I will use a quote from one of our parents that summarises not only tour but also our club.
“Well, where do I start. What an amazing weekend, it's fair to say that Tom and I have experienced something very new and very special over the last few days. The welcome and inclusiveness that we have received from everyone at the club is first class. All the boys have played out of their skins, the coaches have done a great job getting them to such a high standard, in all five areas, and as for the work that goes on behind the scenes, AWESOME.” Rob, U8’s dad
This year we had the largest group in terms of team and players at the festival that welcomes for the first time a team from the Czech Republic, Petrovice.
The Festival organiser Gulliver adjusted their festival format this year to meet new RFU minis rugby regulations. A round-robin festival with awards for the 5 RFU core values – Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportmanship for the U7 to U11s.

All our age groups came away with at least one award.
U7 Disciplined Team Award
William Randall – U7s Player of the tournament
U8 Disciplined Team Award
Respect Award
Teamwork Award
U9 Sportsmanship Award
U10 Disciplined Team Award
Respect Award
U11 EnjoymentAward

Similar at U12, a round-robin festival with only winners and runner-up being awarded a trophy.
The U12 fielded two mixed teams and came out stronger for it, now moving into U13s next season. We look forward to giving them a good sending off on Sunday.

Last but not least a big thanks to the team of parents that made things happen, Martin Botha, who lead the organisation of the tour and the age group tour managers who managed a faultless display in organising the catering for all the age groups in particular Elaine Warwick who organised the Hog Roasts for the whole group and Nicola Tatum for the Fish and Chips as well as Paul Jessett for the hoodies and beanies.

I look forward to seeing everyone back at OBR on Sunday for the minis end of season awards and pizza lunch.

Mark Pett-Ridge Mini Manager
Photo by Matt Leonard