Virginia ladies on form in UK event

On Saturday April 25 the Virginia under 18 ladies rugby team travelled to England to play against Welbeck College, a military finishing school outside Leicester. Welbeck had travelled to Ireland to tour Ulster in March and after a close 10-5 victory to the home side, Virginia were eager to win again. Hopes were high for the local side who have been tremendously successful in the past, coached by Jason Fowley. After setting out at four o"clock in the morning, there was little time to settle down for the 3pm kick-off against Welbeck"s first 15. Playing on a pitch a lot bigger and flatter than Virginia were used to, the girls showed incredible skill and strength to beat Welbeck in a thrilling game. With a comfortable victory under their belts, Virginia were optimistic for the second day of rugby, a sevens tournament against some local school teams. On Sunday the team was split into two and both faced three other teams in their pool, where the first and second place from each pool would play semi-finals and finals to win out the entire tournament. Virginia started to feel the pressure as they had never played sevens rugby before: full pitch, seven players and seven and a half minutes aside. The A team, after some extremely tight games and showing immense courage were unsuccessful in reaching a semi-final. The B team however showing some brilliant plays and great pace found themselves in the semi-final after winning all three of their pool games. Meeting Giggleswick in the semi, Virginia B once again found themselves coming out on top with an impressive victory. They then met Welbeck A in the final. After four games the girls were pretty tired but they managed to play a storming last game annihilating the opposition with a comprehensive victory once again not giving away a try. The team showed marvellous talent and consistency in not conceding a try all day. Virginia were awarded with a trophy sponsored by the RAF and presented by an RAF pilot. The girls returned to Ireland on Monday 27th with some new silverware for the clubhouse. However the rugby season was not over yet for four Virginia players, who were selected to play for the Ulster development squad later in May; Erin Byrne, Lauren Campbell, Alannah Fowley and Shaunagh Keogan. Unfortunately Alannah Fowley could not play due to illness, but the other three played extremely well, helping to secure the victory for Ulster versus Donegal County. The players were rewarded for their achievement with a surprise visit from Ulster and Ireland attacker Isaac Boss. On behalf of the team, we would like to thank Jason Fowley our coach for getting us so far this year in rugby and also Virginia Rugby Club for their continued support. We would also like to thank Deirdre, Jackie and Ken who put up with us on the trip to England and the players who all played superbly throughout the season and especially on their tour to England.