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Harlequins Rugby Club Magazine 2015

Harlequins Rugby Club Magazine 2015

51 HARLEQUINS RUGBY CLUB MAGAZINE 2015

ISSUE 51

RBS SIX NATIONS PROMISING TO BE THE MOST OPEN COMPETITION IN YEARS

RUGBY WORLD CUP 2015 WE LOOK AT HOW PREPARATIONS FOR THE TOURNAMENT ARE COMING ALONG MUTA PROVIDING A BEST PRACTICE GUIDE ON MARQUEE HIRE FOR SPORTS CLUBS

WWW.RUGBYCLUB.BIZ HARLEQUINS ONE OF THE MOST FAMOUS CLUBS IN THE WORLD OF RUGBY

£6.95 PRIVATE AIR TRAVEL AN INCREASINGLY POPULAR METHOD OF TRAVEL FOR RUGBY CLUBS Rugby_Ad_180x124_@200%:Layout 1 12/12/2014 13:31 Page 1

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This is the machine that has raised over £500,000 in pubs and clubs all over the UK. It is a very simple and regular way of raising funds for your club. Unlike other machines, there is no licence required and no VAT on the cash box. The machine comes with a full set of overprinted tickets with your club name printed on them. This set will give you a net profit of £1350.00 after all the prizes are paid out and a full one year warranty with full support after that.

The price of the machine is £695.00. This price included VAT and Carriage and the first set of tickets. To be paid either by cheque or credit card.

This machine will continue to make funds for your club for years ahead with very little effort on your part, this leaves you more time to concentrate on your other fund raising activities.

These machines are raising thousands of pounds extra revenue in sports clubs throughout the UK. They are easy for you to install and come with a full 1 year warranty and full spares and telephone back up service.

On your first purchase you will make £1350.00 net profit when all the tickets have been sold. With the Jack Slots tickets- you could raise £655 for your funds AFTER you have paid for the machine. The machine comes in a range of 6 colours for you to choose from. It will be the best investment you will ever make! CONTENTS

PUBLISHED BY PROCESS PUBLISHING LTD SUITE 1, SAVILLE EXCHANGE, HOWARD STREET, NORTH SHIELDS, ISSUE 51 NORTH TYNESIDE NE30 1SE RUGBY WWW.RUGBYCLUB.BIZ club

COMMERCIAL FEATURES 56 PERSHORE 113 JED-FOREST COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR 04 pRIVATE AIR TRAVEL 60 SHIPSTON-ON-STOUR 115 MOFFAT

IAN FINLAY 08 MUTA 62 SWINDON COLLEGE OLD BOYS 116 CHARD T: 0191 477 2512 10 2015 68 118 THURROCK E: [email protected] 14 six NATIONS 70 CLAREMORRIS COLTS 120 KELSO CLUBS IN PROFILE 73 122 KESTEVEN MEDIA DIRECTORS 17 FARNBOROUGH 74 MINCHINHAMPTON 125 SELKIRK 18 HARLEQUINS 76 BEDFORD SWIFTS 126 SEAHAM ANTHONY GILLEN 24 EPPING UPPER CLAPTON 78 129 TREHERBERT T: 0191 447 3718 26 burnham on crouch 80 DROITWICH 130 SWINTON LIONS E: [email protected] 32 TREHARRIS PHOENIX 82 WELSH 132 DAVID WILSON 34 SYSTON 86 MEDWAY 136 STANFORD T: 0191 447 6997 36 88 WETHERBY 139 HOYLAKE E: [email protected] 38 ST JACQUES 92 SHEPPEY 142 LLANDRINDOD WELLS DAVE LOCKER 42 ABERGAVENNY 94 HADDINGTON 144 T: 0191 447 3737 43 OLDHAM ST ANNES 96 TROJANS 145 KEYWORTH E:[email protected] 46 BOWDON 104 148 WELWYN JOHN RAE 47 PENALLTA 105 CUMBERNAULD 150 GALWEGIANS T: 0191 447 0804 50 HUNDRED 110 Gloucestershire All Golds E: [email protected]

STEVE TURNBULL T: 0191 447 6107 E: [email protected]

MELANIE RAE T: 0191 447 6767 E: [email protected]

PAUL LENNON T: 0191 340 0622 E: [email protected]

EDITORIAL HEAD OF PRODUCTION

GARRY HOOSAN T: 0191 597 6078 E: [email protected]

EDITOR IN CHIEF JAMIE SEYMOUR T: 0191 435 7878 E: [email protected]

DESIGN

CATHERINE GOLDSMITH ‘It will never happen to me!’ Visit any hospital on a weekend and you can guarantee to find an injured sports player. T: 0191 597 6078 We’ve all had a mate hobbling into the pub on crutches, getting plenty of free beer and having a laugh, but when they go E:[email protected] home, unless they happen to be lucky enough to have sick-pay through their employer, the unfortunate reality for most MATTHEW MURPHY is that with no income coming in and bills still to pay, they may be struggling financially. T: 0191 597 6078 E: [email protected] We insure cars, homes and mobile phones, but without your income none of this is possible. If you had a cash-machine in your house permanently giving you £1000 in cash every month, you’d certainly make sure it was insured against breaking down. Well, your body is that cash-machine, so should be one of the most important things you insure. WEB ADMINISTRATOR Whilst some injuries are obvious and may require an urgent visit to the hospital, life in the real world can show us that JASON AMES E: [email protected] many injuries only become apparent days later. If you’re then signed off work it may be hard to prove that it happened on the sports field, and if you only had ‘sports-accident insurance’ your claim could be declined. So why take the risk? OFFICE MANAGER MARIE LENG Peter Preston of income protection specialists INCOME ASSURED recommends comprehensive income protection T: 0191 447 6161 cover rather than sports-accident insurance; because if you’re signed off work it doesn’t have the same restrictions on E: [email protected] what you can claim for, and is much cheaper than people think. Subject to underwriting, pre-existing conditions may also be covered too. In his 20 years’ experience in the industry, Peter is still surprised at how many people are unaware of this type of cover. He says ‘If you want an insurance policy that covers you for all the sports you enjoy - including FOLLOW US ONLINE adrenalin-rush types, and want to know that you can potentially be covered for the same injury, as many times as you TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG like, as well as being covered for accidents at work (with most high-risk jobs included at no extra cost) and any illness, then this is the cover for you.’

© PROCESS PUBLISHING LTD ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Secure your future financially now by calling INCOME ASSURED for a quote on No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in 01209 614666. You won’t only be protecting your income; you’ll be protecting your any form or by any mean, or stored in a retrieval system without lifestyle too. prior written permission, except as permitted under the copyright designs and patents act 1998. Applications for permission for use of copyright material shall be made to the publishers. HARLEQUINS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG PRIVATE AIR TRAVEL

Private Air Travel has become increasingly popular and can be particularly useful for Sports club’s that have a large number of fixtures outside of their home country. The Baltic Air Charter Association (BACA) oversees the field with the objectives to ‘promote the highest standards of professionalism and ethics within the Aviation Industry.

Their Chairman, Tony Seeing people almost physically sucking in information is a Coe, took the time remarkable thing. With comments and observations after training to tell us more about sessions, it never ceases to amaze me just how important this the benefits involved aspect is in life - the passing on of knowledge.” for sports clubs using private air travel. He He went on to tell us about the part they play in representing started by giving us a little more information about BACA and the commercial aviation companies and said, “BACA currently has role he plays there, saying, “My company has been a member 216 member companies and this is increasing on average by of BACA since 1997. The Association has always stood as a 30-40 companies per year. The split is interesting. 34% Brokers, benchmark for quality, honesty and integrity. BACA’s motto “Our 33% aircraft operators, 33% associated companies such as word our Bond” says it all and has done since 1947. To be able fuelers, handling agents/FBO’s, aviation law firms, and so on. to display the BACA logo is a sign to the industry and clients that BACA has a code of conduct which each member signs up to, our business is conducted to the highest ethical, professional, and reaffirms that every year. and honest standards. We insist companies operate to the highest industry standards. The most rewarding aspects of my role are helping companies We represent the industry in many important areas. We fight and individuals through difficulties, sometimes with legal help but causes on behalf of the members should that be necessary. We certainly sharing our knowledge on how to cope in an extremely are introducing Broker industry standards which has never been competitive world. Training and particularly training younger done before, and are about to embark on a Training structure entrants to the industry is probably the most rewarding thing for that will encompass classroom and/or on-line courses.” me.

4 ISSUE 51 HARLEQUINS Making travel a pleasure, not a chore

What are the advantages of flying privately as guaranteeing that they will receive honesty and reliability opposed to first class with domestic airlines? together with realistic pricing.

Tony: There are many. Firstly there is security. You and your Have you any advice for those that are interested fellow passengers are the only ones travelling on that aircraft. in flying privately? The crews are dealing with corporate, business clients each and every day, and their first priority is always safety. Tony: Work with a BACA Broker. They have had to be in business for a minimum of 2 years, and many in excess of 20- Secondly you have multiple choice of airports that are not 30 years. They know the best aircraft for the job. They have available when flying first class and/or domestic. You can probably checked or even flown on various aircraft being generally depart from an airport much closer to your place of offered. Build up a rapport with the same company. work or residence. They get to know your likes and dislikes and travelling then Thirdly you can depart and arrive when you want to. becomes a pleasure and not a chore. Remember that cheap Generally you can arrive at an airport within 15 minutes of is not necessarily (and probably not) the best. your departure time and be airborne within a few minutes. The same applies to arrivals. Generally one can be on your Using the Internet can be good at times, however contracting way within minutes of landing. can leave you in a delicate situation. Some Internet aviation companies will insist you contract directly with an operator. What would be the main advantages to our Sports Clubs and Sports Professionals of using a Baltic Air Charter That’s fine until there is a problem, for example weather Member Company ? diversions, or you’re held up in traffic etc etc. And what do you know about contracting aircraft?! Tony: The BACA has a firm belief that abiding by the code of conduct is the correct way to do business and that A good broker will take care of all of that, and all the problem honesty and integrity are still valued by the majority of clients areas that can arise - and indeed they do. Booking via the worldwide, unlike some industries which seem to thrive off internet could leave all that messy stuff to you dishonesty and hoodwinking the general public. By using a Member Company Sports Clubs and Professionals are

www.rugbyclub.biz 5 HARLEQUINS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

We have created a new category in private jet travel.

