A Grand Finale for Young Rugby Players

The Sports City of Santo Domingo is set to become a hub of youthful energy on June 7th, as it hosts the IV Marina Laguna Rugby festival. This event, a collaborative effort between the Alcorcón Rugby Club, the Madrid Federation of rugby, and the Alcorcón City Council, promises a day filled with sport, family fun, and heartfelt tributes. Over 2,500 young rugby enthusiasts from across the Madrid community are expected to participate in what has become a cornerstone event for formative rugby.

The festival marks the culmination of the season for the Under-6, Under-8, Under-10, and Under-12 categories. The morning will be dedicated to the younger age groups (Sub-6 to Sub-10), while the U-12 category will take center stage in the afternoon, bringing the competitive season to a close.Emphasizing progress over competition, the festival will uphold its tradition of omitting scores and classifications, focusing instead on formative rugby, respect, camaraderie, and core values.

Beyond the Game: A Family-Friendly Festival Experience

More than just a series of matches, the Marina Laguna Rugby Festival aims to create a comprehensive leisure experience for families. The venue will be transformed into a vibrant family zone, offering a range of activities and attractions:

• A lively Fan Zone featuring music, diverse food trucks, and local vendor stalls.
• Inflatable castles, play mats, and various engaging children’s activities.
• Interactive workshops,face painting stations,a dedicated social zone,and sports-related stands.
• A medal ceremony recognizing the participation of every young athlete.

With over 100 dedicated volunteers from the club and the municipality, the festival is committed to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all attendees, fostering a sense of community and shared celebration.

Honoring a Legacy: The Enduring Impact of Marina Laguna

The festival proudly bears the name of Marina Laguna, a former player, coach, and influential figure within the Alcorcón Rugby Club. Her passion and commitment left an indelible mark on the local rugby scene. Marina’s journey with the CRA began as a player in the club’s first women’s team,and she quickly transitioned into a coaching role,dedicating herself to nurturing young talent. She served as a captain, mentor, and friend, becoming an indispensable driving force within the club.

For five seasons, Marina coached the Under-6 category, demonstrating unwavering dedication and emotional investment that made her a pillar of the club. She attained CE level 1 and level 2 coaching certifications, consistently advocating for the growth of women’s rugby and youth development. Her passing in 2021 left a void, but her legacy continues to inspire, transforming into a celebration of values, community, and the positive impact of rugby.

The Marina Laguna Rugby Festival serves as a powerful tribute, not only honoring her memory but also celebrating the transformative power of rugby in shaping the lives of children, families, and the broader community. Events like this are crucial for the continued growth of rugby. For example, initiatives like HSBC SVNS aim to broaden rugby’s global appeal by making it more accessible to younger audiences [[1]].