On a balmy Autumn evening, the Mill Hill 1st XV training session was underway as onlookers were serenaded with the Jazz of "the Mill Hill Collective". However, this wasn't just any ordinary session, this was the beginning of the launch of the new Mill Hill and Saracens Group Partnership, with several esteemed guests from the Saracens Group in attendance. The rugby players benefitted particulalry from the guidance of one of the visitors, Saracens player Ivan van Zyl, who assisted with the training, giving pointers to the pupils as the session progressed.

Following on from the boys training - and some delicious refreshments - the Director of Sport at MHS and host for the evening, Aaron Liffchak gathered everyone to start the more official portion of the evening. Having previously played at prop for Saracens, Aaron reflected on how, ever since he joined Mill Hill five years ago, it had been his dream to witness the creation of a partnership between Mill Hill and Saracens Group and it was incredible to see his vision realised. 

Head of Mill Hill, Jane Sanchez echoed Aaron's sentiments as she thanked the attendees, commenting on the history of Rugby at Mill Hill. She proudly displayed the newly signed Candian Women's Rugby team shirt - the team had visited Mill Hill that afternoon and had left a wonderful momento before they headed off to their match against England at StoneXStadium down the road.

The Guests from Saracens, Lucy Wray (CEO, Saracens Group), Phil Morow (General Manager, Saracens Group) and Ivan van Zyl (Saracens player) then sat on a panel with Chris Bajak (Head of Performance Rugby at Mill Hill and Saracens Academy) and Jodie Gibson (Head of Netball at Mill Hill School and Captain, Saracens Mavericks). The panellists answered questions about their careers, their sporting achievements and gave advice to the young players in the attendance. Afterwards, a panel of pupils - heads of Hockey, Rugby and Netball teams - followed. The pupils were very articulate as they relayed their experiences growing up in the Foundation, playing sports and honing their skills.

A wonderful afternoon was had by all - a big thank you to the pupils who took part, and Lucy, Phil and Ivan, Chris and Jodie for taking the time to come meet the pupils and parents and share their wisdom with everyone.