Excellence.

Since 2005 Oxygen Aviation has stood for the very best in private aircraft travel. By consistently providing a first-class customer experience Oxygen Aviation has become a dominant global player in the private aviation market. Our philosophies of Trust, Service and Excellence are shared by us all and our reputation depends on providing each as much as the other.

Oxygen Aviation provide services to Government Bodies, Royal Families, Celebrities, Private Individuals and an array of Corporate Clients. The trust we earn from all our clients is due to the high levels of service and utmost discretion we deliver on every occasion. With access to aircraft with 4 to 400+ seats based all over the world, Oxygen Aviation can service any private aircraft requirement.

6 ISSUE 51 Call us today: +44 (0) 1403 237 010 Or send us an email: [email protected] HARLEQUINS The Baltic Air Charter Association

The aims and objectives of the Baltic Air Charter Association are:

• To be the representative forum of the air charter industry.

• To be accepted by governmental and other regulatory agencies as the accredited negotiating body representing the air charter industry.

• To promote the interests of its members world-wide:

• To provide membership to any organisation or individual who can demonstrate - Active participation in the air charter market.

• Commercial integrity, Acceptable financial standing, Occupational competency.

• To provide both professional and social facilities for members.

• To promote and protect the reputation of the industry

• To institute, promote, support or oppose legislative or other measures affecting the interests of members of the Association

• To assist with commercial mediation if required by members.

• To furnish such advice and assistance to members in pursuance of any of the above objects as the Council of the Association may, at its discretion, consider as necessary or expedient.

• To provide professional advice as requested on such terms and conditions as the Council may from time to time decide.

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The Baltic Air Charter Association A Breath of Fresh Air The aims and objectives of the Baltic Air Charter Association are: The Sporting Industry has always been an important part of private jet companies and encompasses a plethora of ‘reasons to fly’. It is not only reserved for the rich and famous - aircraft chartering has its place whether flying the sporting personality the fans or even, as we once had here at Oxygen Aviation, an urgent part of a Formula 1 car. (a) To be the representative forum of the air charter industry. Mark Green, Director of Oxygen Aviation says, “Private jets are all seen the “Transfer Deadline Day rush” and clubs need to nowadays a business tool. For the sports personality, it offers keep things under wraps until pen is put to paper, so sitting in (b) To be accepted by governmental and other quiet surroundings to focus before the competition or a relaxed Seat 1A on board a regular flight from Barcelona to Manchester regulatory agencies as the accredited negotiating environment for their holiday flights without media intrusion. could be seen as a ‘bit of a giveaway’. They also arrive more refreshed and whilst these days most body representing the air charter industry. personalities have no objection to posing for ‘selfies’ with adoring At Oxygen Aviation we have welcomed on board some of the fans, for every fan, there is also the fan of the competition who highest profile players in the Premiership during their transfers, (c) To promote the interests of its members might wish to offer some choice words of support! This applies as well as players to/from other European leagues, naturally world-wide: whether you’re a footballer, golfer, cricketer, rugby or we have comprehensive non-disclosure agreements signed to anyone well known in the sporting arena.” ensure discretion is rock-solid at all times, the slightest leak can scupper a deal.” (d) To provide membership to any organisation The fans also play their part in aircraft chartering, for away or individual who can demonstrate - Active fixtures and events the fans travel en masse, it can put a strain The costs are not vast either, chartering a private jet will almost participation in the air charter market, on the services offered by regular airlines and often they are not always be more expensive than business class airfares, but flying to the most convenient airport for the event, the chartered not to the extreme that you might think. Six passengers flying aircraft can utilise airports not serviced by scheduled services on a light-jet from to (return) can be bought for Commercial integrity, Acceptable financial whilst also travelling with a dedicated aircraft full of fellow as little as £5,000, when one considers the time saving at standing, Occupational competency. supporters. the airports alone, plus the enhanced travelling experience, it begins to make sense. Whilst there are the larger and more (e) To provide both professional and social facilities In terms of private jet as a business tool, it makes a huge luxurious aircraft that are more pricey, when prices start at less for members. difference during the transfer windows. Green than £1,000 per person, who is to say it is only for the rich and continued, “a club or an agent will use a private jet to move a famous. high profile player who is about to sign for a new club, we have (f) To promote and protect the reputation of the industry www.rugbyclub.biz 7 (g) To institute, promote, support or oppose legislative or other measures affecting the interests of members of the Association

We have created a new category in private jet travel. Excellence. (h) To assist with commercial mediation if required Since 2005 Oxygen Aviation has stood for the very best in private aircraft travel. By consistently providing a first-class customer by members. experience Oxygen Aviation has become a dominant global player in the private aviation market. Our philosophies of Trust, Service and Excellence are shared by us all and our reputation depends on providing each as much as the other. (i) To furnish such advice and assistance to Oxygen Aviation provide services to Government Bodies, Royal Families, Celebrities, Private Individuals and an array of Corporate Clients. The trust we earn from all our clients is due to the high levels of service and utmost discretion we deliver on every occasion. With members in pursuance of any of the above access to aircraft with 4 to 400+ seats based all over the world, Oxygen Aviation can service any private aircraft requirement. objects as the Council of the Association may, at its discretion, consider as necessary or expedient.

(j) To provide professional advice as requested on such terms and conditions as the Council may from time to time decide.

Call us today: +44 (0) 1403 237 010 Or send us an email: [email protected]

3 ISSUE 52 http://www.footballfocus.biz 4 MUTA FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG MUTA Temporary Structures – Another Marquee Signing

Rugby grounds and other sporting venues often benefit from extra event space provided by marquees and other temporary structures. Some clubs even use these types of structures for more permanent installations, a good example being Fanzones.

Fanzone areas are typically located near to the entry of the ground to encourage the free-flow of fans in the run up to the match. They are an ideal way of the club engaging with supporters, sponsors and the wider community “outside” while offering weather protection and controlling access to the space.

Such structures, which typically do not require planning permission, can be used as meeting points complete with lighting, temperature control, signage, big screens, refreshments, family activities and media & promotion areas. Frame Marquee (Danco Plc)

There are a wide range of temporary structure options available covering small spaces right up to single structures that can cover a whole pitch.

Traditional Marquees are popular for private functions and are widely available and easy to erect in widths from 20ft to 100ft.

Spectacular Marquees For Truly Memorable Occasions Frame Marquees, as the name suggests, consist of a rigid steel or aluminium frame over which covers are positioned. These marquees can be any size from 3m to 50m wide and can be up to 300m long. The uninterrupted internal space of frame structures makes them very popular for a wide variety of events from private functions to corporate hospitality and large exhibitions. In addition the engineered frame used for this type Weddings | Parties | Corporate | Themed Events of marquee can accept higher levels of loading by way of accessories, such as doors, glass windows, side panels, lighting, sound and sophisticated Established in 2004, Baillies Marquees are a family run Company with a deserved and enviable reputation for providing great Customer Service and flooring systems. Diversity of Product. We pride ourselves on offering a personal service and dedicated project Nordic Tipis take the familiar tipi-shaped tent, scale management to all our Private Customers and Corporate Clients. We offer our services predominantly throughout the Central belt of Scotland but can travel it up, and introduce the capability to link multiple further afield if required. Nordic Tipis together. Different linking techniques Baillies Marquees, together with our staff have worked tirelessly over the years can be used to create all manner of interesting to make sure all our customers expectations have been met ... or exceeded. shapes to meet the requirements of individual events. The main poles are the trunks of late- Marquee Hire in Glasgow - - Scotland maturing spruce trees harvested sustainably in the Glasgow :0141 774 0830 far north of Sweden, and the covers are a canvas Edinburgh: 0131 510 0162 fabric. The overall effect is natural and unusual.

8 ISSUE 51 MUTA

Permanent Fanzone Shelter (Aquila Shelters)

Stretch Tents are characterised by funky Once you have chosen the style of tents and structures, has prepared a Guide shapes in a wide variety of colours. They temporary structure for your event, it is to Choosing a Hirer which is available to use a special technical fabric that is stretchy important to take time to choose a reputable download for free from www.muta.org.uk but also provides structural stability. The hirer too. There are some brilliant marquee fabric is anchored at its corners and along and tent hirers out there, and some very All MUTA members abide by the Best it sides, and poles of different lengths are poor ones too. The best will build you a first- Practice Guide for the Safe Use and pushed up to create the iconic shapes. class structure, keep your stress levels low, Operation of Temporary Demountable manage your on-site risk and be a delight Structures which is supported by the Health Inflatable Tents use air to support the to work with. The worst ones will make your & Safety Executive. In addition all members structure. They typically use air beams, event a nightmare. are subject to regular Health & Safety tubular construction or cellular walls and inspections and are fully insured. are highly customisable and capable of To help in your choice, MUTA, the UK's only being branded. trade association dedicated to marquees,

www.rugbyclub.biz 9 RUGBY WORLD CUP 2015 FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG RUGBY WORLD CUP 2015

As we enter 2015, the Rugby World Cup moves ever nearer and the countdown to the tournament has now begun for the 20 teams set to compete. With RWC 2015 set to be one of the biggest events of the sporting calendar Rugby Club Magazine takes a look at the impact of the competition.

