The Defender Rising Stars Cup, in partnership with PREM Rugby, aims to develop and inspire the next generation of players.

The annual showcase of Defender’s support for grassroots rugby, the Defender Rising Stars Cup is a series of Under-11 and Under-12 rugby festivals hosted nationwide by PREM Rugby clubs throughout the season.

A key part of the grassroots rugby calendar each season, the festivals are designed to provide aspiring young players competitive game-playing opportunities in a professional environment to help them develop their game. With a focus on rugby’s core values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship, players develop new skills and learn vital lessons that will serve them both on-and-off the rugby pitch.

Our exciting festival this season, hosted by Sale Sharks Foundation at Manchester Rugby Club, featured 640 junior players from various grassroots teams across the North West.

We love supporting our grassroot clubs and seeing potential Sharks talent swimming amongst the teams at the start of their rugby journeys.

You can read more about the success of this season’s festival here.

If you would like further information about the Defender Rising Stars Cup, please email foundation@salesharks.com