Andie Parry (Avon’s schools coaching and liaison officer) has been carrying out a series of voluntary coaching sessions in each of these schools to prepare for the festival and said “Above all this was a day for the children who were an absolute credit to their schools. For me, the real pleasure was to see them playing with smiles on their faces as well as showing determination and considerable skill. They displayed the important role of teamwork in their play, such an important lesson for life.”

The event was played on a round-robin basis but with the emphasis on enjoyment, rather than seeking winners. Assisting by refereeing the matches were a group of junior leaders provided by St Marks School who were rewarded for the excellent efforts with bacon butties from the Avon clubhouse during the lunch break.

In keeping with the ethos of the festival, the only specific award was the Avon RFC Sporting Trophy. This was presented to the Bathford School Badgers team who organised themselves so well on the pitch, used the space intelligently and were very skilful but most importantly showed great teamwork. (Pictured with the trophy are the Badgers team with some of the referees and Andie Parry and Paul Kirby from Avon RFC)

Summing up the positive feedback from the festival, Jenny Enstone from Batheaston School said afterwards “Today was a roaring success! What a superbly organised event it was and how much fun the children had. In my nineteen years of teaching, I have never known of any volunteer who has delivered coaching and organised a festival so well for so many lucky primary school children. Festivals like today make special memories and truly inspire children to stay active and healthy. Thank you so much for giving up your time and energy. We look forward to working with you again soon.”

Avon’s Mini section practise every Sunday morning at their Hicks Field ground off the London Road at Batheaston from 10am to 11:15am. Any new children who would like to take part will be made most welcome at this local family community club. Please contact Kane Book on 07817 220418 for further details or just come along to join in on a Sunday morning.