Pilkington Recs Under-12s Reds triumphed in the 9-a-side Rhinos Challenge, an event held near Butlin’s which attracts teams from across the country.

The side – featuring a number of players who have been with the Red, Amber and Blacks since the age of five – won all eight of their matches across the weekend.

The line-up also included two sons of Saints’ Australian star David Klemmer.

They came up against strong opposition from Oulton, Thatto Heath, West Bowling, Beverley, Normanton, Dewsbury Moor, Seaton and Siddal, but remained unbeaten throughout.

Pilkington Recs under 12s Reds at the Rhinos Challenge presentation (Image: Pilkington Recs)

Head coach Ryan McCann praised the squad’s commitment and team spirit.

He said: “We are made up – we had two teams in the tournament, the Reds and the Ambers, and both did really well.

“The effort and determination from the players got them there.

“They never took a backward step and that made us so proud.

“Overall, the Reds scored 38 tries and only conceded five, which shows the level they were playing at.”

Coaches Martyn Everett, Ryan McCann. Craig Forster and Lee Simmons (Image: Pilkington Recs)

McCann added that the event is highly regarded, particularly due to the calibre of teams from Yorkshire and beyond.

He said: “It’s a really prestigious tournament and you’re coming up against some strong sides from all over the place.

“The Ambers also had a great weekend and finished second in their pool on points difference, so it was a brilliant effort across the club.

“All the players celebrated together on the pitch at the end, which is what it’s all about.

“We’re one big team.”

Pilkington Recs under 12s at the Skegness tournament (Image: Pilkington Recs)

After their cup triumph, the players returned to the Butlin’s resort, where teams stay during the festival, to take part in a trophy presentation.

They collected a giant rugby ball trophy at a glitzy ceremony before marching through the site carrying it, with teams and parents from different Pilks age groups forming a guard of honour.