Eastern Counties Rugby Union

Each county (Cambridgeshire, Norfolk & Suffolk) hosted its own festival, involving all U13 teams within their county; the first round was semi-seeded with all teams playing 4 x 15 minute one way matches, the second round will be seeded so that teams play opposition of a similar standard (but with no overall winners). All teams will then be nominated to one of 5 final tiered all county festivals to be held across Eastern Counties to provide playing opportunities for all U13 players in the CB to develop their skills at an appropriate level, and against teams from the other counties.
Cambridgeshire played at Saffron Walden, with 8 teams from 6 clubs, Cambridge (2 sides), Shelford (2 sides) Saffron Walden, Royston, Ely & Newmarket
Suffolk played at Colchester, with 13 teams from 10 clubs, Bury (2) Ipswich (2) Colchester (2) Woodbridge, Southwold, Ipswich YM, Hadleigh, Stowmarket, Sudbury and a Mistley/Harwich combo
Norfolk played at Norwich with 7 clubs, Walsham, West Norfolk, Holt, Norwich, Crusaders, Wymondham & Beccles
This is the third year that we have run this program, and it is clear that it is a winning formula. Our aim is to provide rugby for all U13s playing club rugby in the CB, and for them to enjoy rugby at their own level, and to contribute to their development. Coaches are now buying into player development rather than winning at all costs, and with around 500 12 & 13 year olds playing, this must provide a great platform for youth rugby in the CB, and for the onward individual development of these youngsters. A huge thanks to all those who help make these festivals such a success.
All 3 events went really well , with competition managers hailing all 3 events a huge success.
Both Suffolk & Norfolk festivals were exclusively refereed by Young Match Officials; the standard of play and sportsmanship from players and spectators was exemplary.
The second round will take place on Sunday 6th January, 12.30 K/Os, provisionally at Holt (Norfolk), Ipswich (Suffolk) & Saffron Walden (Cambridgeshire)
Any queries to Ross Cowie, rossrugby@btinternet.com