Rugby Riley Reports: Yate U10s – Two Games, One Incredible Sunday

Wow. Just… wow. I’m still trying to pick my jaw up off the floor after watching the Yate Under 10s play two matches on Sunday, because what I saw genuinely blew me away. The energy, the skill level, the teamwork — this was rugby played with confidence, joy and real understanding of the game. What a way to finish 2025. The future? Seriously bright.

First things first, a huge thank you to Whitehall for organising the fixture and for being such a brilliant rugby club. They played some outstanding rugby themselves, and honestly, both sets of kids put on displays that would give some seniors a proper run for their money. Add to that Frampton Cotterell, who were part of this triangular fixture and very kindly lent us players due to injuries and holidays; that right there is the true spirit of rugby. Massive respect and thanks.

Standout Moments

If I had to pick one thing (which is hard), it was the link-up play. The players were constantly scanning for space, moving defenders, and making the pass at exactly the right time. It wasn’t one-off moments, it was repeated, smart rugby. Ball movement like that at this age is something special.

Energy Levels: OFF THE SCALE

Being the last games of the year, you could feel it — the kids were absolutely buzzing. From the first whistle to the last, it was high tempo, high smiles, and relentless effort. No one wanted the day to end.

Individual Shout-Outs (Though This Was a Team Performance)

• Logan was back and throwing himself into big tackles like he’d never been away fearless and committed. Also his first try for the club...watching him and his dad embrace on the side line was heart warming....even moved this Rugby report...I wasn't crying that was a fly in my eye!!!!

  
  

• Niamh continues to grow week by week. With the introduction of the scrum, her confidence has soared, and this week she slotted into the 9 shirt like it was made for her calm distribution, great decision-making, and setting up some cracking team tries.

  
  

Skills on Show

Tackling, breakdown work, passing accuracy, support lines — honestly, it was breath taking stuff. Players were rarely isolated; support was everywhere. One-player efforts were rare because everyone was there, working together.

Learning & Looking Ahead

As good as it was, the focus now turns back to Wednesday night development sessions, where the squad will keep sharpening their rucking and tackling. If this group keeps progressing at this rate, watch this space.

The Opposition

Whitehall brought strong line speed and real intensity in defence, which properly tested Yate’s ball protection and decision-making, exactly what you want in a great fixture. Competitive, respectful, and played in the right spirit.

Special mention too to Marcus (Whitehall coach) and Ollie (Yate player), absolutely loving the rugby vibes, with laughter and encouragement up and down the pitch between you two...This is GRASS ROOTS RUGBY.

That joy is infectious, and it showed in how the kids played. Both you and Pete should be proud of your team - not sure on the swan dives thou!!!

Side line Support

As always, the support from the side lines was exceptional loud, positive, and constant. It makes such a difference, and the players felt it.

Three Words to Sum It All Up

Fun. Focus. Passion.

From one stunned reporter to everyone involved, players, coaches, parents, and clubs. THANK YOU. That was a joy to watch, and I already can’t wait for what’s coming next in 2026. 🏉💙💛