Team Hamstel Tried, Tried and Tried Again

 Excitement had been building for weeks as Team Hamstel trained with determination, enthusiasm and tremendous team spirit in preparation for the Southend KS1 Tag Rugby Tournament at Southend Rugby Club. When the much anticipated day finally arrived, the team were more than ready to rise to the challenge.

Nine talented teams entered the competition and were split into two groups for the opening round. Team Hamstel wasted no time in making a spectacular start. Their first match against St Helens showcased outstanding teamwork and dazzling attacking play. In an incredible opening performance, Hamstel stormed to a 7–1 victory. Floyd, Hermione and Luke (with an impressive hat-trick) crossed the line, while Archie added two superb tries with his quick feet and brilliant movement.

Next up was Thorpe Hall, and this proved to be a much tighter and more competitive contest. However, Hamstel remained focused, composed and determined. Excellent communication and strong defensive tagging helped secure a well-earned 4–2 win. Romeo celebrated his first try of the day, while Hermione, Luke and Archie continued to add to their growing tallies.

With confidence soaring, Hamstel faced Fairways knowing that a win would guarantee a coveted semi-final place. The team certainly did not disappoint. Relentless pressure and some of the sharpest tagging of the tournament forced crucial mistakes from Fairways. Hannah, Summer and Dylan (with two fantastic tries) scored their first of the competition, and Archie added another, sealing a superb 5–2 victory and confirming Hamstel’s place in the semi-finals.

The final group match was against St George’s and proved to be one of the most thrilling games of the day. Ruby was sensational, scoring her first try of the tournament and Hamstel’s opener. Romeo added another, while Dylan powered over for two more. In a nail-biting finish, the match ended in a dramatic 5–5 draw. Having finished top of their group, Team Hamstel eagerly awaited news of their semi-final opponents.

The semi-final saw Hamstel face a strong Chalkwell side. It was an intensely competitive and fiercely contested match, with both teams displaying tremendous skill and resilience. Archie’s two magnificent tries and Romeo’s decisive score edged Hamstel to a narrow but deserved 3–2 victory, sending them through to the grand final.

The final against West Leigh was the perfect showcase of KS1 rugby at its very best. Hamstel made a flying start, securing five rapid tags to regain possession and quickly take the lead. With Hermione scoring and Archie adding two brilliant tries, Hamstel led 3–2 going into the second half. However, under mounting pressure, a few unfortunate mistakes allowed West Leigh to score two quick tries. When the final whistle blew, West Leigh had clinched a slender 4–3 win in what was an exceptionally close and exciting match.

Although narrowly missing out on gold, Team Hamstel proudly collected their well-deserved silver medals to rapturous cheers and enthusiastic applause. Their journey to the final was built on determination, courage, teamwork and outstanding sportsmanship. Every single player played a vital role in the team’s remarkable success.

A huge thank you goes to all the parents and supporters whose encouragement made the day even more special.

 Congratulations to Ellis, Alfie, Dylan, Summer, Hannah, Hermione, Romeo, Archie, Luke, Floyd and Ruby on an absolutely fantastic tournament. Team Hamstel should be incredibly proud of their tremendous achievement!