Sometimes the weather gods win out. You'd hope that a season-ending festival would be played under warm spring sunshine. Sadly, the U7s at Hull Ionians were faced with cold, heavy rain and a wind straight off the North Sea; conditions that wouldn't have been out of place in early February. Hard enough for seniors, never mind 6- and 7-year olds. However, full credit to every player who traveled for their attitude and spirit: they all kept going, kept playing and kept supporting their team-mates. It was often harder waiting for the next match than when out on the field.

Inevitably, in those games, passing and tagging were more difficult than usual, with a slippy ball and greasy tags - not to mention cold fingers. But there was still some lovely running, many tries scored, and some particularly good tags taken in defence. Every player fully deserved their medal at the end (even if a coach did drop them all on the ground with the envelope they were having become sodden - sorry!), and can take full pride in their efforts.

Thanks also to the parents who suffered and supported equally from two hours standing around in the conditions, to Hull Ionians, who put on a very well-organised and friendly festival despite the challenges, and to the other clubs participating.