HUNDREDS of aspiring young rugby stars converged at Salisbury Rugby Football Club for the Defender Rising Stars Cup, hosted by Bath Rugby in partnership with PREM Rugby.

Nineteen grassroots clubs from across the southwest took part in a day of competitive rugby which showcased the passion and commitment of the game’s next generation of players.

The annual Under-11s and Under-12s festival is one of a series of nationwide events hosted by PREM Rugby clubs which provide young players the opportunity to experience playing within a professional environment against teams from outside of their immediate local area.

The Under-11s teams were judged on rugby’s core values - teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship - with the focus on development and participation rather than match results. The winners were Somerton RFC, while the winners of the U12s festival were Salisbury RFC.

For many of the youngsters, it was their first time stepping onto a club pitch. Cheered on by proud parents and coaches, the teams played with determination, flair, and a real sense of camaraderie.

Watching the rugby gameplay before handing out the prizes at the end of festival awards ceremony were Bath Rugby stars Thomas du Toit, Will Jeanes, Jasper Spandler and Bernard van der Linde. Since the first Defender Rising Stars Festival in 2008, more than 125,000 children have taken part, with some even going on to play professionally for PREM Rugby clubs.

It was certainly a day to remember for all the young players who took part in the event.

These festivals form part of PREM Rugby’s commitment to developing the game at grassroots level.

Defender has supported grassroots rugby in the UK for nearly two decades through the Defender Rising Stars Cup in partnership with PREM Rugby.

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