A fantastic day of youth rugby took place at the Cheltenham Tigers RFC as the Defender Rising Stars Cup, hosted by Gloucester Rugby in partnership with PREM Rugby, brought together the southwest’s top grassroots talent.
Twenty-three clubs, including Dursley RFC, competed in the Under-11s and Under-12s festival, which is part of a nationwide series of events designed to give young players the experience of playing in a professional-style environment beyond their local area.
Under-11s teams were judged on rugby’s core values — teamwork, respect, enjoyment, and discipline — with a focus on development and participation rather than match results. Many children were playing on a club pitch for the first time, displaying determination, flair, and camaraderie while cheered on by proud parents and coaches.
Gloucester Rugby star Cam Jordan said: “What a great day of rugby at the Gloucester Defender Rising Stars Cup. It was impressive to see so many young players display skill and passion for the game, working together as a team and showing respect for officials and the competition. Competitions such as this help young players grow and develop into the next generation of players.”
Since 2008, more than 125,000 children have taken part in the Defender Rising Stars Festival, with some advancing to professional play for PREM Rugby clubs.
Dursley Under-11 player Daniel Baines said: “It’s really fun to be here and compete. There are some brilliant teams.” Coach Cheril Baines added: “It’s a great event, really well planned, and with teams we haven’t come across before. We hope to come back next year.”
These festivals form part of PREM Rugby’s commitment to developing grassroots rugby, supported by Defender for nearly two decades.
