Cadets Shine in Army vs Navy Youth Festival at Twickenham…

Saturday 4^th May 2024 saw cadets from the Army Cadet Force (ACF) and the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) step onto the field to showcase their rugby skills in the Army vs Navy Youth Festival at Twickenham Stadium.

The event featured two boys' teams (U13s) and two girls' teams (U16s) representing the Army Cadets, facing off against opponents from our Navy counterparts. Before the main event of the Men's game, the preliminary pool games commenced, setting the stage for an electrifying display of skill and determination. As the anticipation built, 47,000 eager spectators filled the stands, awaiting the halftime finals.

From various regions, cadets representing Dyfed & Glamorgan ACF, Wiltshire ACF, Hampshire & Isle of Wight ACF, Llandovery College CCF, and Godolphin CCF formed the backbone of the Army Cadets' group. Their opponents, representing the Navy, were strong opponents from Devonport Services RFC and United Services Portsmouth RFC.

The cadets demonstrated unwavering resilience and the utmost professionalism through their impeccable teamwork. They embodied the values of discipline and camaraderie instilled by their training. The boys' teams secured commendable 3rd and 4th place finishes. However, it was the girls who truly shone, advancing to the finals and clinching 2nd and 3rd place positions.

For these young cadets, the experience was not just about the competition. It was about stepping onto the grounds of Twickenham Stadium, a place steeped in rugby history, for the first time. They were not just greeted by the roar of the crowd, but also by the opportunity to make history by playing on such a prestigious stage. The significance of the moment was not lost on them as they proudly represented their respective units and the Army Cadets as a whole.