Hampshire RFU Schools Touch Festival Brings Together 12 schools and 140 Young Players in Pilot Event

Hampshire RFU, on behalf of Hampshire Schools RFU, proudly hosted its inaugural Year 5/6 Schools Touch Rugby Festival, bringing together 140 children from across the county for a fantastic celebration of rugby, teamwork and participation.

Following local School Games competitions, 12 schools from across Hampshire were invited to take part in the pilot festival, creating an exciting opportunity for young players to represent their schools and enjoy a day of competitive touch rugby.

The event was organised by Hampshire RFU’s Executive Director and expertly scheduled by School Rugby Manager (Havant, Gosport and Portsmouth), Luke Worthington, who used Tournify to ensure a smooth running order.

A team of 16 student leaders from Barton Peveril College played a pivotal role throughout the day. Having received training in college pre event, the leaders delivered warm-up activities, officiated matches and helped create a positive and enjoyable environment for every player involved. Their enthusiasm made them excellent role models throughout the day, demonstrating the TREDS values in the way they led, supported participants and represented the game.

Hampshire RFU would like to thank County Women’s Team Manager and Trojans Safeguarding Lead, Vicki Berry, alongside Trojans Youth Chair and Hampshire RFU Young Rugby Ambassador Champion, Dan Power, for their support in delivering the event. A huge thank you to Trojans FC for hosting the event – especially marking out the pitches.

The participating schools were:

  • Cherbourg Primary School
  • Fair Oak Junior School
  • Liss School
  • Ludlow Junior School
  • Matchwood Primary School
  • Padnell Junior School
  • Queen’s Inclosure Primary School
  • Ropley Church of England Primary School
  • Spring Hill Primary School
  • The Crescent Primary School
  • Townhill Junior School

Throughout the day, teams competed in round-robin pool stages before progressing to final placement matches against teams from the corresponding pool positions, ensuring every school enjoyed meaningful and competitive rugby. Every child left with a smile and a medal!

The festival demonstrated the growing appetite for touch rugby within Hampshire schools and highlighted the positive impact that strong partnerships between schools, volunteers, colleges and rugby clubs can have on providing memorable sporting experiences for young people. A show of hands demonstrated that less than a third of the 130 children played in a community rugby club and as a result Hampshire RFU is sending the schools a list of clubs local to their catchment areas to help encourage transition to club rugby.

Hampshire RFU would like to thank all players, teachers, volunteers, officials and supporters who contributed to the success of this pilot event. We look forward to building on its success and welcoming even more schools to future festivals.

Festival Winners: Queens Inclosure Primary, Waterlooville

Hampshire RFU Senior Men Reach Twickenham Final After Thrilling Semi-Final Victory

Hampshire RFU 37 – 36 Oxfordshire RFU
Bill Beaumont County Championship Division 3 Semi-Final

On another scorching afternoon at Havant RFC, Hampshire RFU Senior Men secured their place in the Bill Beaumont County Championship Division 3 Final with a dramatic 37-36 victory over Oxfordshire RFU.

While not quite matching the scoreline of last weekend’s encounter against Surrey, this semi-final had everything else – momentum swings, physicality, attacking flair and a nail-biting finish that kept supporters on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

The visitors made a strong start, crossing for a try after just three minutes to underline the threat posed by their dangerous broken-field runners. Hampshire, however, gradually worked their way into the contest, with the game developing into a fascinating contrast of styles. Oxfordshire looked to exploit space and counter-attack opportunities, while Hampshire relied on their well-structured and powerful forward game to gain control.

As the half progressed, strong Hampshire play at the breakdown forced a number of penalties, and Oxfordshire were reduced to 14 men shortly before half-time when a player was shown a yellow card. Hampshire’s pack then asserted itself and after a series of powerful carries, helped the hosts dominate the closing stages of the half. That sustained pressure was rewarded on the scoreboard as Hampshire overturned the early deficit to take a 27-19 lead into the break.