It is expected that around 460,000 supporters will make the journey to and for the tournament and the enthusiasm generated was there for all to see when tickets went on general sale in September.

Across the 17-day window over 5 million ticket applications were received with 1.85 million tickets being sold. This puts RWC 2015 on course to be the best attended and most viewed Rugby World Cup ever.

Speaking to www.rugbyworldcup.com England Rugby 2015 Chief Executive Debbie Jevans spoke of her hopes for the year ahead, saying, “It is hugely exciting to mark the year of Rugby World Cup 2015. Our ambition is that

10 ISSUE 51 www.rugbyclub.biz 11 RUGBY WORLD CUP 2015 FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

RWC 2015 – The Groups

Pool A Pool B Pool C Pool D

Pool A promises to be the On paper Anyone looking to win the Ireland’s performances in most competitive of the appear to have a clear World Cup will probably the autumn internationals groups with 3 high quality route into the quarter finals have to beat holders New highlighted their ability to sides set to compete for and it is difficult to see the Zealand and their fixture challenge at the very top of two places in the last 8. reality being any different. with promises the game. It is difficult for England and will Scotland showed plenty of to be a bruising encounter. anyone to predict how the both have to hit the ground promise in the Autumn and Tonga and Georgia will French will perform whilst running if they are to be Pool B should give them look to upset the odds Italy could do with a strong successful whilst specialist an opportunity to build against Argentina to grab performance here to give 7s nation Fiji also has the some momentum for the a place in the last 8. their game the shot in the potential to entertain. later stages. arm it needs.

Australia South Africa New Zealand England Samoa Argentina Ireland Wales Japan Tonga Italy Fiji Scotland Georgia Canada Uruguay USA Namibia Romania

England will feel like a ‘rugby nation’ can look forward to a very special and projection and growth. We really are set throughout 2015 and that we deliver record-breaking celebration of rugby for the best-ever Rugby World Cup.” a tournament that both excites and and the host nation. It really will be too inspires the nation while keeping rugby big to miss. Projections suggest that the at its heart.” competition will have a value of £982 As we enter Rugby World Cup year, million to the economy, creating Rugby World Cup Limited Chairman tournament preparations are in great new jobs, investment opportunities Bernard Lapasset also told the shape and driven by a collective vision as well as providing an opportunity competitions official website of his and strong teamwork between RWCL, to celebrate this magnificent game. plans for the tournament, “January England Rugby 2015 and the RFU, the Hopefully the home Nations will be 1 marks the beginning of the Rugby foundations have been laid to ensure able to produce strong performances World Cup 2015 year, and with a competitive tournament on the field, once the tournament gets under way excitement and anticipation gathering an exceptional experience off it, and but either way RWC 2015 is sure to be pace, fans and the participating teams the platform for unprecedented rugby a spectacle not to be missed.

12 ISSUE 51 HARLEQUINS

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www.rugbyclub.biz 13 FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG SIX NATIONS

2015 promises to be a huge year for with the World Cup just around the corner. First up we have the small matter of the Six Nations and it promises to be a cracker of a tournament. At least four of the sides entering the competition will be hoping to claim the trophy in one of the most open tournaments in years.

Last season Ireland took the Championship by the narrowest of margins on the final day after defeating France by 22-20 on the final day whilst England took the Triple Crown to become the first side to do so whilst not taking the overall title.

With the World Cup just around the corner there is additional emphasis on performing well here and with 4 fixtures set to be repeated in both competitions (England vs Wales, France vs Ireland, France vs Italy and Ireland vs Italy) good displays will be vital as rivalries develop.

14 ISSUE 51 HARLEQUINS

Nice try. Not a phrase we’re familiar with.

Everyone loves a trier, right? Not when it comes to hospitality. And certainly not when it’s your client’s enjoyment, not to mention your reputation on the line. Keith Prowse is the leader in official experiences at the world’s premier venues, such as , Kia Oval and Wimbledon. When you book with us you’re in safe hands, from enquiry to experience and beyond, because we only ever offer official, guaranteed. You could say that both on and off the field, where others try, we succeed.

To book your experience please call 0845 415 0633 or visit keithprowse.co.uk

Experience is everything.

www.rugbyclub.biz 15 SIX NATIONS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

Rugby Club Magazine takes a look at the team’s prospects ahead of this year’s tournament. England There have been positive signs from the England set–up over the past year with performances looking increasingly cohesive. However some disappointing results over the Summer and early Autumn Internationals have taken some of the wind out of their sales meaning good results as well as performances will be vital in building momentum for the World Cup. France Not unusually, the French have suffered from a lack of consistency in recent competitions yet still pose a threat when at the top of their game. If they cut back on their rotation as they look to consolidate their first XV they will have a great chance in this Championship. Wales The Autumn Internationals were a disappointment for Wales but Coach has put together a side capable of competing with the best sides in the World. There are question marks over their strength in depth but their first XV is still as strong as any in the competition. Ireland Having won the title last season Ireland will be determined to retain the trophy this time around. With stiff opposition it will prove to be a tall task but with both France and England coming to Ireland they should be there or there abouts going into the final two fixtures. Scotland Scotland’s performances in recent years have generally been disappointing and they have struggled to implement a style of play which allows their team to develop. They have now adopted a more open approach and were rewarded with promising displays in Autumn. It is still a work in progress so expect them to be inconsistent here but they should provide their fans with plenty of entertainment. Italy Italy have found it difficult to bridge the class gap between themselves and the other sides in the competition and face a battle to avoid the wooden spoon. Having two or three players have a breakout tournament whilst competing in the majority of their fixtures should be seen as a triumph for the Italians. There have been positive signs from the England set–up over the past year with performances looking increasingly cohesive.

16 ISSUE 51 FARNBOROUGH FARNBOROUGH

Tilebarn Close /// www.farnboroughrugby.co.uk /// Founded 1915

First established in 1915, Farnborough Rugby Club is based at Tilebarn Close in and their first team currently compete in the Snows Group Hants 1 League. They are led by the team of President Robin Moses and Chairman Gary Allcock and the club has made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance.

This season it would be fair to say that they They run rugby for boys and girls from U7s to U12s as well as boys rugby from hey are committed to playing an have not perhaps enjoyed the start to the T U13s to Colts. It is important for any side important role in the local community and season that they would have liked, having to produce their own talent, particularly in make their facilities available to a variety compiled a record of 2 wins and 8 defeats of other sporting clubs including Rushmoor from their first 10 matches. This has left them the current financial climate and this is an area that they appear to have covered. It Sunday Football Club, the Rushmoor sitting in the bottom half of the table with 11 branch of the Disabled Sports Association, points on the board. will certainly be exciting to see how their Farnham Knights American Football Club juniors develop over the coming years. There is still plenty of the campaign left to and the Dolphins Sub-Aqua Club among In order to help these players to make others. play however and a good run of results would see them quickly climb up the table. As long the sometimes difficult transition into the senior game they also run a 2nd team. The social side of the club is considered as they are able to retain their current group to be a vital aspect of the work that they of players and perhaps make one or two This allows them to give them experience of adult level rugby even if they are not do and Farnborough pride themselves on quality additions they should be in with a being a friendly and welcoming club that good chance of doing so. yet considered ready for first team action which can be an important step in the encourages anyone with an interest in the development process. game to get involved. Farnborough is not a club to focus solely upon their senior section however and this Another benefit of having more than one is reflected by the fact that side is that it allows the first XV to benefit they also have a thriving from far greater strength in depth. If they youth set up. This part of are ever left short on numbers through the club looks to provide injury or work commitments they have youngsters from the local the option of calling players up with a area with an opportunity to limited amount of disruption. play the game in a safe and There is much to admire about the work enjoyable environment that Farnborough have been doing lately whilst helping them to and hopefully they will continue in the reach their full potential. same manner for many years to come.

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www.rugbyclub.biz 17 HARLEQUINS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG HARLEQUINS

The /// www.quins.co.uk /// Founded 1866

Harlequins, or Harlequin FC to give the club its full title, was founded in 1866 and is recognised around the world. The Club is a founding member of the RFU and boasts six current international players, including the England captain, .

In 2016, the Twickenham based club will celebrate its 150th anniversary. During the last 148 years, Harlequins has contributed generously to the development of the game both on and off the pitch.

The club has a reputation for producing and attracting players who have been major innovators, for example Ronnie Poulton-Palmer, Adrian Stoop and William Wavell Wakefield in the first quarter of the 20th century. Over a century later, the current generation of players in , , Nick Evans and Luke Wallace among others are taking this style to new levels.

The club’s influence extends beyond England via a network of affiliate clubs around the world. They include Harlequins Pretoria, Kenya Harlequins, Abu Dhabi Harlequins, Harlequins and Dallas Harlequins to name but a few.

For the last 51 years, Harlequins has called the Twickenham Stoop home and has played over 625 matches, winning 418.

A part of the club’s vibrant history is its long affiliation with the home of English Rugby, . Harlequins has played over 1,000 matches at Twickenham Stadium having called it home from 1909 until 1963.

Stand out memories from Harlequins’ time at Twickenham Stadium include winning the first four Sevens tournaments from 1926, the John Player Cup and of course the Aviva Premiership in 2012.

While Harlequins were based at Twickenham Stadium, attendances were poor. There are numerous stories of players having to reclaim the ball from the stands by themselves when it was kicked out of play!

