considering us. The Hippos have certainly been an unqualified success by bringing back some old faces as well as incorporating fathers from the junior/mini rugby sides."