Hampshire extended their advantage early in the second half with a penalty, but Oxfordshire refused to go away, responding with a converted try to keep themselves firmly in contention. Both sides continued to trade scores in a fiercely contested encounter, with momentum shifting back and forth throughout the half.

As the pressure mounted, Hampshire found themselves on the wrong side of the referee too often, conceding a succession of penalties and eventually receiving a yellow card that left them defending with 14 men for the final ten minutes.

The visitors took full advantage of the extra man, crossing late and adding the conversion to narrow the score to 37-36 and set up a tense finale. With Oxfordshire pushing for one last opportunity, Hampshire’s forwards dug deep and wrestled back control of possession in the closing moments. From there, scrum-half Tom Fieldsend, captain and Player of the Match, kicked the ball into touch to spark celebrations and confirm Hampshire’s place at Allianz Twickenham.

The victory means Hampshire RFU Senior Men will now travel to Allianz Twickenham to face Leicestershire RFU in the Bill Beaumont County Championship Division 3 Final. Kick-off is at 11am, with further details to be announced later this week.

Hampshire had two new caps playing today; Max Wheller and Brad Caparo and also two players who received their 7 match caps: Tom Blewitt and Karter Whittock.

Hampshire RFU would like to thank Owtons Family Butchers for their continued sponsorship, WindandSurf Images for providing match-day photography, and all the supporters who made the journey to Havant RFC and helped create such a fantastic atmosphere.

 

Hampshire RFU Match Reports vs Surrey: Men Progress to Semi-Finals, Women Gain Valuable Division 1 Experience, U17 Boys Finish Unbeaten

Over the weekend, Hampshire RFU faced Surrey Rugby across three competitive county fixtures, played in challenging hot conditions.

Hampshire Men Secure Semi-Final Place

On Saturday 23 May at Havant RFC, Hampshire Men secured a thrilling 51–48 victory over Surrey to book their place in the semi-final of Division 3 in the Bill Beaumont County Championship.

Hampshire made a strong start and built an early lead, but Surrey responded well to keep the contest close throughout. Despite a number of yellow cards disrupting momentum at times, Hampshire managed the game effectively during the second half and held on for an impressive win.

The bench made a significant impact after the break, with Player of the Match CJ Fiern of Andover RFC contributing strongly in both attack and defence.

Half backs Tom Fieldsend (9) and Tom Meyer (10) also led from the front, controlling the tempo and territory with great kicking and decision making during key moments of the match.

The result means Hampshire will now face Oxfordshire Rugby Football Union in the semi-final on Saturday 30 May at Havant RFC, kick-off 3pm.

ALL SUPPORT IS WELCOME! 

Valuable Experience for Hampshire Women

On Sunday 24 May, Hampshire Women travelled to Esher Rugby to face Surrey Women in even hotter conditions.

Hampshire started positively and took an early lead, but Surrey’s direct midfield play, combined with a high penalty count against Hampshire, made it difficult for the visitors to maintain momentum, with Surrey winning the contest 35-12.

Natasha Bullock was named Player of the Match after leading from the front with a try and a committed defensive display.

There was also an impressive attacking performance from second row Sophie Slimm, who consistently caused problems for the Surrey defence with ball in hand.

Although the result did not go Hampshire’s way, the squad will take plenty from the experience. Competing in Division 1 has represented a significant step up for a young group of players, and the campaign has provided valuable learning opportunities to build on moving forward.

Hampshire Under 17 Boys Finish Campaign Unbeaten

Hampshire RFU Under 17 Boys hosted Surrey in the final match of their season programme at a sun-soaked Havant RFC.

As in their previous two fixtures, Hampshire started exceptionally well, putting into practice the patterns and structures developed over the past eight months.

Their power, pace and precision produced an outstanding opening 35 minutes, with Hampshire establishing a deserved 24–12 lead at half-time. Despite this, Surrey remained dangerous opponents and mounted an impressive comeback after the break.

