Thank you to the dedication of the coaching staff, team managers and volunteers who get the images, forms and information to us every week to celebrate all Vectis RFC's successes, we are so proud to share this and get some National Recognition striving to improve Rugby provisions for the youth of the Isle of Wight in the future.

With a thriving group of over 300 young players lacing up their boots each week, Vectis RFC—the Island’s only dedicated youth rugby club—is experiencing a golden era of unprecedented growth.

From the muddy knees of our newest Under 6s to the towering presence of our senior Colts, the Vectis family is bigger, bolder, and more united than ever. We have always known that the rugby community on this Island is something incredibly special, but this week, the highest levels of English rugby took notice.

A Massive Week on the National Stage

With the Women's Six Nations currently shining a global spotlight on the elite game, Vectis RFC made sure the Island was represented. This past weekend, a colossal contingent of 150 Vectis players, parents, and coaches—joined by our friends at Wight Wolves—boarded the ferries and descended upon the Allianz Stadium at Twickenham.

Together, from the youngest minis to the oldest teens, they watched the Red Roses kick off their campaign in spectacular style with a dominant 33-12 victory over Ireland. But the magic of the weekend started before the first whistle even blew.

In an emotional surprise for the club, Vectis RFC received a personal video message from Red Roses star and Captain, Meg Jones, cheering on our players and praising the tireless efforts of our volunteers who make Island rugby possible. This was followed by a beautifully penned letter of support from RFU President, Deborah Griffin OBE. If you want to watch Megs Message head over to our socials or website.

And finally, the committee’s big secret is out: While at Twickenham, some members of the club had an exclusive interview with the England RFU communications team. In the coming weeks, the RFU will be releasing a special feature video focusing entirely on the unique story of Vectis Rugby Club. To know that the Red Roses and the RFU are watching and cheering us on makes every logistical challenge of being an Island-based club entirely worth it.

Building the Sisterhood: The Rise of the Girls’ Squad
The electrifying momentum from Twickenham hasn't just stayed on the mainland; it is actively fuelling the fire on our local pitches. Ventnor First Team Captain and Vectis girls’ coach Lewy Morton is seeing the professional "sisterhood" of the Red Roses reflected directly in the growing ranks of the Vectis girls' squad.

Having recently returned from their first-ever tour—a true rite of passage in the rugby world—the girls are forging a fiercely positive identity.

"The coaching team is introducing traditional rugby values, but the girls are adding their own vibe and personalities to the mix," Morton explains. "You can see the Red Roses have each other’s backs and genuinely care for each other on that world stage. It’s that exact same spirit we are building right here."

For any girls on the Island who are hesitant about trying a contact sport, Morton's message is an open invitation: "Rugby is one of the only sports in the world that actually requires totally different body types and skill levels. At Vectis, we grow as a team. The girls teach and motivate each other. Just give it a go. You have absolutely nothing to lose."

Colts Leave it All on the Pitch in Epic Semi-Final Clash
While the girls’ squad is busy writing exciting new chapters, our Colts team closed out their season by leaving a legacy of pure grit.
Vectis Colts 24 - 31 New Milton
Played at Sandown & Shanklin RFC

In the Hampshire Plate semi-final, Vectis faced a towering New Milton side sitting two leagues above them. On paper, Vectis shouldn't have stood a chance. On the grass, however, they unleashed a performance for the ages.

Battling through howling winds, the Vectis forwards utilized a ruthlessly dominant scrum to dictate the pace of the game, exchanging heavy blows with New Milton from the first whistle. After scoring early, Vectis kept the giants on the ropes for the entire match. It was a nail-biting, physical war of attrition. New Milton only managed to snatch the lead with a heartbreaking six minutes left on the clock. Refusing to yield, Vectis fought their way back down to the 5-meter line, agonizingly close to a final score before a turnover ended the game.

For several of these young men, this marks their final appearance in junior rugby before they transition into the senior adult game.

To our leavers: you have set a gold standard of toughness and teamwork. Take that grit with you, carry the friendships you’ve built over the years, and remember your roots—you will always have a home at Vectis.

A Legend Steps Down: Thank You, Ross Edmunds!
You cannot talk about the journey from youth to adult rugby without talking about Ross Edmunds. Sunday’s Colts match wasn't just the end of a season; it marked the end of an era. After years of coaching, mentoring, and guiding players through every single age grade at Vectis RFC, Ross has officially stepped down from the touchline.

From teaching tiny tots how to hold a ball to analysing scrums with the powerhouse Colts, Ross’s influence has been woven into the very fabric of this club.

Ross, while you have certainly earned the rest, your wisdom, your booming voice on the training pitch, and your unwavering commitment to our players will be massively missed. The entire Vectis family thanks you.

The Future is Bright: U12s and U10s Bring the Heat
As our seniors move on, the younger ranks are already proving that the future of Island rugby is in incredibly safe hands.
Under 12s vs Banbury RFC
Friday Night Lights at Wootton Isle of Wight RFC

Vectis welcomed touring mainland side Banbury RFC for a fantastic Friday night fixture! Both sides fielded exceptionally strong teams, battling hard over two games to the cheers of a roaring, packed sideline. The boys showed phenomenal physicality in the tackle area and beautiful, connected teamwork.

Standout Players of the Match: Harry H, Harry G, Archie, and Oskar were awarded top honours for their relentless work rate, with special mention to Harry H and Jacob for their fabulous power running.

Under 10s at the Fawley RFC Festival
Fawley RFC

Traveling across the Solent with a inexperienced squad, the U10s faced a massive developmental challenge against the likes of Eastleigh, Trojans, and Gosport. Every single player stepped up to the challenge, finishing the festival with an astonishing record of 7 wins and only 2 losses! Relentless tackling, aggressive rucking, and constant communication were the magic ingredients for success.

Standout Performances: While the entire squad played out of their skins, massive shoutouts go to Zach, who acted as an absolute "tackle monster" shutting down the opposition, and Mali, who was a genuine destructive force, scoring an unbelievable 18 tries across the tournament!

Whether you are 6 or 18, a seasoned player or someone who has never touched a rugby ball, there is a jersey waiting for you. Follow Vectis RFC on our social media channels to find out about upcoming training sessions and keep an eye out for our upcoming RFU documentary feature!

Isle of Wight Rugby Festival: Brought to you by Tour International, this massive weekend event will take place at Medina on May 1st and 2nd. It will feature live music on stage all day, food stalls, bars, and incredible rugby.

Vectis Awards Night: The club will celebrate the achievements of its players, coaches, and volunteers at the Medina Theatre on May 7th.

Join the Vectis RFC Family!

Inspired by this weekend's success? Vectis RFC is recruiting across all age groups, from Under 6s right through to Under 18s! Whether you are brand new to the sport and want to give it a try, or you are an experienced player looking for a great club atmosphere, there is a place for you here. Come down, get involved, and become part of our fantastic rugby community.
• Youth: Vectis RFC welcomes players from U6 to U18, your first 2 sessions are free.
• Volunteers: Vectis RFC is always looking for volunteers and support.
• Adults: The Isle of Wight boasts three senior clubs for those looking to return to the game or start fresh.
About Vectis RFC
Vectis RFC is the only community youth rugby club on the Isle of Wight, providing coaching and competition for players from U6 through to Colts. We are dedicated to fostering a love for rugby, teamwork, and sportsmanship in a safe and supportive environment. We pride ourselves on developing the next generation of rugby talent and supporting the 3 mighty Island Senior Clubs Isle of Wight RFC, Ventnor RFC and Sandown & Shanklin RFC.
• Website: www.pitchero.com/clubs/vectis2
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/VectisRFC