In 2008, Harlequins reignited its relationship with the home of rugby and became the first English side to regularly take club rugby matches to larger stadiums and attract tens of thousands to watch domestic rugby during

18 ISSUE 51 HARLEQUINS TWITTER /// @QuinsRugbyUnion

Images courtesy of PPAUK/Harlequins

www.rugbyclub.biz 19 HARLEQUINS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

a the road in an effort to expand in a pink and blue quartered grand and Harlequins’ supporter base and . spectacular day out. put on a great family day out to inspire supporters to come to the The inaugural fixture saw Mark Evans, Harlequins’ Chief Twickenham Stoop and watch the Harlequins play the defending Executive at the time, sought exciting and vibrant rugby that Zurich Premiership Champions, inspiration from the type of Harlequins produce week in week Tigers. In an exciting spectacles French teams, like out. match, the league points were Stade Francais, produced in shared as the match concluded in one off fixtures. Among the ideas was the a 26-26 draw. production of a unique charity With close proximity to match shirt to be worn by Of course the spectacle off the Twickenham it was decided Harlequins. In its first year, the field was equally exciting, with to bring a match chosen charity was Cancer pyrotechnic displays and musical across Research and Harlequins played entertainment pre-match. HARLEQUINS TWITTER /// @QuinsRugbyUnion HARLEQUINS

“In an exciting match, the league points were shared as the match concluded in a 26-26 draw.”

www.rugbyclub.biz 21 HARLEQUINS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

The attendance for this match was capped at 55,000, but when Big Game 2 came around in December 2009, a then world record crowd for a club match (76,716) witnessed another dramatic match, this time with London Wasps’ John Hart scoring the winning try six minutes from time.

Off the field X Factor’s and Jamie Archer were joined by an ABBA tribute band; operatic singers also performed. An eagle provided the unique match ball delivery by flying with the ball to the half way line. December 2010 saw another London clash, as visited the home of English rugby. Harlequins legend delivered the ball on a hovercraft, while entertainment was provided by Pineapple Dance Studio and X Factor’s and Rebecca Ferguson, with Jamie Archer returning for another performance.

In another nail biting match, George Lowe raced through in the final minutes to score the winning try and secure Harlequins’ first Big Game win. A third unique match shirt was produced, this time with Help a London Child the beneficiary.

By Big Game 4 the popularity of the Christmas fixture had increased so much so that a new world record club attendance was one again achieved as an 82,000 sell-out crowd filledTwickenham Stadium.

Right to Play were the chosen charity and performances from Killer Queen, operatic singer Camilla Kerslake and X Factor finalists and made for another great occasion, despite Saracens running out eventual winners on the day.

London Irish returned to Twickenham as the opponents for Big Game 5 and another sell-out crowd of 82,000 witnessed the festive fixture. Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity were the charity with one of their patients delivering the match ball to the centre of the pitch.

Lawson provided the pre-match entertainment which preceded an excellent Harlequins victory. Last year Big Game 6 was considered the best yet. Performances from X Factor winner and finalist Luke Friend were complemented by a performance from the Military Wives.

This year, in Big Game 7, Harlequins take on defending Aviva Premiership Champions on December 27th kick-off 16:30. With tickets selling faster than ever before, this match is set to be the biggest and best yet.

Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity are once again the chosen beneficiary and a number of exciting off field activities are planned, from a hedge maze and ferris wheel, to a traditional German Um Pah band. The pre-match entertainment act is due to be confirmed soon as another sell-out crowd is expected for a club rugby fixture like no other.

With the conclusion of the 2014 QBE Autumn Internationals, up to 28 current or former internationals from seven different nations could go head to head. Twickenham Stadium the venue for such a fitting fixture. For further information about this year’s Big Game, please visit the Harlequins website www.quins.co.uk.

22 ISSUE 51 HARLEQUINS TWITTER /// @QuinsRugbyUnion HARLEQUINS

www.rugbyclub.biz 23 EPPING UPPER CLAPTON FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG EPPING UPPER CLAPTON Upland Road /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/upperclaptonfootballclub///// Founded 1879

Epping Upper Clapton RFC is a great example of an establishment that is committed to playing an important role in their local community. Rugby Club Magazine caught up with their Chairman Steve Slade to find out more.

He told us, “I have been involved in the Club for approximately 36 years. I joined to improve my playing standard and I also liked the club and the atmosphere. As President (3years) and now Chairman (3 years), we have gone through a major transformation programme over the past 5 years.

We have changed the way we operate; we now run as a business with a Board of Managers, we have improved our playing structure at senior level and have built an All Weather Pitch to enable training to take place in all weathers. We have a solid coaching structure that is developing a young team into a smart, fit team.

We also run sides from U6 – U17’s and have a solid coaching structure in place. This year we are in the process of building a new club house which should be completed mid-2015 and have changed our name to; Epping Upper Clapton Rugby Club. The mood here is very good, everyone is excited that the teams are playing good rugby and there is progress on the development of the new club house.

Youth rugby is very important; it is the future of the club. We are building the new club house and facilities for them. Integrating these players is the most difficult area for us and we have failed on many occasions. We do have in place a structure to improve the transition and this seems to be working.

24 ISSUE 51 EPPING UPPER TWITTER /// @EppingUCRFC CLAPTON

We are a Community Club (CASC). We have soccer, netball and local schools using our facilities during the week. We also run a girls section and we hope this will improve this once we have the new club house in place.

The club has produced many quality players over the years I have been a member. We have had players play for England and the Counties i.e. Middlesex and and a number of players have gone onto bigger clubs such as; Blackheath, Roslyn Park, Bedford and most recently Ealing Trail Finders.

Our ambitions are to improve our playing standards and move up the leagues. This will be done by attracting new players and developing our existing youth players. We want to have a viable sports club that is financially sustainable that offers sports and educational facilities for the benefit of all people in the area.”

www.rugbyclub.biz 25 BURNHAM ON CROUCH FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG BURNHAM ON CROUCH

Dengie Hundred Sports Centre /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/burnhamoncrouchrufc

Burnham on Crouch is a club that is committed to playing a vital role in their community, Particularly in relation to the development of young players. Rebecca Diss, the Club’s Deputy Youth Chair took the time to tell us more about the work that they do in this area. Karen Sadler - Youth Secretary

“I’ve been involved for 8 years, first coming when my two boys wanted to She told us, “Youth Rugby is try rugby. I’ve had 4 years as secretary to Youth Chair, firstly discovering the feeder of the senior teams just how much was involved in running a rugby club from the Youth side, and even the youngest little 3 year old is the potential future discipline, fixtures, first aid etc. etc. I mostly take minutes at the Youth of our club so we nurture and Committee meetings and then remind the Chairman what he is meant to progress each and every child be doing! that comes on our pitches.

It is essential that we have a The mood here is exciting and inspirational for the ladies/girls teams and strong youth section to enable training, very busy with youth training both on the pitch and in the classroom the senior side of the club to and very keen to develop the younger age groups by encouraging new continue to thrive. Our youth children to join. section is growing almost weekly, with some of our mini and midis squads having two Youth development is exceptionally important to us here, not only is it or three teams. To see the club recognised that the sport is inspirational to the youngsters but the youth are growing in this way is fantastic the adult players of the future for the club. They are encouraged to support and incredibly rewarding to all the seniors by watching their games, the senior members/players help coach the youth and this then leads the youth to follow in their footsteps.”

26 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @BURNHAMRUFC BURNHAM ON CROUCH

www.rugbyclub.biz 27 BURNHAM ON CROUCH FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG the volunteers who ensure that Honorary Secretary Jenny Burnham Rugby club is what Nelson spoke of the club’s set it is – a family, who are having up. fun playing the most incredible sport. “We recently held a primary schools tournament and We ensure that the youth section attendees were impressed by is fully committed to upholding how well it was hosted. We the RFU Core Values, through provided a tuck shop and hot their coaches, supporters and food which received lots of the players themselves. We positive comments from parents have just launched a new “girls and teachers. only” session on a Tuesday evening and we have had a We try to use the facilities as much huge uptake, with over 30 girls as possible to encourage visiting attending last week in the wind teams to stay and socialise after and the rain! We are planning an games – we usually provide a in house tag tournament to bring hot meal for players, we have together as many age groups as TV’s in the clubhouse showing possible in December. sports and a bar area. We would love to make improvements to The Youth Chair works closely the facilities but as we don’t own with the Chairman of the club them (they are owned by Maldon to ensure that the Colts are District Council and form part of a progressed into the senior leisure centre complex) we aren’t section appropriately and at a able to. time that is right for the player. The Youth Chair liaises with the We currently run a kitchen Colts and Senior team coaches and club shop at weekends to make them aware of players that provide some revenue for who are nearing their transition to ensure that they are moved at the correct time for each player.

Rebecca went on to tell us about the role they play in the community, saying, “Without a shadow of a doubt, Burnham rugby club is totally supportive of Burnham as a town and as a community. Many teams and committee members ensure that they attend important events within the town, including Remembrance Parade, charitable events and many others.

The youth section supported Maldon District Council when they set up their “Sport in the Sunshine” day in May. The club set up a 7s tournament which anybody could join in from the club or the community as a whole. We provided a bbq and snacks and sweets. It was a fantastic event which drew people in.

The Club also host a Fun day which is always incredibly well attended, not only by club members but by many people from Burnham and the surrounding area. Hundreds of people attend to join in the fun!”

28 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @BURNHAMRUFC BURNHAM ON CROUCH

Jim Kelly - 2nd XV Team Manager

“Sunday mornings with the youth section is always buzzing, the club place a great importance on the youth section and there are currently seven players in the second team who have sons and/or daughters playing at various levels within the club.

