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The next rugby generation has its day at Coolmine

If Coolmine rugby club understandably places a lot of emphasis on the performances of its adult teams it cannot be accused of neglecting the next generation of players. The last Sunday in February saw the club host its second mini-rugby blitz at Ashbrook for under 7, 8 & 9 grades, which was sponsored by the Ability Group. Visiting teams came to Coolmine from Old Belvedere, De la Salle Palmerstown, Navan, Greystones and Barnhall.

In total over 500 players enjoyed a fantastic day of rugby and family fun. Pool games were split between Tigers and Lions in each age grade with the top two teams from each pool qualifying for plate and cup finals.

The under-7s competition showed very competitive displays from the youngest participants on the day. With keenly contested games in both pools from the outset, the Navan Tigers edged out Old Belvedere Lions to meet Greystones Lions in the final. A compelling finale eventually saw Greystones raise the under 7’s trophy. The local Coolmine boys played very well in their first ever blitz but unfortunately the score lines didn’t reflect the determination and teamwork shown by the Coolmine teams.

In the under-8s competition, the Lions topped their group with four comprehensive wins and a single draw against Old Belvedere. The Tigers were unlucky not to emerge from their group - both DLSP and Coolmine ended on exact same points and the last qualifying place was decided by a pool play-off match. The drama level increased with scores remaining equal at full-time and was finally settled by DLSP progressing on a “Golden Try” score. Navan were awarded the plate after DLSP retired from the competition. The final was a very exciting end to the under-8s competition, with Coolmine emerging victorious over a very strong and well marshalled Old Belvedere side.

Two well-contested under-9s pool groups saw Old Belvedere and Coolmine emerging from the Tiger pool with Navan and Greystones coming through the Lions pool. The plate final ended with Navan edging ahead of Greystones to take the honours. The cup competition pitted Coolmine against Old Belvedere in a thrilling finale to the day with Old Belvedere coming through to take the cup.

The enthusiasm of all the participating players and the quality of the rugby on display ensured that all involved had a truly enjoyable day. Speaking at the presentation of prizes, mini’s co-ordinator, John Gethin, made special mention of all the Coolmine parents and volunteers who ensured the day was a success and who also prepared and served a huge amount of sandwiches, snacks and hot food for all the visitors to Ashbrook.

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