The historic sporting legacy of a leading independent school will be celebrated when two of its decorated alumni brothers take to the Premiership rugby field tomorrow (Saturday).
Brothers Max and Guy Pepper will face off against one another when Bath Rugby host Newcastle Falcons – Max for Newcastle and Guy for Bath – in what could be the first Gallagher Premiership head-to-head between the siblings and former students at Barnard Castle School (Barney).
The fixture is another proud moment in the County Durham-based school’s rich sporting history, further validating its extraordinary legacy in developing elite-level rugby talent, affectionately referred to as ‘Old Barnardians’ within the school’s community.
Remarkably Barney has produced four sets of brothers who have gone on to represent top-tier English clubs: Rory and Tony Underwood, Karl and Lee Dickson, Mathew and Alex Tait, and now Max and Guy Pepper.
Guy Pepper with Alex Tait
From the jet-heeled brilliance of Rory and Tony Underwood to the sharp-witted dynamism of Karl and Lee Dickson, the explosive flair of Mathew and Alex Tait, and now the raw power and promise of Max and Guy Pepper, Barney has become synonymous with producing sporting excellence.
This weekend’s fixture represents a sibling rivalry years in the making, rooted in shared ambition and Northern brotherly grit. However, it isn’t just the athletic pedigree, but the balance the dynamic young players strike off the pitch. The Peppers have both earned degrees from Durham University, embodying the school’s core ethos of education, character and community.
That same ethos runs through the lives of the three other sets of Old Barnardians. Mathew Tait, who earned 36 England caps, is now shaping global rugby as the General Manager of Emirates Dubai 7s & Stadia. Alex, a club stalwart with 269 appearances for the Falcons, has transitioned into a successful career in Wealth Management.
Karl Dickson, following 169 appearances for Harlequins, has now carved out a new legacy as an international referee, while Lee, after earning 18 England caps, has returned full circle as Barney’s Master i/c Rugby.
Rory Underwood, England’s all-time leading try scorer and former RAF fighter pilot, is now a leading business strategist through his company, Wingman Ltd, while his brother Tony, who also donned the Red Rose jersey with distinction, transitioned to a career as an Airbus A380 captain for Emirates. He is now the CCE of Believe Solutions and Ambassador for Newcastle Rugby Foundation.
Martin Pepper, Barnard Castle School’s Second Master and father of Max and Guy, said: “These Old Barnardians legacies are not just celebrated at Barney they’re built upon, season after season.
“We thrive on our sense of community at Barney. It is not just about our continued production of elite rugby players, it’s about every individual feeling they are part of something special and can aspire to be who and what they want to be.
“Learning to be a game changer at Barney isn’t theoretical, it’s lived, it’s developed on the pitch, in the classroom, in chapel and in the boarding houses.
“Whether it’s a prefect stepping up for a younger pupil, or a team captain rallying their squad, every child learns what it means to be responsible, to care, and to lead with conviction.”
Lee Dickson, Master in charge of Rugby at Barnard Castle School, added: “I was determined that my children experienced a similar education to me.
“I loved my time at Barney and I wanted them to be provided with the opportunities I was given. That sense of continuity is what sets Barney apart. It’s not just a school, it’s a home and a place where pupils are supported to strive, lead, and grow through sport, yes, but equally through music, the arts, and leadership opportunities that shape the whole person.”
Lee Dickson in action with Northampton Saints and at school
