On Wednesday, Chinthurst’s U11A rugby team travelled to the Donhead Festival for the final fixture of their Chinthurst rugby journey. Facing strong opposition from schools with large squads and extensive experience of two-term rugby, the team approached the day with a clear goal: to enjoy the experience of 7s rugby, play together one last time, and represent the school with pride.

Across the festival, the team played six matches and showed tremendous determination, teamwork and spirit throughout the day.

Chinthurst first match was against Thomas’s in a challenging encounter. Despite a spirited performance, strong work at the breakdown from their opponents proved decisive and the match ended in a 25–15 loss. With barely a minute to recover, the team then faced City of London Freemen’s, producing an outstanding response. Playing with flair and confidence, Chinthurst kept the ball alive through excellent support play and quick pop passes. Their attacking pivot move proved particularly effective, leading to three tries and earning applause from spectators on the sideline in a superb 30–10 victory.

The third match followed immediately afterwards, meaning three games back-to-back, a significant challenge in the fast-paced format of 7s rugby. Cranmore, one of the strongest teams at the festival, eventually secured a 45–15 win. However, the defining moment came in the final stages when, despite clear exhaustion, the Chinthurst team launched a relentless attacking sequence inside the opposition’s 22, keeping the ball alive through multiple phases before being held up just short of the line. The effort and character shown impressed not only their own supporters but also the Cranmore coach, who later spoke to staff about the determination displayed.

After lunch, Chinthurst faced Trinity. Although they opened the scoring, a series of unforced errors allowed Trinity to take control of the match, which ended in a 25–10 defeat.

The team regrouped before facing hosts Donhead and produced their strongest performance of the festival. Competing confidently in the air, making crucial tackles and attacking with purpose, Chinthurst delivered an impressive 35–25 win.

Their final match came against Hoe Bridge. With energy levels fading after a demanding day of rugby, the focus was simply on enjoying the final moments together on the pitch. The team played with enthusiasm and unity, showcasing the full range of their skills in a hard-fought contest that finished 20–20.

Although no overall winners were declared, in line with RFU festival regulations, each team nominated one player who best demonstrated the rugby values of T.R.E.D. (Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment and Discipline). Congratulations to Elsie, who was Chinthurst’s deserving recipient.

The team were superbly supported by parents throughout the day, braving windy and chilly conditions to cheer the players on. Special thanks also go to Mrs Thomson for her invaluable support during the festival.

The Donhead Festival proved to be both a valuable introduction to the physical and mental demands of 7s rugby and a meaningful conclusion to this team’s time playing together for Chinthurst. After 12 fixtures this season, the players have grown enormously in confidence, skill and resilience, while demonstrating outstanding teamwork and sportsmanship.

More than the results, it is the spirit of this group that will be remembered: their determination, kindness, togetherness and pride in representing the Chinthurst shirt. An exceptional group of players who should be incredibly proud of everything they have achieved this season.