This past weekend saw the Zug U12 team, along with U10, and U8, attending the very well-organised and welcoming Würenlos tournament with approximately 300 players in attendance. The sun was shining bright and the energy was high from both players and spectators.

The U12's competition was divided into two pools, each consisting of four teams. Each of the three pool matches was an intense affair lasting 20 minutes. In Pool A, Lugano showcased their physical rugby by overpowering an always strong GePlo team in their pool, emerging victorious in all three of their matches. It was clear Lugano had come to secure a first place victory, once again.
In Pool B, Zug faced stiff competition, notably from a highly skilled and disciplined team from Morges. Despite being a man down for nearly half the match, Zug demonstrated unwavering determination, skilful passing, and courageous tackling, and was able to emerge undefeated from Pool B, setting the stage for a thrilling final against Lugano, from Pool A.

Throughout the season, Lugano has been a formidable opponent at the U12 level, often routing Zug with their size, determination, and aggressive play. Despite this, Zug remained undaunted, their resolve unshaken as they squared off against familiar adversaries. It was apparent that Lugano was in peak condition and well-prepared for the final match as they took almost immediate control of the game and spent what seemed like ages parked in front of Zugʼs try-line. Their attacks were relentless and it seemed like only a matter of time before they broke through Zugʼs defences and scored. It appeared history was about to repeat itself. Tries would begin raining down and Zug's heads would begin to hang.
Keep Fighting! Donʼt give up! You can do it! We believe in you! Hopp Zug! Hopp Zug! Hopp Zug!
The encouragement began pouring in from the Zug supporters. Mums and Dads, Grandmas and Grandpas bound together, their voices as one. The players heard them and continued to battle and a fire began to burn in their hearts. A warrior awoke in each Zug player. Zug had been bested by this opponent several times before but instead of accepting defeat, they doubled down on their efforts to repeal the attack. Lugano found it impossible to break through Zugʼs tenacious defence. They stumbled and Zug attacked, finding a chink in their back line to go up 1-0.
Lugano fought back though and brought the score even. At the subsequent kick-off, Zug players encouraged each other to keep fighting. “Not today,ˮ one of the older players yelled... “Today we keep fighting, no matter what!ˮ The Zug players banded together, determined not to relinquish the momentum they had worked so hard for. What followed next was a brilliant display of teamwork and perseverance, as U12 fought as one with the spirit of gladiators to claim their well-deserved and decisive 4-1 victory over Lugano and their place in the winnerʼs circle.
The coaches and players who were not able to attend the tournament or had to leave early were sorely missed.
This seasonʼs turnaround, culminating with this past weekendʼs performance was only possible because of the extremely dedicated group of players, parents, and coaches who collectively make Zug Rugby Club so special.

Bravo to the Zug U12, U10, and U8 teams for their first-place victories and all the challenges they have managed to overcome this season. Sunday was a special day for Zug Rugby Club minis, and I'm sure that, like me, many others are still savouring the sweet memory. May the lessons learned and the memories linger on. Hopp Zug!

Author: Cal Grosse