Eastbourne Rugby Football Club welcomed 44 teams from across Sussex and Kent for a brilliant day of grassroots rugby, bringing together boys and girls from Under 7s to Under 9s for a festival full of fun, energy and community spirit.

The club was buzzing as young players, coaches and families came together for a fantastic celebration of minis rugby. With teams travelling from two counties, the festival was a wonderful showcase of the sport at its most welcoming, with plenty of exciting rugby, big smiles and memories made both on and off the pitch.

From the first whistle to the final games, the atmosphere was lively, friendly and unmistakably family-orientated. Excited children took to the pitches, parents cheered from the sidelines, and muddy boots were everywhere as the young players threw themselves into the action.

With 44 teams attending, there was no shortage of energy or enthusiasm. The festival provided a great opportunity for boys and girls to enjoy their rugby, develop their skills, support their teammates and make new friends, all while experiencing the camaraderie that makes grassroots rugby so special.

Away from the pitches, there was plenty to keep players, families and spectators fuelled throughout the day. The cake and sweet stall proved a tempting stop for those looking for a treat, while the ice cream van offered a welcome favourite for young and old alike. A hot food trailer kept everyone fed, and the Crosse Bar was open, helping to create a relaxed, sociable atmosphere for families to enjoy.

It was a day that showed everything great about community rugby. The sport brought people together, with clubs sharing the experience, families supporting their children and volunteers helping to make the event such a success.

Eastbourne RFC was delighted to host the festival and welcome so many teams and families to the club. Events like this are an important part of building a thriving rugby community, giving young players the chance to enjoy the game in a positive, supportive environment.
Forty-four teams, plenty of muddy boots, cheering parents and excited kids — it was grassroots rugby at its very best!

A huge thank you to all the visiting clubs, players, coaches, parents and volunteers who helped make it such a fantastic day. We hope everyone enjoyed their time at Eastbourne and look forward to welcoming you back to the club soon.