Surrey scored 17 unanswered points during a high-quality second half to take a 29–24 lead with just five minutes remaining.

However, Hampshire showed great character and resilience in the closing stages. Despite the heat and the demands of a long season, the squad rediscovered their rhythm at the crucial moment, scoring two late tries to secure a dramatic 36–29 victory and complete an unbeaten campaign with three wins from three.

Beyond the result, the match was an excellent advert for Under 17 county rugby, with both sides playing competitively and in great spirit throughout.

Hampshire Under 17 Boys Scorers

Tries: Rhys B, Jack M, Matt P, Tom R, Reece M, Taeg N
Conversions: Louis C x2, Finlay W x1

Thank You

Thank you to Owtons Butchers for their continued support of our Senior rugby programme and to Windandsurf Images for the excellent photographs across the weekend, and to Romsey RFC and Portsmouth RFC for the use of their minibuses.

Finally, thank you to all the supporters who travelled and backed both squads throughout the weekend.

Match Report – U17 Boys vs Sussex

Hampshire RFU U17 vs Sussex

On Sunday 17th May, Hampshire U17 travelled to Horsham to face Sussex U17 in perfect conditions for a fast-flowing game.

From the kick-off, Hampshire dominated possession and territory, but outstanding Sussex defence prevented them from turning pressure into points. Moving into the second quarter, Hampshire regrouped and finally broke the deadlock with a superb flowing move that resulted in a try in the corner. A successful penalty shortly afterwards extended Hampshire’s lead to 8–0.

The second half proved to be a very different contest, with Sussex coming out with real intent. They scored two tries, converting one, to take a 17–8 lead and put Hampshire under pressure.

The response from Hampshire was immediate. A well-worked try brought them back into the game, narrowing the score to 17–15 with ten minutes remaining. Hampshire then took control, pinning Sussex back deep in their own half with sustained pressure and excellent territorial play.

With just five minutes left on the clock, Hampshire produced the decisive moment of the match. A sweeping move from one side of the pitch to the other ended with a superb try to reclaim the lead at 20–17 — a score they held onto until the final whistle to secure a hard-fought victory.

 

Hampshire RFU U17 vs Middlesex

First Match in Hampshire colours for our Under 17’s, what a match and what a performance…..

From the first kick off Hampshire’s defence effort was outstanding, our second rows put in a valiant display around the break downs and in open play covering a lot of ground. Ball in hand Hampshire’s back looked sharp and elusive.

Hampshire’s first game was a mixture of penalties against and a lot of open play running, once we found our feet at the breakdown the penalty count dropped and we were dominant and secure.

Scrummaging tends to be a core of Hampshire rugby and it was apparent from our first scrum that we had the upper hand, this was down to being tight and low and as a unit working together which a credit to all the players involved and the coaching that clearly has been taken on board.

The backs found space at every opportunity and attacked well, once around the outside Hampshire looked vastly dominant.

Hampshire’s backs played with confidence and conviction sometimes the finishing pass wasn’t there, however for Hampshire first game the attacking prowess was impressive and shows a fantastic showcase of ability and teamwork.

Luke Montague
U17 Team Manager

Growing Rugby in Primary Schools Across Portsmouth, Gosport and Havant

As schools continue to prioritise physical literacy, wellbeing, and character development, rugby offers a powerful vehicle to support all three. Across Portsmouth, Gosport and Havant, there is a significant opportunity for senior leadership teams to embed rugby as a meaningful and sustainable part of school life. This is not about producing elite athletes; it is about developing confident, resilient, and respectful young people.

Below are four key themes to support growth in schools.

1. Interschool Festivals and Competitions

Regular festivals and competitions provide purpose and excitement for pupils while strengthening school identity. A well structured calendar of inclusive, development focused events ensures that rugby is accessible to all, not just the most able.