As second team captain, watching the younger players learning from the "more experienced" gentlemen is the most rewarding aspect. Losing players to the Firsts at lunchtime on match day is "challenging".

I've been playing about twenty years now. I was told by the then First team captain that Tuesday night training was non- contact and there was no other amateur men's sports teams in the Dengie; he lied on both counts, bless him.”

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the club. If we were able to run our clubhouse and bar independently we could do a lot more for the club through social Jonathan Beale – U8s coach and senior player functions and events.” “I have been a member for just over 21 years. I was invited by friends and She also spoke of their loved it so much that I started playing. I have done coaching for about 6 challenges and ambitions, saying, “We only have 8 years years. Looking after 12 plus 7 year olds is fairly challenging, but seeing left on our lease at Millfields. them succeed and smile makes it very rewarding. Our biggest challenge is not knowing what will happen to the The atmosphere here is the same as it always is...... fun, cheerful and club when this lease expires. sociable. Every club has its issues, but Burnham Rugby Club is very sociable The next few years will be tough as it is difficult to make and gets over any problems. plans for improvements and developments when the club Youth rugby is an integral part of the club. Without the youth coming through, may lose its facilities in the not we would not have enough players for 2 senior teams. They come down to too distant future. training with the seniors every week and being a small social club, most of We want to continue to grow the seniors know the youth players anyway.” our youth section, build on our new girls and ladies section with a view to having ladies and girls contact teams and also to see some of our current youth players go into the 1st XV and 2nd XV teams.”

30 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @BURNHAMRUFC BURNHAM ON CROUCH

“I’ve been involved here for over 20 years and find the appreciation from the kids (team) as well as the parents very rewarding.”

Debbie Smith - U11/12s Manager

www.rugbyclub.biz 31 TREHARRIS PHOENIX FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG TREHARRIS PHOENIX

Forest Road /// www.treharrisrfc.mywru.co.uk/ ///

Treharris Phoenix RFC play their home games on Forest Road in Merthyr Tydfil and their first team currently competes in Division 3 East Central B of the SWALEC National League. They are led by President Dai Harvard who is supported by Secretary Karl Edwards and the club has made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance.

They have made a storming start to their current league campaign, having put together a record of 6 wins and only 1 defeat from their opening 7 matches. This sees them sitting proudly atop the table with 28 points on the board and a 2 point gap to their nearest rivals.

This should provide them with the perfect platform from which to build as they look ahead towards the rest of the campaign. So long as they are able to keep up their recent form they will have a great chance of making top spot their own.

One of the highlights of the team’s performances has been the attacking brand of rugby

that they have managed to potential to provide them produce. This is reflected with a valuable source of by the fact that they have additional revenue. already racked up 236 points at a rate of more A key reason for the team’s than 30 per game, making impressive performances them the top scorers in the has been the try scoring form league. of exciting duo Danyl Davies and Steven Parry who have This has certainly ensured scored 22 tries between that any supporters them in just 11 games. They attending their matches will be hoping to continue have been well entertained this form over the remainder and should encourage more of the campaign. of the local community to get behind the side in the In order to be successful future. This in turn has the on the field it is important to

32 ISSUE 51 TREHARRIS TWITTER /// @trePhoenix PHOENIX have a reliable place kicker and Treharris appear to have this area covered. Ross Jones has been in fine form with the boot having already proven this year that he can be relied to come up with the goods under pressure.

This is not a club to focus solely upon their senior section however as they also have a number of youth sides in place. These team’s look to provide youngsters from the local area with an opportunity to play the game in a safe and enjoyable environment whilst helping them to reach their full potential.

It is vital for any side looking to be successful to produce their own talent and Treharris clearly recognise this. It will certainly be exciting to see how their juniors can develop over the coming years as they look to transition into the senior game.

Treharris Phoenix’s superb recent form is representative of all the hard work that has been put into making them a success in recent times. Hopefully they will be able to continue in the same manner over the coming years and Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck for the rest of the campaign.

www.rugbyclub.biz 33 SYSTON FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG SYSTON

Barkby Road /// www.systonrfc.co.uk /// Founded 1887

First established in 1887, Syston RFC started out as a small local team on the Northern side of Leicester where they played for more than a century before moving to Queniborough in 1989. They have a strong Committee in place, led by Chairman John Brindley and President Tony Edgely.

Head Coach Chris Tarbuck oversees their coaching This year we added a development side to the club set up which focuses upon helping players to thrive on with the idea of keeping our U18s colts playing and its original core values of encouraging players from the offering a way back to rugby or new start up coaching on a Thursday night with Andy Ward/Dave Manship, 2 ages of 6 to sixty to participate in the game. ex-players. This group has now gathered momentum At present they have over 150 Senior Members between with touch rugby and coaching available. the ages of 17-60, as well as 250 Children Members. The mood at the club is very good. We now boast They are able to offer excellent facilities with 5 pitches, 8 mini pitches and 6 changing rooms. senior numbers on Thursdays at training of 90+. On the pitch, having been relegated last year from National Club Representative Phillip Smith took the time to tell us 3 we have bounced back. Presently after more about how the club is getting along at the moment, 10 games we sit second having lost 1 game. Former Leicester Tiger and Head Coach Chris Tarbuck and saying, “I joined Syston as a 12 year old playing junior rugby, progressed to colts and then into Syston 1st Backs Coach Craig Hewitt are leading our push back team where I made 501 appearances. I then moved into up at our 1st attempt. coaching bringing an age group side through from U10s to U19s. There are now 15 of that age group still playing The second and third teams sit top of the here with 6 in the 1st team. Premier and Division 1 with the development side

34 ISSUE 51 SYSTON TWITTER /// @SYSTON RFC

also progressing well and bringing through our young lads. Our colts and U17s stand alone in their respected age grades having at least 20 registered players at each age.

Our Minis/Juniors go from strength to strength from U6s to U16s boasting 250 players. We presently have 10-15 players in the Tigers Development Squads between the ages U13 - U16. Over the years Syston have provided many players for and various England ages.

Thanks go to our main sponsor Taff Chapman from C& E International Plant who for many years have supported the club both on and of the pitch [both sons play for the club]. Thanks also to Mini Chairman and sponsor Neil Cavnor for all their hard work on and off the pitch [Also both sons playing]. I’d also like to thank all our small sponsors who are just as important to keeping the club going forwards.

The biggest challenges for us come from recruitment. As we do not pay players we rely on our own development and players joining of their own free will. It will be important to train more coaches for mini/ juniors to help develop our own future players and we also need to maintain our facilities at their current high standard. We are ambitious and want to push on to get promotion and compete at the highest level possible with our present structure.”

www.rugbyclub.biz 35 MARKET BOSWORTH FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG MARKET BOSWORTH Cadeby Lane /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/marketbosworthrfc /// Founded 1887

Market Bosworth RFC is an amateur club based on Cadeby Lane in just outside the historic town of Market Bosworth. They currently compete in the North League and they are led by the team of Chairman David Shakeshaft and President John Ward and they have made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance. perhaps make one or two whilst helping them to reach quality additions they will have their full potential. a good chance of mounting a o far this season push for promotion. It is important for any team S looking to be successful to they have been in fine form, having compiled a One of the standout features produce their own talent, league record of 5 wins of the Market Bosworth set- particularly in the current and 3 defeats from their 8 up is the outstanding youth financial climate and this is matches. This sees them section that they have in an area that they appear to place. This part of the club have covered. It will sitting just behind the early pace setters with 28 points looks to provide young players certainly be on the board. from the local area with an opportunity to play the game This should provide then in a safe and enjoyable team with the perfect environment platform from which to build as they look ahead towards the rest of the campaign. So long as they can retain their current group of players and

36 ISSUE 51 MARKET TWITTER /// @Bosworth_rugby BOSWORTH

exciting to see how their juniors can develop over the coming years.

In order to help them to make the sometimes difficult transition into the senior game they also have a number of additional sides running. This allows them to give players experience of adult level rugby even if they are not yet considered ready for first team action which can be an important step in the development process.

Another benefit of having extra teams is that it allows the first XV to benefit from far greater strength in depth. If they are ever left short on numbers through injury or work commitments they have the option of calling players up with a limited amount of disruption.

