There was lots of excitement leading up to the Bangkok International Rugby 10s. This was our first international rugby tournament for many coaches, players, and supporters from the DB Pirates.
With teams across Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, the tournament lived up to its billing as Asia's Biggest Social Rugby Tournament.
The inclusive tournament comprised youth, seniors, women, vets, and touch rugby.
The tournament kicked off Friday night with the Welcome Party held at the Four Points by Sheraton.
This was an excellent opportunity to mingle with other teams, catch up with a few rugby mates, banter, and size up the competition.
After a great evening and a night's sleep, it was an early start for the youth on Saturday morning, with games starting at 7:30 am. The DB Pirates were well represented in the youth competition with teams in the U8, U10, U12, and U14 categories.
The games took place at the Bangkok Patana Sports Complex. It was a great facility and venue with a grandstand and six rugby pitches.
As we arrived at the Bangkok Patana Sports Complex, the rain poured down, and the players were challenged to play rugby in puddles of water, muddy pitches, and slippery ball.
The weather did not deter the DB Pirates, as they showed excellent skill levels by playing an attacking style of rugby and defending like the Trojans.
For the U8s, the opportunity to dive for tags and slip-and-slide in the paddles was the highlight of the day's rugby.
The DB Pirates Vets team took the field as the youth games ended and the sun started to shine. Made up of players from the Discovery Bay Pirates Senior Team, they took to the field winning their opening game and coming back from 19-0 down at the half time to draw with the Bangkok Bangers in their second game.
After a fantastic day of rugby, the team gathered for a team dinner and movie night. This was an excellent way for the club to build a spirit and culture among the age groups and an opportunity for parents to get to know each other and chat about the day's rugby.
Everyone had a great time; it was an excellent way to have some downtime and refresh for finals rugby on Sunday.
The Discovery Bay Pirates were well-represented in the finals on Sunday and had some fantastic results:
DB PIrates U10 A - Runners up in the Cup Final
DB PIrates U10 B - Winners of the Bowl Final
DB Pirates U12 A - Winners of the Cup Final
DB Pirates U12 B - Runners up in the Plate Final
DB Pirates 14 - finished 5th in a very competitive age category.
DB Pirates Vets - Runners up
A big shout must go to the DB Pirates U10A, who, despite playing in an intense and challenging final, played with a lot of heart, determination, courage, and passion and did the club proud.
Looking back at the weekend and seeing all the DB Pirates mini and youth rugby teams, I believe the club has a bright future ahead, and I'm proud to be associated with this excellent rugby club.
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