These festivals emphasise participation, teamwork, and enjoyment, aligning with broader school priorities around inclusion and engagement. They also create natural milestones for pupils and teachers, building momentum and sustained interest throughout the year. Already this academic year, over 400 boys and girls representing 40 local schools have participated in rugby events primarily hosted at Havant, Portsmouth and Trojans rugby clubs.

2. Training Staff to Deliver Rugby in Schools

One of the most common barriers to rugby delivery in primary schools is staff confidence. Investing in staff development is therefore critical.

Primary level training opportunities at no cost are available in your school, delivered by your local school rugby manager luke.worthington@tkat.org. England Rugby also provides a no cost primary school coaching qualification, with courses regularly run in our area. Typically, these CPD sessions are one to three hours and equip staff with the skills and confidence to deliver safe, engaging sessions. Importantly, this creates long term sustainability, with rugby becoming embedded within the PE curriculum rather than dependent on external provision. For example, following a 60 minute session delivered by Luke Worthington, Front Lawn Primary Academy has established a lunchtime rugby club run by their external PE providers for Years 5 and 6.

3. Rugby values as a vehicle to enhance behaviours

For rugby to thrive, it must align with whole school priorities. The core values of rugby are summarised as TREDS (Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, Sportsmanship) and map directly onto the personal development and behaviour frameworks that schools are already striving to deliver.

By positioning rugby as a tool for character education, SLTs (senior leadership teams) can confidently support its inclusion. It becomes more than a sport; it becomes a vehicle for developing leadership, resilience, and positive behaviour across the school.

4. Collaboration with SGOs and Local Rugby Clubs

Sustainable provision is built on strong partnerships. School Games Organisers and local rugby clubs play a vital role in supporting schools with expertise, resources, and pathways.

Collaboration can unlock access to qualified coaches and delivery support, clear transition routes from school to community sport, shared facilities and joint events, and increased opportunities for pupils beyond the school environment. This joined up approach ensures continuity and strengthens the local sporting ecosystem.

Suggested Next Steps for Schools:

  • Review your current PE and sport offer to identify where rugby can complement existing provision.
  • Engage with your local SGO to explore upcoming festivals, competitions, and training opportunities.
  • Identify school staff champions who can lead rugby within schools and support their development.
  • Connect with local rugby clubs to establish partnerships and enrichment opportunities.
  • Pilot a school rugby festival trip to build initial momentum and gather pupil voice.

Rugby has the potential to make a lasting impact on pupils, not just physically but socially and emotionally. With the right structures and partnerships in place, schools across Portsmouth, Gosport and Havant can create inclusive, values driven rugby experiences that benefit every child.

 

Hampshire U18 Semi-Finals – Sunday 12 April

🌹 Hampshire U18 Semi-Finals – Sunday 12 April

The Hampshire U18 semi-finals are set.

After a long league campaign and tight knockout rounds, the competition now moves into the final four across Cup, Plate, Bowl, and Shield. Every game on Sunday, 12th April carries real weight, with places in Finals Day on the line.

Cup Semi-Finals
Winchester Academy 1st XV vs Havant Academy
Trojans Eagles vs Ellingham & Ringwood U18M

Plate Semi-Finals
Petersfield Colts vs Tadley Colts
Vectis Colts vs New Milton Colts

Bowl Semi-Finals
Winchester Academy 2nd XV vs Basingstoke Colts
Trojans Falcons vs Farnborough Colts

Shield Semi-Finals
Havant Academy 2XV vs Romsey U18M
Andover Colts vs Fawley Colts

One game from Finals Day on 26th April 26.

Good luck to all teams.

 

Hampshire Hosts Red Roses Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour

Hampshire RFU was proud to support the recent visit of the Community Rugby Trophy Tour – the Red Roses Rugby World Cup trophy, which visited a number of clubs and events across the county this last week.

