Vectis RFC enjoyed a successful weekend of youth rugby, with an emphatic Under-16s league victory and impressive performances at the New Milton Festival.
It was a busy weekend for the Island club, with teams from Under-9s through to Under-16s in action, while players and supporters also enjoyed a trip to Ashton Gate to watch Bristol Bears take on Northampton Saints.
The club also hosted a mental health awareness session and is preparing to see some of its young players take to the pitch at Twickenham.
Under-16s: Eight-Try Triumph Over Bognor
The Under-16s recorded a convincing 48-19 victory over Bognor at Ventnor, producing a strong all-round performance built on physicality, defensive discipline and effective attacking play.
Vectis controlled much of the contest with some outstanding tackling, while a well-functioning lineout allowed the forwards and backs to combine effectively and create opportunities.
Coach Glenn McGinness praised the team’s collective effort, particularly their ability to trust their structure and make the right decisions under pressure.
Under-12s: Determination on Display as New Players Make Debut
Meanwhile, the club’s younger age groups travelled to the New Milton Festival, where the Under-12s demonstrated determination and teamwork despite results not going their way.
The squad welcomed more than 5 new players taking part in their first rugby matches, while Milo impressed with his work at the rucks. A well-placed tactical kick from Ed also created an opportunity for Hugh to chase down the ball and score a try.
Under-11s: Spectacular Tries Steal the Show
The Under-11s enjoyed better weather than at last year’s rain-soaked festival and recovered from a slow start to produce some impressive performances.
Xander stood out with an excellent tackle, while Frank and Josh both scored tries after runs from their own try lines. Owen demonstrated determination after recovering from a heavy tackle to make an immediate impact at the following ruck.
Casey produced an impressive all-round display for Team 1, while Smiffee was praised for his tireless efforts for Team 2.
Under-10s: Youngsters Rise to New Challenge
For the Under-10s, the festival provided an early opportunity to put their rucking and uncontested scrum skills into practice, having been unable to train in contact situations during the summer because of dry pitches.
The team responded well, regularly winning turnovers and defending strongly. Dylan was particularly impressive in defence, while Lucas, Milo and Henry caused problems for the opposition with their attacking runs.
Under-9s: Flying Start to Contact Rugby
It was also a milestone occasion for the Under-9s, who experienced their first competitive contact rugby matches.
Vectis 1 went unbeaten throughout the festival, including an impressive 9-3 victory over hosts New Milton.
Jamie and Cormac made powerful attacking runs, while Arthur impressed with his tackling against much bigger opponents. George contributed several assists, Wilson and Finnley demonstrated their defensive potential, and Teddy delivered a strong all-round performance.
Vectis 2 also enjoyed success, securing 3 victories during the tournament.
Harry scored a hat-trick in a closely contested third match, while Barney, Alasdair, Soren and Ada were among the try scorers throughout the day.
Henry impressed with several strong defensive turnovers, earning himself the nickname ‘The Chiropractor’, while Megan, Sienna and Ellery demonstrated effective running and ball recycling.
Beyond the Pitch: From Ashton Gate to Twickenham
Away from the action, Vectis hosted a LooseHeadz mental health awareness session on Friday, with 10 club members receiving training. Further sessions are planned for volunteers, parents and supporters.
On Saturday, the club’s youngsters travelled to Ashton Gate to watch Bristol Bears defeat Northampton Saints, earning praise from a fellow spectator for being “fantastic ambassadors for Vectis Rugby”.
Meanwhile, several young players and coaches are preparing to visit Twickenham for a schools’ tag rugby tournament, organised in conjunction with Isle of Wight Community Sports Coaching and the Jason Robinson Foundation.
The club has praised Paul for his continued efforts to introduce more young people to rugby through the foundation.
