SKIBBEREEN RFC hosted a highly successful U18.5 ladies rugby tournament, with 80 talented young players from teams across the region taking to the pitch.

Teams from Kanturk, Tralee, Midleton and Ballincollig joined forces with the Skibbereen/Bantry RFC amalgamated team, the Rebelettes, for a day of thrilling rugby.

Local Munster senior player Abbie Salter-Townsend selected and presented Player of the Match awards to standout player performances on the day, including Julie Moynihan, Richelle Kingston, Isabelle O'Keefe, Clodagh Hickey, Alice O'Donovan, Roisin Cullinane, and Seren Lehane.

Seren Lehane (Rebelettes) presented with the player of the tournament award by Munster star Abbie Salter-Townshend. (Photo: Anne Minihane)

After seven games, the final came down to Midleton v Skibb/Bantry Rebelettes. A large crowd watched as Midleton edged out the unbeaten hosts to win a tense encounter, 14-12.

Overall, the tournament was a resounding success, showcasing fantastic rugby in front of huge crowds which added to the buzz of the day. Women's rugby is experiencing significant growth in the region, and events like this are crucial in fuelling that growth, providing young players with a platform to develop and showcase their skills.

The popularity of women's rugby is on the rise, and tournaments like this are testament to that growth. Skibbereen RFC and Bantry RFC are now offering girls-only rugby from U10 up to U18.5, with a women's team also, showing further evidence of the sport's increasing popularity.