The 10th annual Virginia Girls Blitz kicked off at Peacelink Park in Clones, with over 200 local secondary school girls taking to the pitch. Dun an Ri Kingscourt, Bailieborough Community School, Virginia College, St Clare’s, and St Oliver's all sent teams to compete in both the Junior and Senior competitions.
Despite challenging weather conditions, the day was filled with exceptional displays of skill from all the players.
Bailieborough Community School emerged victorious in a nail-biting Senior Final against Virginia College.
The Junior competition was equally thrilling, with St Clare’s and Bailieborough battling their way through two epic semi-finals before meeting in the final. In a repeat of past victories, St Clare’s secured the Junior Cup for the third time.
A big thank you goes out to the Virginia RFC referees Schalk Van Lil, Ciaran Smith, and Conor Walker, who volunteered their time to ensure a smooth competition. Special recognition goes to Lucy Thompson from Ulster Rugby as well, who not only came to witness the local talent but also lent a hand with the officiating.
As always, the Virginia Girls Blitz provided a day filled with fierce competition, camaraderie, and fun, all within the excellent facilities of Peacelink Park.
CCRO, Jon Watt said,
"This is our tenth annual Virginia RFC Secondary School Girls Blitz. Schools in the Virginia RFC catchment area have always been very supportive of this event as it provides another sporting option for girls in a predominantly GAA playing county.
The event gives the opportunity for girls to try the basic form of the game and give 'contact' a try too if they feel comfortable to do so after coaching from Virginia RFC and Ulster coaches on the day.
Information is then provided to the teachers and girls regarding the Clubs 'Give It a Try' programme that runs through the summer months, the hope being that girls who enter this programme and enjoy the experience will join the Virginia RFC Girls section the following season.
Virginia RFC is one of only a handful of clubs in Ulster that field female teams at U12, U14, U16, U18 and Senior levels. This event and the work with girls at minis level is the feeder for these teams."
