Barnard Castle School hosts major rugby and hockey festival

Barnard Castle School again hosted its annual festival for rugby and hockey teams from across the North.

The young athletes competed for four trophies: the Seddon and Ewart Cups in hockey, and the Clegg Cup and Tait 10s in rugby.

oung athletes battle for silverware at Barney’s annual festival (Image: Supplied)

In the under-10s and under-12s hockey, Barnard Castle School faced teams from Dame Allan’s, Royal Grammar School (RGS) and High School for Girls in Newcastle, as well as Thirsk, Durham, Aysgarth near Bedale, Scarborough College and Belhaven Hill School in Dunbar.

In the under-10s and under-12s rugby, Barnard Castle pupils faced teams from Dame Allan’s, Yarm, Aysgarth, RGS, Durham, QEGS in Wakefield, Prince Henry Grammar School in Otley, Scarborough College, Bradford Grammar School, Rodillian near Leeds, Hymers in Hull, Sedbergh, Darlington Mowden Park, Woodhouse Grove in Bradford and Belhaven.

Sporting memories made at Barnard Castle School’s annual festival (Image: Supplied)

Barnard Castle School’s director of sport Rachael Masterman said: “With 38 teams, more than 390 young athletes and a huge number of spectators, the festival provided an outstanding opportunity for pupils to compete, make new connections and experience the enjoyment of school sport alongside schools from across the North of England and beyond.”

“The trophies carry a strong connection to Barnard Castle School’s sporting heritage. The hockey cups are named after former teachers who played an important role in developing hockey at the school.”

Rugby action as schools from across the North descended on Barney (Image: Supplied)

“The rugby trophies honour Old Barnardians who went on to enjoy illustrious careers in the sport. As a result, the young athletes competing for the cups were not only playing for tournament honours, but were also becoming part of a sporting tradition that stretches back through generations of Barnard Castle pupils.”

Barnard Castle School headmaster David Cresswell added: “It really is a highlight of the school year to host this sporting festival where we witness such great sportsmanship on the pitch and watch some very entertaining hockey and rugby.”

Future stars shine in a day of competition, teamwork and sportsmanship (Image: Supplied)

“The great thing about sport is that it is a community and pupils will find themselves playing the same people as they grow up, thereby forging some lasting friendships. I used to play hockey, it was my favourite sport, and I made friends for life as a result.”

Barnard Castle School’s sixth-form students also took charge as umpires and referees during the festival.

Rachael said: “Their contrib

ution was a fantastic example of how sport at Barnard Castle extends beyond participation, providing students with valuable opportunities to develop leadership, communication, decision-making and confidence.”

Future stars shine in a day of competition, teamwork and sportsmanship (Image: Supplied)

Barney’s First XI hockey captain Ella T said: “The festival always sees some great competitive games, played in a fabulous atmosphere, offering the opportunity to meet new people and the chance for pupils to test themselves against different teams. It’s a time to make memories which will stay with you forever.”

First XV captain Harry C added: “It’s a great chance to play with your mates, enjoy the occasion and competition and watch the next generation of Barney players coming through the ranks.”

Future stars shine in a day of competition, teamwork and sportsmanship (Image: Supplied)

Future stars shine in a day of competition, teamwork and sportsmanship (Image: Supplied)