The annual primary schools ‘Six Nations’ tournament, run jointly by Upton School and Thanet Passport, featured 30 school teams playing in rugby fixtures across four hours.
Sides were competing for six trophies, with the order based on the finishing positions of the international Six Nations rugby recently and an excellent standard of rugby was on show throughout.
After the initial stages, teams were grouped with those of similar ability to ensure that every school had a real opportunity to take home one of the trophies.
After winning their initial group, Upton 1 moved into the highest trophy category – the Wales Cup – with St Joseph’s, Garlinge, St Peter’s and St Nicholas. Upton 2 moved into the second trophy – the England Cup. Four victories for Upton 1 meant they were undefeated across the day and retained the Wales trophy, while Upton 2 shared the England Trophy with Chilton Primary School from Ramsgate.
Holy Trinity in Ramsgate scooped the Ireland Cup and the France Cup, Garlinge took the Scotland Cup and Chilton took the Italy Cup.
Deputy Head Dave Walker trains the Upton rugby team with Year 5 teacher Ross Kettle. He said: “It was a superb event which was held at Upton’s sports fields. It was terrific to get 300 boys and girls involved in rugby at the first stages. Hopefully they will have enjoyed the experience and carry on playing.
“Congratulations go to all the players involved for an outstanding tournament.
“I would like to particularly thank Upton’s super PTFA which worked hard to provide hot and cold refreshments throughout the tournament, Margate Ambulance Corps for its constant support, and all teachers and staff who give up their weekends as volunteers so that children can have great days like these.”
The Thanet Primary Association for School Sport, or ‘Thanet Passport’ as it is more popularly known, helps organise and supports all primary school sports.
The final placings were:
Wales Cup – Upton 1
England Cup – Upton 2 & Chilton 2 (shared)
Ireland Cup – Holy Trinity Ramsgate 1
France Cup – Holy Trinity Ramsgate 2
Scotland Cup – Garlinge 2
Italy Cup (Fair Play) – Chilton