Sandal U8s closed off their 2024-25 season at a surprisingly chilly Chesterfield festival. As last year, this was a well-organised and friendly occasion, and the drive south gave us the opportunity to play several clubs we wouldn't normally have the chance to, such as Buxton and Amber Valley.

With reduced numbers due to the bank holiday and other commitments, Sandal took eleven players split into two teams, with the team-of-five (Sandal Gold) playing a mix of 5-a-side or 6s with a loaned player. The standard of play was higher than in other recent festivals and both Sandal teams well-matched against their various opponents, with Sandal mixing some really good play in both attack and defence with a few more mental lapses than in recent weeks. Overall though, there was a lot a good phase play, supporting running and some excellent tagging.

Looking back over the season as a whole, the biggest difference is in speed of play and thinking as a team, which has really come on markedly. Individual players have undoubtedly improved too but it's the cohesiveness of play now which is so encouraging to see.

As we end the season, a massive thanks to all the youngsters who've shown their commitment, skill, enthusiasm and respect - a real credit to the club and sport. Thanks also to the parents, friends and family who've supported them, and who've also supported the club in our own festival, on duty days and just in the little things that make everything run that bit more smoothly. Thanks also to the coaches, and the members of the club who are so essential in getting the games on in the first place, and to all who make Sandal RUFC such a friendly part of the rugby family to be part of.

So it's a goodbye to tag-rugby (see the attached video), and a whole new(ish) ball-game next season. Have a good summer everyone!