The Warlingham Wildcards travelled across London recently to take part in the Old Grammarians Social Touch Tournament, writes player Richard Green, although the first challenge of the day came before we had even left, when we realised we had more players than available seats for the journey! With some arm-twisting, an extra vehicle was commissioned for the pole-to-pole trip from South to North London, and, eventually, a full team emerged at the other end.

Before the opening whistle, Kat and Michelle found themselves recruited by the Chipstead Flames — who would go on to win the Women’s competition. That left the Wildcards facing an even greater challenge: five matches in three hours, played in temperatures approaching 30 degrees.

With captain Jamie bringing experience and composure at the front, the team still fancied its chances, and Emilio’s playlist soon had the Wildcards’ trademark party atmosphere in full swing.

Ian seemed to be here, there and everywhere across the pitch, while Dan produced a series of flying catches on the wings following some stylish attacking play from Lewis and Rochelle. Between matches, Nirav took on the important responsibility of Lead Team Dancer, coaching players through the finer points of Bhangra, country and salsa dancing with deft shimmies — that lad can move!

The energy continued throughout the tournament. Every try was cheered, every defensive effort celebrated and every dropped ball greeted with plenty of laughter.

David showed enormous commitment with several spectacular diving touches, while also keeping everyone entertained with a steady supply of fascinating facts about Enfield. Cedric and Dylan barely stopped all day, controlling play through the middle and keeping the team moving forward.

There were plenty of tries to celebrate too. Craig and Richard both completed hat-tricks, while Cameron claimed the title of Wildcards Try King with four scores, including a sublime diving catch.

Three victories, a draw against Saracens Touch and just one defeat, against the eventual tournament winners, Galaxy Touch, represented a fantastic set of results and showed just how far the Wildcards have come in such a short space of time.

The day finished with a barbecue, court, plenty of team bonding, and some poetry from Michele — yes, poetry! Another successful Wildcards day out, and excellent preparation for Amsterdam Tour 2026!