Schools’ rugby festival finale
SCHOOLS from across Halton took part in the finale of a rugby initiative at Widnes Vikings’ recent fixture against Leigh Centurions.
The New Directions Education Year 5/Year 6 Super League festival involved children from six of the club’s partner primary schools.
It included youngsters from St Bede’s, Our Lady Of Perpetual Succour, Oakfield, Holy Family Cronton and St Michael’s, along with St Basil’s, who competed in games of rugby league on the i-Pitch.
Widnes Vikings first team stars Patrick Ah Van, MacGraff Leuluai and Brad Walker oversaw proceedings.
St Basil’s were eventually crowned champions after a 3-2 final win.
The three Vikings players presented medals following the tournament.
Vikings community co-ordinator Liam Clark said: “We were delighted to continue with another tournament in partnership with New Directions Education.
“Following on from the first festival before the Salford game, we were happy to see some outstanding rugby being played and everyone having lots of fun.
“It was great see the children enjoying playing on the i-Pitch, just like their first team heroes.
“We’d like to thank New Directions Education for their continued support of the Vikings and this brilliant initiative, which gives children memories that they’ll treasure for a long time.”
The cup is supported by New Directions Education, one of the largest education ● recruitment and training specialists in the UK.
The supply teaching agency has offices based across the country, including Wirral and Liverpool.
The agency’s bookings consultant Mark Monteith said: “The final was a fantastic occasion.
“New Directions Education would like to say well done to all the children involved.
“It is great to see the Vikings players taking time out of their game perpetrations to get involved with school children from the surrounding areas.”