Vectis RFC has rounded off the 2025/26 season with a bumper Isle of Wight Festival of Rugby at Medina College.
Around 5,000 people attended the weekend event, including an estimated 3,500 travelling across the Solent, as the Island hosted what Vectis RFC says is now the largest youth rugby festival in the UK.
The club has described the festival as a “monumental celebration” of the sport, bringing together young players, coaches, families and supporters for a packed weekend of rugby, medals and celebrations.
As the largest youth sports organisation on the Isle of Wight, Vectis RFC says the event showcased the core rugby values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship.
The festival also saw the club announce 2 new ambassadors — Terry O’Neill, from Tour International, and Amy Dale.
Terry has been recognised for his role in helping to grow the festival in recent years, with the club praising his dedication to youth rugby and the boost the event brings to the Isle of Wight economy.
Amy Dale has also been honoured for her continued support of the club and her role in helping the festival run smoothly each year.
A spokesperson for Vectis RFC has said:
“Terry has played a monumental role in our community over recent years. His relentless dedication has helped build this festival into the UK powerhouse it is today, bringing a massive boost to the Isle of Wight economy and championing the sport we love across the Island.
“Amy is a true friend of Vectis and an inspiration to our young people, showing them that if you put the work in and believe in yourself, you can really go on to great things.”
Under-7s enjoy first festival experience
Young players celebrate a memorable first taste of festival rugby.
Vectis RFC’s youngest players rounded off their first year of rugby with a memorable weekend, showing off the skills they have learned during their introduction to tag rugby.
The Under-7s were praised for their speed, teamwork and enthusiasm, before celebrating on stage with their medals.
Under-8s prepare for contact rugby
End of tag era as players gear up for tackling next season.
The Under-8s brought their tag rugby journey to a close with matches against Esher, Dartfordians and Sidcup.
The Cheetahs, Tigers 2.0 and Lions all impressed across the weekend, with standout moments including strong support play, determined tagging and plenty of attacking flair.
The emotional final de-tagging marked the end of an era, with the squad now preparing to move into tackling next season.
Under-9s produce standout team try
Free-flowing rugby highlights growing confidence and cohesion.
The Under-9s faced strong opposition from Hampstead, Dartfordians and Esher, showing the benefits of their winter training with a committed defensive press and direct running.
Lyle impressed on the wing, Milo carried strongly through contact, while Libby and Noah led the defensive effort with some major tackles.
There was also a club debut for Jake, while one of the team’s best moments came in the penultimate game when every player touched the ball in a flowing move that ended with a superb team try.
Under-10s dominate with unbeaten weekend
Three teams combine for remarkable unbeaten record.
Vectis RFC’s Under-10s fielded 3 teams and produced an outstanding record of 16 wins and 1 draw.
The group’s focus throughout the weekend was support play, with players working hard to make extra tackles, hit rucks and stay connected as a team.
Coach Allan said:
“When choosing a player of the day is impossible, you know it has been an incredible team display. These are the bonds that last a lifetime.”
Under-12s lift Festival Shield
Strong Sunday comeback secures silverware.
The Under-12s endured a tough opening day, with 3 draws from 4 tight group matches, but returned on Sunday determined to finish strongly.
Their response was emphatic, with the Lions battling their way to the top to win the competition and lift the Festival Shield.
Under-14s show resilience against strong opposition
Determination shines despite tough results.
Vectis RFC’s Under-14s faced a difficult weekend against high-quality opponents, but were praised for their resilience and effort.
Henry led by example, while Ethan, Ollie, James, Theo and Kenzo worked tirelessly in the backfield and at the ruck.
Oscar, George, Max and Riley helped keep the ball moving, while new boy Stanley was named Man of the Tournament after an impressive all-round performance and a debut try.
World Cup winner Jason Robinson to visit Wootton
England legend set to attend schools finals day at Vectis RFC later this month.
The Jason Robinson Foundation, in partnership with Isle of Wight Community Sports Coaching, will host a major Tag Rugby Finals Day at Vectis RFC.
School teams from across the Island are set to compete in the tournament at Wootton Recreation Ground.
Rugby union legend Jason Robinson — a World Cup winner with England — is expected to attend in person.
The event will take place on Wednesday 21st May.
