🏉 T1 Tournament Triumph: Bringing Schools Together Through Rugby at Yate 💙

This past week, Yate Rugby Academy proudly played host to one of our favourite events of the season the T1 Schools Network Tournament! And what an afternoon it was. Filled with energy, inclusivity, passion, and most importantly, rugby values, it was a shining example of what sport can do when we come together for the right reasons.

With over 50 students from Brimsham Green, Yate Academy, and Chipping Sodbury School, the event welcomed a diverse mix of players—different ages, backgrounds, and genders all stepping onto the pitch to experience the fast-paced, non-contact game of T1 Rugby.

🌟 More Than Just a Game

At Yate Rugby, we’re proud to say that this wasn’t about who scored the most tries—it was about who played with the most heart.

The trophy wasn’t awarded for points, but for living the core values of rugby:

Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, and Sportsmanship.

🥇 Congratulations to Brimsham Green School, who lifted this year’s T1 Trophy. Your team’s inclusivity, effort, and spirit on and off the pitch truly stood out. A deserved win in every sense.

👏 Player Shoutouts – Future Stars of the Game!

It wouldn’t be a Yate Rugby event without celebrating those standout moments that made us smile (and made referees run a little harder!):

• Sebastian, Riley, and Jed (Chipping Sodbury): These three brought the flair! Their dynamic, high-paced play would’ve looked right at home in an All Blacks match

  and they’re from three different year groups! Amazing chemistry and confidence on display.

• Harrison (Year 8, Yate Academy) and Alfie: Both showed outstanding positivity and mindset, supporting teammates and playing with genuine joy. Exactly what this tournament is about.

• Joe (Brimsham Green): Joe’s leadership stood out. His mission? To make sure every teammate got a touch of the ball. That’s rugby. That’s what makes a captain.

• Frayer (Brimsham Green): Confident. Committed. Fearless. Frayer mixed it with the boys and made an impact at every opportunity. A powerful example of inclusion in action.

  
  

🙌 Thank You, Team!

A huge round of applause to the brilliant PE teachers who make our Schools Rugby Network possible:

• Mr Allen (Chipping Sodbury)

• Mr Rivett (Yate Academy)

• Mr Powell (Brimsham Green)

And to Kirsty from Bristol Bears Community Foundation, thank you for jumping in to help referee and for continuing to champion the values we hold dear at Yate Rugby.

🚀 Looking Ahead

This tournament wasn’t just a highlight it was a moment of pride for everyone involved in our school's programme. It proves what we’ve always known: rugby has the power to unite.

Whether it’s through contact or non-contact formats like T1, the game gives young people a place to grow, express themselves, and build lifelong friendships.

We’re already excited for the next tournament in July 2025, and we’ll be working hard between now and then to grow participation even further.

If your school, business, or community organisation would like to get involved in our Schools Network or support our inclusive rugby programmes, visit www.yaterugby.com or message us on social media.

Because at Yate Rugby, we don’t just grow players—we build a community. 💙