Some stories belong to a particular moment. Others seem to transcend time. At the Churchie Rugby Lunch, when Churchie Rugby unveiled its latest video Beneath the Oaklands Sky, what emerged was something far greater than a sports video. Most viewers would have seen the grit, passion and drama of the game. What they may not have realised is the story behind the words that help bring it all to life. Created to inspire today's students, its message has already resonated with many generations of Churchie Old Boys.

For the creative team, comprising Old Boys Anthony Lee (1990) and Grey Rogers (1992), this was never simply about producing a rugby video. It was an opportunity to connect today's students with the rich heritage and values that continue to shape Churchie today. Anthony says: “Developing the narration was no simple task. Drawing on the legacy of Canon Morris and the virtues of St Magnus, the script evolved over several months and through seven drafts, each one digging a little deeper into the legacy of Canon Morris, the enduring spirit of Churchie and the character of Churchie Rugby.” Written as an ode by Anthony and narrated by fellow Old Boy Gyton Grantley (1997), at its heart are words inspired by Canon Morris; words that speak not only to rugby, but to the values that have shaped the School since its earliest days. Drawing on the virtues embodied by St Magnus and the rich Viking heritage that remains part of the School's identity, the result is a reflection on courage, character and purpose.

The production itself reflected those qualities. Filmed by Grey, across a compressed two-and-a-half-day shoot, the project brought together a dedicated team including Churchie’s Head of Arts Stephen Taggart and School Archivist Brian Bodell. The dramatic and gritty atmosphere the filmmakers were hoping to achieve, occurred unexpectedly as nature provided its own theatre and a rain truck prepared for the shoot sat largely unused.

What makes the piece particularly compelling is its timeless quality. The film may evolve over time, but the words remain just as relevant today as they would have been 50 years ago. It was designed to be shared, discussed and enjoyed, with every viewer encouraged to take something meaningful from it.

Pleas click here to view the video.