Village pride was out in full force as the newly formed Brigham Bandits took to the field for their debut at the Touchdown Beats Bash’ Mixed Touch Rugby Competition, writes Vince Brand.
The event was hosted by Chance Camp at Cockermouth RUFC on Friday, June 20.
Born from a shared love of sport and a hefty dose of village camaraderie, the Bandits were brought together by local fitness enthusiast and former amateur rugby player, Matt Le Voi.
What began as a series of casual play date sessions on the school field soon became something more, as 11 friends and family – many calling Brigham home – stepped up to form a team for the night.
For most, this was their first time playing the sport, but what they lacked in experience, they made up for in spirit, teamwork, and community pride.
Facing off against a mix of youth squads and club-based teams – including a physically formidable Muay Thai gym – the Bandits opened their campaign with a thrilling win, setting the tone for an evening of very competitive and entertaining rugby.
Despite narrowly missing out in two matches by just a single point, the Bandits fought bravely throughout, finishing a proud 7th out of 12 teams.
There were standout moments aplenty – try-saving touches, dazzling runs, and sheer grit from a team whose average age was no match for the youth and agility of their opponents.
But most importantly, the Bandits captured the essence of what community sport is all about: playing for the joy of it, together.
The fun didn’t stop there, with the Bandits meeting the next evening to hand out some light-hearted awards for accolades such as Top Try Scorer, Most Improved, Players player and of course the most overly competitive!
With strong ties to St Bridget’s Primary School and a clear love for village life, this team has proven that when Brigham bands together, anything is possible.
Touchdown Beats organisers thanked everyone who took part.
Results
- Champions – Cockermouth Wasps
Runners-up – Broughton Red Rose Social - Plate Winners – Keswick RUFC Social
Runners-up – Lake District Barbell - Fancy Dress Winners – Keswick RUFC Social
- Junior Player – Nakita Gibson (Broughton Red Rose)
Senior Player – Saskia May (Lake District Barbell) - Results of Mixed Touchdown Beats: Champions – Chefs (A group of U16 mates); Runners-up – Broughton Red Rose u14s/Social
- Women’s Plate – Keswick RUFC Social, runners-up – Lake District Barbell
- Bowl – Half Backs & Half Wits, runners-up- Lake District Barbell
- Fancy Dress Winners: Bandits & Cockermouth Wasps Women/Girls
- Junior Player – Olly Muller (Chefs)
- Senior Player – Katie Livesey (Lake District Barbell)
