Excited young players enjoy Aviva Mini Rugby Festival in Westport
THERE were many excited young rugby players in west Mayo on Saturday week last when the final Aviva Mini Rugby Provincial Festival took place in Westport RFC.
The Connacht Provincial Festival saw teams from across the province come together and play, with representation from An Ghaeltacht RFC, Ballina RFC, Castlebar RFC, Claremorris RFC, Corinthians RFC, Galway Bay RFC, Galwegians RFC, Gort RFC, Monivea RFC, Sligo RFC, Tuam RFC and the host club, to name but a few.
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A Ballina player crosses the line for a try. ©INPHO/Tom MaherImage 2 of 6
Westport and Ballina players in action. ©INPHO/Tom MaherImage 3 of 6
A group from Ballina in Westport for the Aviva Mini Rugby Festival. ©INPHO/Tom MaherImage 4 of 6
A Castlebar player makes a break against Sligo. ©INPHO/Tom MaherImage 5 of 6
Pictured is the Westport team at their own grounds for the Aviva Mini Rugby Festival. ©INPHO/Tom MaherImage 6 of 6
Players from Connemara RFC (right) and Sligo RFC at the Aviva Mini Rugby Festival in Westport. ©INPHO/Tom MaherThe Aviva Mini Rugby Provincial Festivals were launched earlier this year by Munster legend Ronan O’Gara, with the postponed 2021 festivals taking place back in April.
The festivals are crucial to the rugby development of young boys and girls across the country as they get the chance to play against their peers while learning new tips and tricks, in a safe, non-competitive and enjoyable environment.
Over 2,000 children have participated in this year’s Aviva Mini Rugby Festivals, with provincial festivals taking place in Bangor RFC (Ulster), Old Crescent RFC (Munster) and Kilkenny Rugby Club (Leinster) throughout the month. Many of those who showcased their skills at Westport RFC will see their dreams come true when the Aviva Mini Rugby National Festival returns to the home of Irish rugby, Aviva Stadium, early next summer.