Market Bosworth’s promising start to the season is a reflection of all the hard work that they put in during the summer months. Rugby Club Magazine would like to take this opportunity to wish them the best of luck for the rest of the campaign.

www.rugbyclub.biz 37 ST JACQUES FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG ST JACQUES KGV Playing Fields /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/stjacquesrfc///

Competing for the first time in the UK League System, St Jacques RFC has made a fine start to the new season. Rugby Club Magazine caught up with Club Representative James Mroch to find out more about the good work they’ve been doing.

players in Guernsey, including helping to coach He said, “I have personally been involved the youth players, as well as getting them with the club for 4 seasons now. I was playing involved with the club.” rugby for the local youth academy, and was Integration nearing the end of my time with the Academy as I was 18. I had played against St Jacques “Because St Jacques has a lot of on a few occasions, including in a memorable young players, and because of the Christmas game where after the game which size of Guernsey it is natural that often was played in horrific conditions, we had our players know many of the younger Christmas dinner together and played ‘games’ players who are coming through. etc. Therefore when the opportunity to come Therefore this greatly assists the down and get involved with the club was offered transition to senior rugby. to me, I took the chance.” St Jacques is a very close club, The Role with a strong family feel and is very accepting of new players no “Firstly I am a player for the 1st team squad, which obviously comes with its challenges, but matter their ability. Therefore new away from the pitch I perform a few different jobs. young players tend to fit in very Most challenging is finding enough time to write quickly and we always try to make match reports, communicate with the local media them feel very welcome, this greatly assists the transition as and updating the website, just after games etc. obviously a player makes that However the most rewarding is seeing the transition smoothly and quickly if they feel comfortable and excellent coverage that our club gets in the media now, and how our image and reputation is welcome.” growing within the community. People now want Community to know what’s happening with St Jacques, and are excited about the club.” “St Jacques is very much a Atmosphere community “The mood is very upbeat at the moment, as club, and currently we are unbeaten and top of the league, is about much more so naturally everyone is very excited. As this is our first ever season playing in the UK League than just a rugby club. system, the whole club is very excited and it has really helped improve our club already. We have Our home ground is always had quite a good following, but now it is growing all the time, with more people wanting to the King George come and watch home fixtures, get involved in events etc.” the Fifth

Youth Memorial Playing “Youth rugby is very important to St Jacques, as over the last few seasons we have heavily Fields (KGV), which is an recruited youth players who were turning 18 etc. excellent A very large majority of our squad is aged under local multi 23, and as we don’t have our own youth system, sports we have been trying to build bridges with the local facility. The youth rugby academy. As St Jacques continues KGV is to develop over the coming years, we would hope more than a we can help more with the development of young

38 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @StJacquesRFC HARLEQUINSST JACQUES

sports facility however, it has a thriving community hub of social members, disabled sports members, Darts, Pool & Euchre (a traditional Guernsey card game) leagues, and St Jacques members are very much at the heart of that.

We try to get involved with the club, supporting in various different ways. The members are very supportive of St Jacques and support us on match days quite avidly, and we are grateful for their support. As a club we accept new members, no matter their background and whether they play rugby or not they will be accepted into the club in a friendly warm manner.” Facilities “The KGV is not owned by St Jacques, but is owned by the people of Guernsey. We are tenants of the facility, and are very lucky to have access to the facilities. The KGV is currently undergoing a massive redevelopment, and it will be the premier sport facility in Guernsey once complete.

We now have a full-size 4g Artificial pitch which we train on, and can be used for matches if the main

www.rugbyclub.biz 39 ST JACQUES FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

Images Courtesy of Guernsey Sports Photography

40 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @StJacquesRFC ST JACQUES

pitch is heavily waterlogged businesses are coming on the highest level possible for ensuring no game will get board as sponsors. the foreseeable future. cancelled. The teams we host have nearly all given We have some very Over the next five years positive feedback of their substantial sponsors now, we will be looking to build experience, particularly as whom are excellent and infrastructure around we are keen to keep the without them we could not the club to help continue traditions of rugby very much play in the UK leagues. our development with a a part of the experience to It’s not just financially our professional outlook and the KGV. However the new sponsors have got involved attitude. Ideally we are changing room block which with St Jacques, they have looking to gain promotion is due to be built can’t come really got behind the team into the Hampshire County quick enough, as the current with pregame lunches Leagues then who knows. facilities are quite small.” before cheering on the team from the side-lines, and I think although some time Commercial celebrating with the team off, getting the club into the “St Jacques is very present after matches etc. However regional leagues is a real on both Facebook and we are always looking aim. If we continue to develop Twitter, and is slowly for new ways to generate the squad, work hard and managing to develop the sponsorship, and to develop bring in new talented players brand and get more people our commercial presence.” to keep everyone competing involved. Never before for their shirt, I think it could Challenges/Ambitions have we had such a diverse be possible. We would also following, from not just in “The biggest challenges like to re-enter a 2ND XV Guernsey but from around I think we could face is into the Channel Islands the world. This along with ensuring we continue to League, which will provide regular positive media improve and ensuring we an opportunity to develop coverage is helping to build are running a financially players and feed them into and develop our commercial sustainable club, which will the 1st XV.” image, and more and more ensure we can compete at

Images Courtesy of Guernsey Sports Photography

www.rugbyclub.biz 41 ABERGAVENNEY TWITTER /// @Abergavennyrfc FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG ABERGAVENNY Bailey Park /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/abergavennyrfc //// Founded 1875

First established in 1875, Abergavenny RFC is based at Bailey Park in Monmouthshire and they currently compete in Division 2 East of the WRU SWALEC Leagues. They are led by the team of President Alun Griffiths OBE and Chairman Huw Beaven and are looking to progress under their guidance. So long as they are able to retain their In order to ensure that these players enjoy current group of players and perhaps make a smooth transition into the senior game At first team level they are looking to bounce back this time around having one or two quality additions they will have a they also have a 2nd team running. This endured a disappointing campaign last good chance of improving on last season’s allows them to provide youngsters with performances which would represent season. They ended up finishing in the experience of adult level rugby even if they bottom half of the table as they failed to progress for them. are not yet considered ready for first team action which can be an important step in ever really find the consistency needed to be successful. Abergavenny is not a club to focus solely the development process. upon their senior section however as they The team has been working hard during also have a number of youth sides in place. Another benefit of having an additional the off-season though in order to ensure These teams look to provide young players side is that it allows the first XV to benefit that they are able to do better this time out. from the local area with an opportunity from far greater strength in depth. If they This set them up to begin the campaign to play the game in a safe and enjoyable ever left short on numbers through injury environment whilst helping them to reach or work commitments they have the option with plenty of confidence. their full potential. of calling players up with a limited amount So far they have made a steady start of disruption. It is important for any side to be able to as well managing to win 2 of their first 6 matches, losing the other 4. This has left produce their own talent if they want to There is much to admire about the set up them sitting in a mid-table position with 11 be successful, particularly in the current that Abergavenny currently has in place points on the board. financial climate and this is an area that they and this is thanks to the hard work that their appear to have covered. Their coaching Committee has put into the club. Hopefully This should provide them with a platform staff are confident that they’ve a number they will be able to continue in the same from which to build and they will look to of juniors involved with the potential for a manner for many years to come and climb the table as the team gels together. bright future. everyone at Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck.

42 ISSUE 51 OLDHAM ST TWITTER /// @OldhamStAnnes ANNES OLDHAM ST ANNES

As Kyle Eastmond faces the world champions, the All Blacks this weekend, the former St Helens back, and now Bath centre, we can look at a club where it all began for Kyle, and many other famous players that learnt their trade as a youngster.

Higginshaw Road /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/oldhamstannes ///

The Saints can add to this list of former Under 18s. It’s a club rich in history t all started at a club nestled professionals and can look to a bright I that can boast the development of future with the club sporting players at in the heart of the Pennines, in players such as Mike Ford – Bath a proud town with rugby roots as a few Scholarships. Just RU Head Coach, Wigan, Leigh, below these scholarships, in 2014, the strong and as pronounced as the Oldham and Castleford, Leo old cotton mill chimneys that were Saints under 13s were crowned the Casey – Oldham & Featherstone, Cup winners in a pulsating once a common site around the Steve Molloy – Warrington, borough. That town is Oldham, game against Leigh Miners held at , Sheffield, Featherstone & the Stobart Stadium. It was a fantastic and the club is Oldham St Annes Oldham, Iestyn Harris – Salford ARLFC. achievement for the young team who Head Coach, Warrington, Leeds, have been developed and guided by and Wales RU and Matt The Saints operate one of the former Giant, Oldham and Calland – Featherstone, Bradford, Rochdale player, Neil Flanagan. biggest Youth Sections in the Hull & Rochdale in the past, to Northwest with over 300 plus name a few. children playing from Under 7s to With Neil’s dedication and knowledge, fused together with the help of the teams volunteers, they have gelled this side into a successful one and one that has everybody in the rugby world talking about. It’s a success celebrated by everyone associated with St Annes, but the club measures it success firmly on how many players they can get to play the game of , and more importantly, how they enjoy their experience. The buzz word around the clubhouse is enjoyment, and it’s shared by every coach and volunteer that wears the famous green and gold.

With the youth of the club thriving, it bodes well for the Under 18s and the Open Age sides the club puts out. It was only this season that the Under

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44 ISSUE 51 OLDHAM ST TWITTER /// @OldhamStAnnes ANNES

18s were crowned North West Counties Division One champions, edging out local rivals Waterhead into second place. This marvellous achievement was masterminded by former Rochdale and Oldham player Bob Marsden and his son Ben, a former St Annes player.

It’s these local links, that is a backbone that runs throughout the club, and it is something Oldham St Annes are proud of. The ‘Made in Oldham’ theme continues to first team level that operates out of the Conference in Division Two.

In charge of the first team is former Keighley and Oldham centre Mick Fogerty, assisted by former Oldham and Great Britain player Mick Worrall. It was a seventh place finish for the Saints last time out, and in 2015 they have their eye on promotion to Division One. It’s an achievable goal considering the talent that is coming through the club at present.

With the playing side looking positive, good artists need a good canvas to paint on, and the Saints were awarded a grant of £87,500 to carry out vital drainage on three pitches. This would allow the club to utilize for the first time in 2015 a third pitch based at the club. This grant was made up from Sport England and topped up with further funding from the RFL. Once this work has been finished, the pitches will be that of professional standard, allowing its players of young and old, to ply their trade on a surface fit for their talents. The club would like to go on record in thanking everyone and the organisations that made this development happen.

