Hove Women's Walking Rugby Make a Memorable Debut at the Sussex 7s Festival

Hove Women's Walking Rugby Make a Memorable Debut at the Sussex 7s Festival

Saturday 11 July saw Hove Women's Walking Rugby play their very first matches as they made their debut at the Sussex 7s Festival at Haywards Heath Rugby Club.

After receiving a last minute invitation to the festival a few days earlier, the team headed off with just five players available. With no substitutes and borrowing a few players, they played three games, finishing with one draw and two defeats. The results however, were far less important than the experience gained and the way the team rose to every challenge thrown at them.

And there were plenty of challenges!

What everyone believed would be a women's tournament turned out to be a mixed competition, meaning our newly formed side suddenly found themselves playing against both men and women. With no time for a warm-up in the heat and coach Manj unexpectedly having to pull on a Hove shirt to make up the numbers, it really was a case of being thrown in at the deep end.

Despite all of that, the team were outstanding. There were lots of compliments from people watching on the sidelines, many commenting on how well Hove were playing, especially considering that several of the players had only been playing walking rugby for five weeks.

Sarah grew in confidence with every game. It was fantastic to watch her develop throughout the morning, becoming more composed in possession and making an increasing impact with each match.

Rekha was unlucky not to be awarded what the Hove camp still insists was a perfectly good try! She was a real attacking threat whenever she got the ball in hand, carrying strongly and asking plenty of questions of the opposition.

Shaz's work rate was exceptional all morning. She never stopped working for the team and, like Sarah, has grown hugely in confidence since joining the sessions. Her progress was clear for everyone to see.

Jo, returning to Hove colours after playing contact rugby for the club back in the 1990s, looked as though she'd never been away. Her experience showed with some excellent defensive work, calm decision-making and great support for her teammates throughout.

Overall, it was a fantastic morning and an excellent first outing for Hove Women's Walking Rugby. The results may not have gone our way but the team showed determination, resilience, teamwork and no shortage of Hove spirit. Most importantly, everyone came away smiling, having gained valuable experience and plenty of confidence for the future.

A special thank you goes to Sarah Khan, Sussex Walking Rugby Manager, for making adjustments to accommodate our diverse all women's team once it became clear the festival was a mixed competition. Her support and flexibility ensured the day was a positive experience for everyone involved.

This was only the beginning for Hove Women's Walking Rugby and judging by Saturday's performance, there are exciting times ahead.