The morning session saw every available playing space utilised by the U6 to U9 teams playing in 12 minute games, with each team having around five competitive games. Even the Rascals (U5) were able to join in with a few fun games. The Players all enjoyed a lunch including an Easter treat prepared by the U10 Tour Fundraising Committee, who also ran a BBQ throughout the day.
There was excitement when former Ballymena mini rugby player Luke Marshall came along with Ulster Rugby team mates Ian Humphreys and Dave Ryan. Tickets in the Hughes Insurance Family Stand for the Ulster v Leinster game were provided by the event’s main sponsor as part of a raffle.
The afternoon session saw the turn of the U10 to U12 teams with a full schedule of 14 minute matches until tea time.
Roger Alexander, Convenor of the Mini Section at Ballymena Rugby Club this year, expressed his gratitude for those supporting the event: “We are particularly thankful to all the teams at the club and business organisations getting involved in supporting this great community event in the town. We are grateful to have sponsors making the whole event possible, such as Hughes Insurance, AIB, McLaughlin & Harvey, McKillop’s Spar, Piperhill, Corry's, Mid Antrim Signs, IFS, Calor Gas, Service Point, Oranga and all the catering organisations who supported the P6 fundraising team.
“With over 280 players from ages 5 to 12 years, we are privileged to have one of the largest Mini Rugby Sections in Ulster and our festival is a celebration of rugby. Other clubs always express how much they enjoy coming to Eaton Park for the quality of our rugby and the hospitality and spirit our club have towards them.”
After Easter, the players are looking home matches and has a schedule of festivals in Coleraine, Ballyclare, Lisburn and Dublin. The section has also arranged trips for parents and players to attend the Ulster v Leinster match at Kingspan Stadium on 24th April and the Rugby World Cup in London later this year.