Next year looks to be an even better season for the Saints, and with a lot more hard work, dedication and devotion, there is no reason 2015 cannot be the Year of the Saint.

www.rugbyclub.biz 45 BOWDON TWITTER /// @BowdonRugby FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG BOWDON Clay Lane /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/bowdon /// Founded 1877

First established in 1877, Bowdon RUFC play their home games on Clay Lane in and their first team currently competes in the South Lancs/Cheshire Division One. They are led by the team of Chair Tom Sloan and President Roy Kitchiner and the club has made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance. from the local area with an opportunity to play the game in Bowdon itself is situated in Timperley, just 5 minutes a safe and enjoyable environment whilst helping them to away from Manchester Airport and the club takes pride in reach their full potential. welcoming everyone, be it players, spectators or social It is important for any side to be able to produce their own members. They have a Marquee Room and a Committee Room which they make available for members of the public talent, particularly in the current financial climate and this to hire. is an area they appear to have covered. Coaching staff overseeing their juniors are confident they’ve plenty of talent This helps to demonstrate the club’s commitment to playing currently involved with the potential for a bright future. an important role in the local community. Additionally, it also has the potential to provide them with a valuable source of In order to help these players to make the sometimes additional revenue. difficult transition into the senior game they also have a number of additional sides running. This allows them to give This season, it would be fair to say that their first team has not put together the start to the campaign that they youngsters experience of adult level rugby even if they are would have liked. In their 15 league matches they have put not yet considered ready for first team action which can be together a record of 4 wins, 2 draws and 9 defeats which an important step in the development process. has left them sitting in the bottom half of the table with 24 points on the board. Another benefit of having so many teams is that it allows the first XV to benefit from far greater strength in depth. If There is still plenty of the campaign left to play however and they are ever left short on numbers through injury or work so long as Bowdon are able to retain their current group of commitments they have the option of calling players up with a limited amount of disruption. players and perhaps make one or two quality additions they should be in in with a good chance of climbing the table. There is a confidence amongst the players that they have Although Bowdon’s form in the first half of the season has not been great this should not take away from the good the quality to do so. Bowdon is not a club to focus solely upon their senior work that has been getting done at the club. Rugby Club section however and they also have a thriving youth set- Magazine wishes them the best of luck for the future. up. This part of their system looks to provide young players

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46 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @PenalltaRugby1 PENALLTA

PENALLTA

Based at Hengoed in Caerphilly, Penallta RFC currently competes in Division 1 East of the SWALEC National Leagues. They are led by Chairman Gareth Davies who is supported by Treasurer Scott Lowe and are looking to progress under their guidance.

Sue Noakes Leisure Centre /// www.penalltarfc.mywru.co.uk /// Founded 1952

First established by 1952, the club was set up by a group of miners from Penallta Colliery and played its first fixture the same year. Their colours are blue and gold and they are affectionately known by their supporters as the ‘Pitmen’ and are very proud of their mining heritage.

They became a full a member of the in 2004 and have enjoyed a considerable amount of success since then, winning Divisions 3, 4 and 5 South East as well as the coveted Silver Ball Trophy in 2005. Their most recent success at senior level came when they won the Swalec Plate in 2011-12.

This season, their senior side has enjoyed a storming start to their league campaign having managed to win their first 7 fixtures. This sees them sitting top of the league with 34 points on the board.

This should provide the side with a perfect platform from which to build as they look ahead towards the rest of the campaign. So long as they can retain their current group of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions then they should be in with a good chance of mounting a serious title challenge.

Penallta is a club that is committed to playing an important role in their local community, providing as many players as possible with an opportunity to play the game and this is reflected by the fact that they also run a women’s team.

Up to now, it would be fair to say that they have not enjoyed the start to campaign that they would have liked, having drawn 1 and lost 8 of their matches. This leaves them at the bottom of the table with 2 points and

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“They managed to win they will be keen to get a win on the board as soon as possible to give them a much needed confidence boost. the WRU Youth Cup at the Penallta is not a club that focuses solely upon senior rugby however and this is reflected by the fact that they .” also have a superb youth section. This part of the club looks to provide young players from the local area with an opportunity to play the game in a safe and enjoyable environment whilst helping them to reach their full potential.

It is important for any side to be able to produce their own talent, particularly in the current financial climate and this is an area that they appear to have covered. It will certainly be exciting to see how their juniors can progress over the coming years.

They gave a glimpse of the potential that they have last year when they managed to win the WRU Youth Cup at the Millennium Stadium. Led by Captain Jack Condy, they produced a superb display in the final to overcome Gilfach Goch by 27 points to 18 in a great demonstration of the skill levels in youth rugby in Wales.

The trophy was presented by Wales internationals Andrew Coombs and and everyone at Penallta was rightly proud of this superb achievement. Credit must also go to the Gilfach Goch side that helped to ensure that the final was a great spectacle for supporters.

With their first team thriving and some terrific young talent coming through the ranks Penallta appears to have everything in place for a bright and successful future. Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck.

48 ISSUE 51 HARLEQUINS

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The Rugby Park /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/rochfordhundredrfc /// Founded 1962

Rochford Hundred was the brainchild of John Roden and Ernie Mills and was first discussed in November 1961 when the two met at the White Hart in Hawkwell. John had played at Ilford Wanderers and Ernie was an Old Tottonian so both were keen to play on their own doorstep.

The Club is currently playing in London 2 (North East) and we can look back on over 50 years of activity with considerable satisfaction. Our Youth System The club supports the introduction of rugby to children as young as 2 years old via a fantastic family run business called the Little Scrummers (www.littlescrummers.com). Their aim is to introduce younger children into the game of rugby at an earlier age, by equipping them with tag rugby skills that they can develop later at school or at club level. The business utilises our clubs U17s coach and Schools Liaison Officer Roger Fitz-Patrick to run weekly sessions for over 80 children aged 2-6 year olds, divided into relevant age groups and times.

Roger regularly visits all of our local schools, running sessions introducing rugby to the local community and trying to gain valuable players into our club.

50 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @RochfordRugby HARLEQUINSROCHFORD HUNDRED

From under 6 upwards the club provides rugby teams running through all the age groups covering boys and girls of all ability giving rugby for all.

Youth rugby plays a key part in developing the 1st XV and the Club. We have generated many quality youth players who have gone on to be successful adult players. We have produced no fewer than 10 England internationals, ranging from U16 to U21 for both girls and boys, covering full honours from schools, colleges, The Fire Brigade and a Scotland U19 representative. Ellie Gatlin, Catherine Pugh and Lucie Wood were all part of the England Womens U20’s squad playing in the Six Nations last season and Lucie is now in the England Elite Squad for this season.

A rising England star and a name to note for the future is Alex Brown, now under a full time contract with in the Premiership, also played his youth rugby at Rochford. This crop of youth talent has no doubt led to the success of the 1st XV and the Club. Our Senior Teams We currently run three regular mens senior sides with an occasional 4th, ladies and Vets team also playing games.

This season our 1st XV will play their rugby in London 2 North East, with promotion to , which is only one league below the National levels, the top priority for the team along with the development of our current young crop of players to achieve this goal and safeguard the clubs future.

