It was a fantastic Sunday of rugby for the Hastings & Bexhill girls, with our U12s and U16s making the trip to Medway while the U14s continued their preparations with a training session at Eastbourne.

With the sun shining and plenty of rugby being played, there was lots to celebrate across all three age groups as the new season gets underway.

U12s Show Heart and Stamina at Medway

The U12 girls produced a performance to be incredibly proud of, playing more than an hour of rugby across two back-to-back games and showing remarkable stamina right through to the final whistle.

Facing two Medway sides meant the Hastings & Bexhill girls had little opportunity for extended breaks, but they continued to work hard for one another and played with real determination throughout.

Their performance didn’t go unnoticed either, with those watching — including members of the Medway coaching team — commenting on how well the girls were playing and the strength they showed across the afternoon.

After a huge amount of rugby, there was very little between the sides, with Medway eventually edging a remarkable contest 75–70.

More important than the final score was the character shown by the whole group. The girls played with guts, heart and pride and put in a huge shift for their team.

Florence was named Coaches’ Player, while Tilly earned the Players’ Player award.

Confidence Grows for the U16s

For the U16s, the opening game of the season represented an important milestone for a squad at the beginning of a new chapter.

Three girls pulled on their boots for their first ever game of rugby, while several others were making the step up and playing their first match at U16 level.

Understandably, it took a little time for the group to settle. Medway started strongly and put Hastings & Bexhill under pressure early on, but as the girls grew in confidence, the performance began to develop with them.

By the second half, H&B were putting together some very encouraging attacking rugby, showing glimpses of what this developing group is capable of as combinations began to click and the players became increasingly comfortable at the new level.

For those making their debuts in particular, getting that first competitive game under their belts will provide invaluable experience. There was plenty for the whole squad to take forward as they now turn their attention to their first league fixture of the season, away to Worthing next weekend.

Truly was named Coaches’ Player, while Essi earned the Players’ Player award for her contribution on the day.

U14s Building at Eastbourne

Meanwhile, the U14 girls were at Eastbourne for a training session as they continue to build relationships and settle in alongside their new teammates.

It was another valuable opportunity to develop as a group, build confidence and enjoy their rugby as they prepare for the season ahead.

A big thank you to Medway and Eastbourne for hosting, and well done to every player who represented Hastings & Bexhill.

From first-ever matches and players stepping into a new age group to an extraordinary shift from the U12s, it was a Sunday full of valuable experience for the girls’ section — and plenty to build on as the season gathers pace.