Over the final weekend of April, more than 70 of Richmond Rugby’s Minis embarked on their biggest adventure of the season, the Richmond Minis Tour 2025, culminating in the Uckfield Festival. What unfolded was a brilliant showcase of grassroots rugby at its finest, packed with fun, friendships, development and plenty of Richmond memories.

Players from U7 to U11 age groups travelled down to the Hindleap Activity Centre near East Grinstead from 25–27 April, immersing themselves in the kind of weekend that will stay with them forever. For many, it marked the first time wearing Richmond colours on tour, the very start of a journey that may one day lead to putting on the 1st XV jersey at the RAG.

The tour struck the perfect balance between rugby and adventure. Off the field, our young players scaled climbing walls, tried their hand at archery, navigated obstacle courses, built shelters, toasted marshmallows around the campfire, and truly got stuck into everything Hindleap had to offer. It wasn’t just the kids enjoying themselves, the relaxed setting allowed parents across all age groups to connect in true Richmond fashion: laughs and stories shared over beers, and new friendships forged.

On Saturday, the squad travelled to East Grinstead RFC, who kindly hosted joint training sessions and friendly matches after a last-minute venue change. The addition of a Saturday rugby fixture was a welcome one, offering the Minis valuable game time before Sunday’s main event.

Sunday saw our players take to the pitch for the Uckfield Minis Festival, and Richmond Rugby turned out in style. With only one loss across all age groups, the talent, teamwork and spirit on display was something to be truly proud of. “Richmond Rugby totally dominated the day,” tour organiser and U11 parent Matt Shefras reported, “All in all, a very good weekend!”

Quotes from families speak volumes about the impact of the tour:
“From the minute my boys joined Richmond Rugby they have been welcomed with open arms… The boys made so many new friends while enjoying the teamwork and all the wonderful things that go with that. I know both myself and my boys are incredibly proud to be part of Richmond Rugby Club.”

“My son enjoyed his first rugby tour with his U8 rugby buds… I feel our boys have deepened their connection with the club, the community and each other.”

“It was perfect, I often didn’t see Oli for hours while he was off shelter building, obstacle coursing and marshmallow burning.”

At Richmond Rugby, we’re incredibly proud of our Minis and the community of coaches, parents and volunteers who make experiences like this possible. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back next season.