Community festival a success

Wigan Warriors Community foundation recently supported Community Club ambassadors Shevington sharks in hosting a 9-a-side participation festival for u13s.

The event was a huge success with over 160 local junior talent representing their Community Clubs in a new fast and exciting concept of 9-a-side rugby.  

The festival was held at John Rigby college where 16 teams competed against each other in an exciting morning of junior rugby. All the games were professionally refereed by Wigan society referees Pete Meadows, Keiron Marno, Simon Rickard and Luke Flavell.  

The festival was heavily supported by families and friends that created a positive rugby atmosphere during the event.  

Aston Bailey, of St Jude’s Golds u13s said: “I really enjoyed being in a tournament situation again and playing for my team with all my teammates. The games were fast paced and lots of involvement in the game. I’m looking forward to the season ahead playing with my mates who I’ve played with since being 6-year-old, I’ve made friends for life through playing rugby.”

Lee Doran, Coach at Shevington sharks u13s reds also said: “As a Community Club and coaching team at Shevington sharks u13’s reds, we wanted to bring together all the Clubs within the Wigan area to celebrate the local talent we have within the town, challenge them in transitions from defence to attack adding different dynamics to their usual game rules.

“We placed a huge focus on enjoyment & fun. All of this wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for the Wigan referee’s society for officiating on the day and the support of Wigan Warriors Community Foundation.”

Speaking on behalf of the Wigan Warriors Community Foundation, Danny Fullerton added: “This event is the first of many throughout the 2022 year and what a way to start with some exceptional skill in the fast-entertaining games. Wigan Warriors community foundation team would like to offer their support to all community clubs of all ages that would like to host a rugby festival at their facilities, we can support with planning and organising of the event.  

“This will enhance playing opportunities at all Community Clubs throughout the year and a great opportunity so clubs can generate some income.”

If your community club would like the opportunity to host a rugby festival supported by Wigan Warriors, please contact d.fullerton@wiganwarriors.com for some more information.