The tour provided a special opportunity to engage players, clubs and schools, while highlighting the continued development of the women and girls’ game in Hampshire.

The trophy’s first stop was at Alton RFC, where it featured at the U11 County Festival. The event welcomed 240 girls and boys, offering young players the chance to take part in a brilliant day of rugby.

It then moved to Trojans FC, which hosted the U7, U8 and U9 County Festival, which saw more than 700 children taking part. The visit also coincided with the final women’s fixture of the season between Trojans Women and Bath Ladies, providing a strong example of the senior women’s game in action.

At Havant RFC, the focus was on schools rugby, with over 130 girls from local primary and secondary schools participating in a T1 festival. The event reflected the increasing levels of engagement in the girls’ game at school level, supported by the work of the Schools Rugby Manager.

The tour concluded at Ellingham & Ringwood RFC, where an open girls’ session was delivered, supporting both new and existing players to play and enjoy rugby together.

Across all venues, the visit of the trophy was warmly welcomed and provided a wonderful opportunity to promote the game and recognise the progress being made locally.

Hampshire RFU has seen continued growth in participation this season, with a 3% increase in the women’s game and an 18% increase in girls’ rugby. This equates to over 200 new women and girls playing the game across the county!

The trophy tour was a fitting way to acknowledge this progress and to reinforce the county’s ongoing commitment to developing rugby at all levels across Hampshire.

Hampshire U18 Leagues Complete for 25/26 Season

Hampshire U18 Leagues 25/26 – Season Complete

The Hampshire U18 leagues for the 25/26 season are now complete, marking the end of the first year under the new competition structure.

This format brought together 24 clubs from across the county, with the aim of creating balanced leagues, meaningful competition, and regular rugby for all sides. Across the divisions, that has delivered. Matches remained competitive throughout, with league positions and outcomes still in play right up to the final round.

There has been clear progression across squads, strong commitment from players and management teams, and a consistent effort from clubs to get fixtures played despite the usual challenges around availability and bad weather.

Final League Standings

  • Division 1 Winners: Winchester Academy 1st XV
  • Division 1 Runners-Up: Trojan Eagles
  • Division 2 Winners: Portsmouth Colts
  • Division 2 Runners-Up: Overton Colts
  • Division 3 Winners: Petersfield Colts
  • Division 3 Runners-Up: Vectis Colts
  • Division 4 Winners: Tottonians Colts
  • Division 4 Runners-Up: Winchester Academy 2nd XV

Congratulations to all league winners and runners-up, and to every club involved in making the season work.

Attention now turns to the knockout competitions. Teams will move into the Cup, Plate, Bowl, and Shield, with quarter-finals scheduled for Sunday 22 March 2026.

A strong league phase sets up what should be a competitive, well-contested knockout stage to close out the season, with all finals held at Winchester on the 26th of April.

Ian ‘H’ Wells
Hampshire Under 18 League Organiser 25/26 season

 

Hampshire Girls U16 PDG Shine in Dual Victory Away at Essex

Hampshire’s Girls U16 England PDG delivered an impressive performance on the road this weekend as the county’s teams travelled to face Essex in their third playing opportunity of the programme.

Both Hampshire sides secured victories, but the focus of the day extended beyond the results. Players were encouraged to put their recent training into practice, showing creativity, confidence and a willingness to try new skills in a match environment. The progress made by both squads reflected the hard work and commitment shown during recent coaching blocks.

In a memorable end to the day, Essex provided a special surprise for the players by bringing out the Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy, giving the girls a rare opportunity to take photos with one of the sport’s most iconic prizes.

The squad now moves into coaching block five this week as preparations continue for the final fixture of the programme against Gloucester in April.

Hampshire RFU would like to thank the volunteers and parents whose support makes these opportunities possible, along with programme sponsors Bridge Beauty and Sports Physio for their continued backing of the girls’ development group.

Most importantly, congratulations to the players for their enthusiasm, effort and commitment throughout the day.

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