YOUNGSTERS from Silhillians RUFC took part in the Defender Rising Stars Cup hosted by Gloucester Rugby.
The club’s under-11 and under-12 players took to the pitch at the home of Cheltenham Tigers.
Some 23 clubs took part in the competition with the focus on development and participation rather than match results.
Teams were judged on rugby’s core values – teamwork, respect, enjoyment and discipline.
The annual under-11 and under-12s festival marks one of a series of national events hosted by PREM Rugby.
Silhillians under-12 player, Joshua Nuttall said: “The pitches were great, the sportsmanship was really good and there were some great players and matches.”
Silhillians coach, Mike Gowen added: “It’s been an amazing experience for the boys. It’s been great for us to play different clubs.
“We played clubs with a whole different style of rugby which was fantastic.
“It’s really well organised, the club’s picturesque, there was fantastic parking, the referees were great and all the coaches were brilliant so it’s been a really good experience.”
Gloucester player, Cam Jordan said: “What a great day of rugby at the Gloucester Defender Rising Stars Cup.
“It was impressive to see so many young players display impressive skill and passion for the game, working together as team and showing respect for the officials and the competition.
“Despite being at the start of their rugby journeys to see so many kids displaying the values of our game will only benefit the future of our sport.
“Competitions such as this help young players grow and develop further into the next generation of players.”
Since the first Defender Rising Stars Festival in 2008, more than 125,000 children have taken part, with some going on to play professionally for PREM Rugby clubs.
