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Girls in the action: TAS and Pacific Lutheran College vie for the ball in the girls\u2019 U14s competition (supplied)<\/p>\nJunior rugby clubs have dominated this year\u2019s TAS Rugby Carnival in Armidale, with a record number of teams and players taking part in one of the country\u2019s largest grassroots events.<\/p>\n
More than 1200 players representing 69 teams from across New South Wales, Queensland and the ACT competed in around 340 games over two days at The Armidale School\u2019s 21st annual carnival.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Clubs took out the majority of divisions, with Brothers Rugby Club from the Sunshine Coast winning the inaugural under 10s competition, while Dalby and District Rugby Club claimed the Canterbury Spirit of Rugby trophy.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The carnival, held over the weekend of 18\u201319 April, brought together teams from across the eastern seaboard, reinforcing its reputation as the largest event of its kind in Australia.\u00a0<\/p>\n
NSW Rugby Union CEO Peter Murphy said events like the TAS carnival play a critical role in developing the sport.<\/p>\n
\u201cGrowing the game across the state is something we\u2019re committed to, and carnivals like the TAS Rugby Carnival are the lifeblood of our game,\u201d he said.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cThey bring together young players, coaches, officials, families and volunteers in a spirit of competition, friendship and respect.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Girls in the action: TAS and Pacific Lutheran College vie for the ball in the girls\u2019 U14s competition (supplied)<\/p>\n
The event also featured girls\u2019 Sevens competitions in under 14 and under 16 divisions, alongside large under 10 and under 12 draws, reflecting the continued growth of participation across the sport.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Off the field, 35 young referees \u2014 some as young as 14 \u2014 officiated matches as part of the Country NSW Referees Program, gaining valuable experience under the guidance of mentors.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Former Wallabies James Holbeck and Sam Norton-Knight also attended, sharing their experiences with players and encouraging them to pursue the game with commitment and determination.\u00a0<\/p>\n
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Former Wallaby and TAS Old Boy James Holbeck srums down with the TAS U12s team (Simon Scott; TAS)<\/p>\n
Carnival manager Rachael Edmonds said the event\u2019s atmosphere had been a highlight.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe addition of the competition for under 10s was a great success and it was lovely to see some of the youngest players being mentored by older players,\u201d she said.\u00a0<\/p>\n
TAS Principal Ray Pearson said the carnival\u2019s success relied heavily on community support.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith the current economic situation in terms of the cost of fuel and regionally, worsening drought conditions, we are grateful that so many families were able to support the carnival,\u201d he said.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The event continues to be a major drawcard for Armidale and the New England region, bringing visitors, players and families together for a weekend of sport and community connection.<\/p>\n