Caledonia Youth Festival hailed a success

The Caledonia Youth Cup Finals Day, which was the largest youth rugby events in the country this year, involved a collaboration between Scottish Rugby, Perth and Kinross Council and the local rugby club.

This was the first occasion the tournament’s girls’ and boy’s finals were hosted at the same venue, on the same day.

Additional playing, changing and transport facilities were provided to accommodate over 500 players, as well as the 2,000 plus spectators throughout the day.

One of the spectators was the current Provost of Perth, Dennis Melloy, who was keen to catch some of the action and hand out several trophies.

He said,” It was a tremendous occasion and I am delighted to be present to witness the energy shown by all our young players today.

“They do their coaches and parents a great credit and I am delighted that the partnership between Scottish Rugby, Perth & Kinross Council and the local rugby club has meant that we are able to showcase such a fantastic finals day here in the Fair Maids city.”

There were a number of thrilling encounters, with several games won in the final seconds, but what was clearly evident was the passion for youth rugby in the Caledonia region.

Jenny Dunnett, Caithness Women’s and Girls Convener added, “We had an absolutely fantastic day and it was a real reward for all the hard work the teams have put in to reach these cup finals.”

Caithness brought two girls teams down, the U15s and U18s, playing Stirling in their two respective finals. The U15s lost out 31-64, but the U18s recorded a 41-24 win over their opponents.

Dunnett added, “The U15s only had 11 players at the start of the season, but now we have over 18 to call on. To score 4 tries against Stirling was a fantastic achievement.

“The U18s have played Stirling before but never dreamed of beating them.”

“The bus back was magical, so thanks to the organisers and everyone who helped to make the day such a success.”

Caledonia Regional Director, Steve Turnbull, added at the conclusion of the event, “We had over 500 players from 28 teams playing in 14 matches and it was so pleasing to see so much enthusiasm, commitment and sportsmanship from the players, who all contributed to making it a great rugby spectacle.

“As always, the coaches, parents and volunteers were instrumental in making the event a success and it was good to see so many supporters at the Inch cheering on their teams.

“I would like to thank Perthshire Rugby Club and Perth and Kinross Council for supporting the event and hosting the day.”