CSM freshers get the chop ahead of Bottle Match showdown

First-year players at Camborne School of Mines received distinctive haircuts as part of the Bottle Match tradition, and the team has raised £7,879 so far this year for mental health charity Sport in Mind.

Players from the Camborne School of Mines Rugby Club have taken part in a traditional haircut ritual this week ahead of the Bottle Match. The first-year squad received distinctive styles as part of a fundraising drive tied to the varsity fixture. The team has raised £7,879 towards a £10,000 target, following last year’s campaign which topped £10,000. The funds support Sport in Mind, which provides free sport and physical activity sessions for people experiencing mental health challenges. Key points: - Freshers at CSM underwent dramatic haircut transformations as part of the Bottle Match tradition. - The 2026 team has raised £7,879 so far and set a £10,000 target for the campaign. - Funds are directed to Sport in Mind, which runs free sport and activity sessions for people with mental health challenges. - The Town Barbers in Falmouth donated their time to create the distinctive styles. - The Bottle Match was founded in 1902 and is reported as the second-oldest varsity fixture in the world. - This year’s match is scheduled for 2pm on Saturday 21 February at Penryn Rugby Club, with entry priced at £2 and Royal School of Mines as last year’s winner. Summary: The haircut tradition remains a visible part of CSM’s team culture and a steady fundraising source for mental health activity provision. The Bottle Match returns to Cornwall on Saturday 21 February at Penryn Rugby Club, where players, alumni and local supporters will gather for the fixture.