8 Schools Compete at the Girls’ Bury Schools Tag Rugby League Festival

Date published: 21 October 2011

Nine teams from eight different High Schools from across Bury competed in the Girls’ Tag Rugby League Tournament at Castlebrook High School on the 17th October.

Girls’ High School teams from Broad Oak, Tottington, Philips, Woodhey, Elton, Prestwich, St Gabriels and two teams from the hosts Castlebrook took to the field despite the adverse weather conditions.

The teams were split into two round robin groups with the winner of each group to play in the final. The tournament was organised by Bolton, Bury and Rochdale Rugby League Development group. Players from local amateur Rugby League club, Bury Broncos, refereed the matches and Swinton Lions provided their support and the runners up and winners trophies.

The round robin fixtures were played in high spirits by the girls despite the wind and rain, with some excellent skills on show.

Jenny Welsby, Bury Community Rugby League Coach, commented “I’ve been coaching the girls in school since the beginning of term and to see so many schools turn out for the tournament is fantastic for Rugby League in Bury. I’m really proud of the girls today there has been a high standard of tag Rugby League on show and all the girls have come a really long way in five weeks.”

Philips High School and Tottington High School booked their places in the final after finishing top of their respective round robin groups. The final was a closely fought contest with both teams raising their game in a bid to be crowned champions.

With some excellent defence on show the final looked like it was heading for extra time up until the 9th minute when Philips raced away for an excellent long range try. Tottington kept their heads up and threw everything they had at Philips in the final minute but couldn’t quite break down the resolute Philips defence to get over the line. The final whistle blew and Philips were crowned champions.

All of the girls who took part received certificates for their efforts. The next Bury Girls tag Rugby League tournament is planned for before Christmas. In addition to this the schools are being offered full contact Rugby League coaching to give the girls the opportunity to compete in the Champions Schools Rugby League tournament against teams from all over the country.

Rochdale Cobras are currently recruiting girls for their U14’s and U16’s teams. Training is at Firgrove Playing Fields, Milnrow, Rochdale, Tuesdays at 5.45pm. Contact Danny Pyke, Rochdale Community Rugby League Coach, for more details; 07807412449.