RUGBY UNION - Worcester youngsters take part in Defender Rising Stars Cup - The Worcester Observer
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RUGBY UNION - Worcester youngsters take part in Defender Rising Stars Cup

Aaron Sutcliffe 5th Mar, 2026 Updated: 10th Mar, 2026   0

YOUNGSTERS from Worcester RFC took part in the Defender Rising Stars Cup hosted by Gloucester Rugby.

The club’s under-11 and under-12 players took to the pitch at the home of Cheltenham Tigers.

Some 23 clubs took part in the competition with the focus on development and participation rather than match results.

Teams were judged on rugby’s core values – teamwork, respect, enjoyment and discipline.

The annual under-11 and under-12s festival marks one of a series of national events hosted by PREM Rugby.

Worcester under-12 player, Joseph Hunt said: “I like all the running because it just gets me warmed up and I like the breeze in my face.




“I got to play lots of rugby with my friends. I love Sunday’s. I just can’t wait for Sunday’s during the week because I know I’m seeing all my mates and I’m playing rugby, which I love.

“It’s also nice to play some different teams and have some new challenges.”


Worcester coach, Nick Ace added: “It’s a great event with a high standard of rugby.

“All the games have been played in good spirits and it’s well organised.

“We’ve had a great day and have enjoyed ourselves which is what it’s all about.”

Gloucester player, Cam Jordan said: “What a great day of rugby at the Gloucester Defender Rising Stars Cup.

“It was impressive to see so many young players display impressive skill and passion for the game, working together as team and showing respect for the officials and the competition.

“Despite being at the start of their rugby journeys to see so many kids displaying the values of our game will only benefit the future of our sport.

“Competitions such as this help young players grow and develop further into the next generation of players.”

Since the first Defender Rising Stars Festival in 2008, more than 125,000 children have taken part, with some going on to play professionally for PREM Rugby clubs.