Ben Oliphant-Thompson, 150 Caps

Vineyard Manager, Titan Warrior: Ben Oliphant Thompson Reaches 150 Games

In the world of rugby, certain players become more than just teammates — they become fixtures, leaders, and standard bearers for the club they represent. For Taunton Titans, few embody that spirit more than Ben Oliphant Thompson, who recently passed the landmark of 150 appearances in Taunton colours.

Ben’s journey with the Titans is one of commitment, resilience, and quiet determination. Since making his debut as a teenager fresh from Blundells School, he has grown into a cornerstone of the squad — a player equally valued for his work rate on the pitch as for the character he brings off it. Whether anchoring the scrum in the second row or bringing dynamism from the back row, Ben has always put the team first, a quality that has earned him the admiration of supporters and teammates alike.

From Blundells to the Bathpool

Rugby has been central to Ben’s life since his school days. Making his 1st XV debut while still in Year 11, he quickly caught the eye of Tony Yapp, who encouraged him to step up into men’s rugby with Taunton. Originally a schoolboy prop, Ben soon found his calling in the back row, where his athleticism and endurance could shine. Though he laughs at the running joke that he’ll do anything to avoid the front row, his willingness to fill in wherever needed has made him indispensable.

Over the years, he has worn the Titans jersey with pride through highs and lows, always setting standards with his relentless energy. The 150-game milestone is a reflection not just of longevity but of consistency — the kind of reliability every coach dreams of.

The Vineyard Manager

Away from the rugby field, Ben leads a life just as full of graft, adventure, and variety. As Vineyard Manager at Kenton Park Estate, his family’s thriving business, no two days look the same. From managing harvests and overseeing the vineyard to leading tours, tastings, and even dabbling in brandy production, Ben thrives on the unpredictability of the role.

“The day we replanted the vineyard, loads of my mates — including rugby mates — came to help,” he recalls. “We were a real mix of people, and we became known as the ‘Motley Cru’. That sense of community has stayed with us.”

It’s that same community spirit that he brings to the Titans — the willingness to muck in, get his hands dirty, and lead by example.

Built on Endurance

Unlike many forwards who chase sheer power in the gym, Ben’s training reflects his love of endurance. He has competed in triathlons, values mobility over bulk, and benefits from a working life spent outdoors. That fitness base has allowed him to adapt as the demands of the game and his position evolve.

It’s also made him the kind of player who can last the pace — whether it’s digging deep in the final 10 minutes of a tight league clash or rolling up his sleeves for a day in the vineyard.

Looking Ahead

For Ben, 150 games is a marker of the journey so far, but not the end point. His ambitions remain high: for the Titans to push on and compete at the highest level possible, and for himself to continue playing an integral role.

“I just love being out there,” he says with characteristic humility. “As long as I’m starting games and enjoying my rugby, I don’t mind too much where I’m playing. It’s about giving everything for the team.”

As the Titans faithful raise a glass — perhaps even of Kenton Park’s finest — to toast his achievement, one thing is certain: Ben Oliphant Thompson is not just part of the furniture at Veritas Park, he is part of the fabric.

Here’s to the next 150.

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