Former England rugby World Cup winner, Gill Burns, was thoroughly impressed after witnessing Chester Devas’ triumph over Eccles at the Love Rugby festival. The event, which marked a thrilling celebration of women and girls’ rugby, was a part of England Rugby’s Play Together Stay Together scheme. The day began with an under 8s match and culminated in a spectacular showcase that highlighted outstanding talent.
Chester emerged victorious with an impressive 56-5 win over Eccles, displaying a remarkable level of skill and expertise on the field. The event was met with great enthusiasm and appreciation by Burns, who expressed her delight at the opportunity to witness such a beautiful display of talent and sportsmanship.
In a heartwarming scene, both teams came together for a photo under the posts, signifying the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie that embodies the sport of rugby. Despite the outcome, even the losing team displayed smiles and a positive attitude, illustrating the true essence of sportsmanship and resilience.
Burns commended the event, highlighting the significance of the occasion for all those involved, from the young children who participated in the morning matches to the various age groups. She stressed the value of documenting such moments through footage, allowing the players to share their experiences with friends and family, thereby inspiring and promoting the growth of women’s rugby.
The standout performance of the day came from Chester’s winger, Ella Wylie, who delivered an exceptional display, scoring four tries and attracting a significant amount of support from her family. Her pride and joy were evident as she expressed her satisfaction with the team’s performance and her personal contributions. Burns was equally pleased with the level of interest and enthusiasm generated by the event, acknowledging the efforts made to promote and develop the women’s game over the years.
Having played an integral role in advocating for women’s rugby, Burns emphasized the importance of growing and sharing the sport. Her efforts to promote women’s rugby were recognized when she was invited by the RFU to address the Red Roses before their Grand Slam clash with France at Twickenham. The honorable privilege of witnessing the women’s game thrive and flourish was a testament to the tireless dedication and passion invested in the sport.
The success of the Love Rugby festival and the Play Together Stay Together campaign serves as a catalyst for encouraging more people to actively engage in the sport. The significant impact of such events in fostering community involvement and promoting the values of teamwork and sportsmanship is a testament to the enduring spirit of rugby.
In conclusion, the Love Rugby festival not only showcased the remarkable talent and passion for the sport but also demonstrated the unifying power of rugby in bringing communities together. The continued growth and development of women’s rugby is essential, and events such as these play a pivotal role in inspiring the next generation of players and fostering a shared love for the game.
“Play Together Stay Together” is an initiative by England Rugby to promote and facilitate active participation in rugby. For those seeking to reignite their love for the sport, finding a local rugby club can be the first step towards experiencing the joy and excitement of rugby once again.