SPIRITS were high for Aireborough RUFC as six of their junior teams returned home from Baildon Festival with a sack full of trophies, securing wins in all but one of the days matches.

The boys, ranging from ages six to 12, travelled a few miles down the road to Baildon RUFC for their first game of the season, having had only four weeks of training to learn some challenging techniques.

Nevertheless, each team delivered an exceptional performance demonstrating good teamwork, defence and attacking skills.

Despite some strong opposing teams lined up from Skipton, Keighley, Bingley, Bradford and the home town Baildon, the boys showed no fear throughout, resulting in what each coach described as “a positive and encouraging start to the season”.

Coaching coordinator and vice chairman Kris Brook said: “The boys were absolutely outstanding out there today and there are some very proud coaches returning home. We played a variety of experienced and new players in this festival, but we had no doubt that they would support each other and overcome any obstacles put their way.”

Under-12s coach Matt Barratt added: “My team had a great start, beating a combined Keighley and Bradford side 5-4, and going on to secure a 10-2 win against Bradford and Bingley. Whilst the whole team played exceptionally well, Fred Davies, Sam Shephard and Harry Day dominated the game with their hat-tricks.”

Other players to receive recognition for their above expectation performances were under-9s Archie Crozier and Cameron Rookledge, as well as under-8s player Alfie who was crowned player of the day.

To find out more about the opportunities for juniors at Aireborough RUFC, visit aireboroughrugby.com or contact Gemma Birbeck at birbeck6@googlemail.com.