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The 2nd XV “The Harts”, play league rugby Last season the U18 Girls came third in the luck as one of the props due to work had to in Division 2 of The Shepherd Neame and Sussex League and the U15 Girls leave, I was again selected for the 1st team Essex Merit Table and have reached the came third in the Kent and Sussex League. and fortunately this is where I stayed for finals of this league several times in the Our U17s had another successful season 24 seasons, in that time I have been vice- last few years, along with reaching the last year winning the Essex League Division captain for 4 seasons then taking over as final of the 2nd XV Essex Cup final in 1 title and being Runners Up in the Essex Captain for 2. 2013. This regular competition provides a Cup. perfect learning environment for developing In all those years I was very fortunate to Our Future and Vision players and getting them ready for 1st team represent Essex County, England Fire rugby. By Colin Wiseman, Club Chairman Service for 9 years; here I played with and against full Internationals, A team and B Our Recent Successes At the age of 18, having never played rugby team players, premiership players, what an In total, we now run over 20 sides and have before, not even at school, they didn’t do absolute joy, even getting a game for the a family driven collective base of players, Rugby at that time, I was persuaded by my British Fire Service. parents, supporters, volunteers and friends next door neighbour to come along to see that total well over 1000 members. if I liked it, well I did, that was back in 1975 When through an injury, not through rugby Of this we have over 450 players across and I’ve been here at Rochford Hundred I might add I was forced to hang up my all age groups across the club including ever since. boots, but I can’t complain I did have a our Mini, Youth and Girls sections which good innings. My two sons by this time are always increasing. This season has I started off playing for the 5th team on were playing youth Rugby at the club, since seen the addition of an Under 13 girl’s team Saturdays and the colts on Sundays until I’ve had the pleasure of watching them play increasing our girls section to 3 sides in I was 19, over the next 7 years it became for our 1st team. Our then Chairman John addition to our Ladies senior side. obvious I wasn’t going to continue as a Drinkwater was looking to stand down so I back I was moved to a prop, I gradually thought well it’s time to put something back The club has received a “Highly worked my way up to play for our 2nd team into the club - I’ll stand there can’t be a lot in Recommended” award by Rochford Council known as the Harts. it. What on earth was I thinking? as part of Citizen of the Year Awards 2013 in the Community Spirit category. The At 25 I got my break due to injuries to one Well here I am now into my 5th season as Awards Committee commented: of the props I was selected for our 1st team, Chair, having never run a business before, what a jump, 2nd team Rugby I didn’t find which is what it is. I’m having to learn all “Rochford Hundred Rugby Club - too hard, now! A big step, harder faster the time, you don’t get everything right but I Outstanding and hardworking volunteers could I manage playing at this level, well do enjoy the role and only hope I get most which make this club successful for all its fortunately I did - just! Remaining there things right, we have some great committee members who enjoy and benefit from it.” for the rest of that season. The following members some for many years, some I’ve season though I was back down to the twisted their arm to join so I can use their The clubs Ladies and Girls coach Peter 2nd’s due to new props joining the club, expertise but all do a fantastic job for us. Turner won the Services to Sport Award well I’d had my chance and liked it and at the Rochford & Castle Point Awards for wanted to get back up there. Our Youth, Mini and Girls sections, all those 2013. The following season again more through coaches, managers, mum’s and dad’s, TWITTER /// @RochfordRugby HARLEQUINSROCHFORD HUNDRED boys and girls giving up their free time U19, U20 and U21, the Blue Bulls (Currie My main role at the club now was created week nights and weekends is fantastic - Cup), South Africa U21 and also South around 4 years ago and it was to cover they do us proud. Africa Students.Captain everything commercially for the club and to assist with moving the club forward with Where do I see us in the next few years, The opportunity came knocking to play modern times. Whatever sport people are obviously in anything you want finance in the Northern Hemisphere where I involved in, for that team or club to function, plays a big part, we do have some fantastic represented , Bracknell, grow and develop there is always a massive sponsors but we can always do with more, London Wasps, Harlequins and London need for support both financially and with I want us to be playing National League Irish. Unfortunately my professional career volunteers assisting in helping that the club Rugby and sustaining our position there, to came to an end, due to injury, after 14 functions as “One Club” from the roots to do that we need to strengthen not only our years and I started coaching, beginning the roof. senior playing squads but also our youth with amateur clubs and then moving on to and mini’s. Even those guys who play starting my own business, Fouche Rugby. To continue with recent successes and to social Rugby; the more people we can get My company works as consultants with the maintain the community feel at Rochford playing Rugby and enjoying the social side RFU, professional and International teams we are constantly seeking to combine of the game the better. on a daily basis as well as representative sponsors and advertising from within the teams and the development of smaller local community and on a corporate level. Rugby has given me many memorable unions through the IRB. This sponsorship and advertising is not times, being able to make great friends not only of interest to rugby enthusiasts as we just from our club but every club, home and Rochford Hundred is a club close to have many social events and facilities that abroad, I have total respect for everyone my heart because in my early days of can cater for client hospitality and general who gives up their own time voluntarily for coaching, they gave me an opportunity and functions. the benefit of the game, Rugby isn’t just a 9 years later I am back almost full circle in game to me, it’s a way of life. a way. The club now has the infrastructure We now have such a range of sponsorship to become a leading club in East England and advertising opportunities available that George Fouche, Director of Rugby delivering National rugby locally in the very everyone from local independent company’s I was born in King Williams Town in South near future. right up to large corporate businesses can Africa and started playing rugby at the age all benefit with prices starting at just £35 for of 5. Throughout school I always played Adam Faherty, Commercial Manager the season. This has allowed us to obtain in representative sides and in six form I and keep on a long term basis a wide represented South Africa schools U19 for Having been involved with the club since I variety of sponsors and advertisers who two years. joined as an 11 year old in 1988, playing are all listed on our website. Should you through the youth ranks up until becoming wish to be sent a brochure, please email At the University of Pretoria at the age of Colts Captain and beginning my senior [email protected] 19, I began playing for the Tuks first team playing career before it was cut short due (Tuks Rugby is the biggest rugby club in to injury, I have held several different roles the world with 72 teams). During my time at within the club. University I also represented the Blue Bulls

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54 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @RochfordRugby ROCHFORD HUNDRED

Our Testimonials Alex Brown –

“Rochford Hundred has always been my home club. It plays a huge part in the reason why I am playing professional rugby now. From mini rugby to seniors, my whole family has been involved and I have benefitted from young and old members alike in the development of my own rugby.

It is a family club, a community club and one that regardless of where my career takes me, will always bring me joy when I go to watch a game there. It is a testament to all its members regardless of ability or age when family members can be seen playing together with siblings and parents on the side-lines cheering them on.

Welcoming new members as well as old, it is a humble club not spoilt by commercial pressure and the epitome of what amateur rugby really is and should be.”

Colin Charvis – Wales and British Lions

“Had a fantastic time at Rochford Hundred. Great cheer and great beer. Hospitality second to none. Just what grass roots, family clubs are all about”

Our Club Details

League – London 2 North East Address – The Rugby Park, Magnolia Road, Hawkwell, Essex, SS4 3AD Telephone – 01702 544021 Website – www.RochfordRugby.com Twitter - @RochfordRugby Facebook.com/RochfordRugby To sponsor the club email – [email protected] To play for the club email – [email protected] To hire the club email – [email protected]

www.rugbyclub.biz 55 PERSHORE FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG PERSHORE Mill Lane /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/pershorerugbyfootballclub ///

First established in 1962, Pershore RFC currently runs 3 senior teams, a ladies section with touch and Minis and Juniors. Their first team competes in the (South) League. Chairman Anthony Perks took the time to tell us more about the club.

He told us, “I first joined the club “After a in 1976 as an impressionable 15 year old, bought to the club by Dr G Preece, my rugby coach at Pershore High School. As rugby was my passion difficult 2013- it was natural that I joined my local club as it was only 1.5m away from where I lived. The group of players that were at the club at that time were 14 season social and made everyone that joined the club very welcome, something that has not changed to this day. Pershore RFC

Since joining Pershore I have been involved with the committee for many years as grounds man, bar chairman, have bounced social secretary, 100 club secretary, 2nd and 3rd team captain and also played 1st team rugby over a number back to being of years.

My current role is the most challenging undertaken within the club. Our both positive previous chairman Robert Willson Taylor sadly passed away in February from cancer and left a huge void at the and buoyant club. Taking on the role as chairman is a massive challenge as the amount of work involved is both challenging, interesting and rewarding, although with the mood with a fantastic committee at the club this has helped ease me into this role. within the After a difficult 2013-14 season Pershore RFC have bounced back to being both positive and buoyant with the mood within the club being as good club being as as it has been for a few years. With ex fly half Tommy Hayes joining the club as player/coach a couple of years ago, he has bought a good as it has belief in players which has seen on field performances improve. been for a few This improvement culminated in Pershore reaching the Midlands Vase Final in 2013-14 which is only two games from playing a final at years.” Twickenham. Unfortunately Pershore lost a very close encounter to Stewarts. This involvement has seen the same improvement this year and we are currently 3rd in the league, the 2nds

56 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @PershoreRFC PERSHORE

are playing well and in the top up for our lower teams which we the New Inn public house in half of their league , the ladies encourage our colts to attend. Pershore to building our own have finished 2nd in their touch club house in 1976, to building league and continue to grow We do regard ourselves as a a further extension in 1992. and improve, whilst the Mini and community club as we visit local We currently have agreed with Junior section are also growing schools promoting both rugby Pershore Horticultural College and improving every year. and Pershore RFC. Our club is to maintain and use a pitch at also available for social functions the college when our pitches The most important areas at for all club members and to hire are unplayable. the club at the moment is our within the local community. We Mini and Junior Section, we also have a close relationship Pershore Club is built on a feel that for our club to survive with Pershore Horticultural floodplain, and was built at a and generate senior players we College with O2 rugby now being height greater than any flood need a strong and healthy junior available at the college along with in the previous 50 years. section, which we are continuing a pitch the club can use when our Unfortunately, over the past 12 to support and build. years we have seen an increase club is flooded. in flooding which has caused an Transition into senior rugby Over the years the name of increase of lost games at the has always been overseen Pershore has received good club. by qualified coaches in both reviews from not only other our junior set up and by our clubs but also officials that In 2003 floods entered the Senior Coaches. The high level clubhouse by 18 inches, and have officiated here. Referees coaching we have at Pershore have often been coerced into again in 2007 when it was has seen colt players at the club staying at the club a little longer above the bar in the clubhouse establish themselves as regular than they perhaps would want. and above the crossbar on the 1st team players. We have Over the past 34 years we have pitch. This resulted in the club recently added a coaching set seen Pershore RFC move from being closed for 8 months while being refurbished. At this time

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[email protected] 0138658 ISSUE 551000 51 WWW.MIDSHIRECOM.CO.UK TWITTER /// @PershoreRFC PERSHORE

we survived due to the loyal support and commitment of both members and the sponsors, which continues to this day. Additional Staff Pershore has many challenges. Reduction in the Tackle high print number of people playing rugby throughout the country has already had an impact at Pershore as 6 - 7 years ago Pershore were running 4 - 5 sides which has now President: Vic Haines dropped to 3 sides, which is a trend with a number of Chairman: Anthony Perks clubs in the North Midlands. There has been an increase in flooding which has seen 7 weeks in the 2012/13 Secretary: Dave Griffiths season lost and 8 weeks in the 2013/14 season lost where the club has not been open which puts massive 1st XV Captain: L. Dolphin costs strain on the clubs finances. Club Coach: T. Grace The clubs ambitions over the next 5 years are to increase Mini and Junior Chairman: all aspects of the club, by recruiting more players which results in more teams, recruiting more Minis and juniors B. Andrews which in the long term will benefit us. We want to have Midshire Communications Ltd a closer rapport with Pershore Horticultural College in Ladies Chairman: F. Bewley the hope that both can support each other, and finally to survive in an increasingly difficult time for rugby clubs. SPONSORS Pershore Rugby Football Club

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Racecourse Road, Pinvin Industrial Estate, Pershore, , WR10 2EY.

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Mayo Road /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/shipstononstourrfc /// Founded 1963

Based in the small market town of Shipston-on-Stour in South Warwickshire, Shipston on Stour RFC is a friendly rugby club currently competing in the Midlands 3 West League. They are led by the team of President Roger Hawkins and Chairman Nick Underwood and the club has made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance.

young players from the local area with an opportunity to The club was first established in 1963 by a group play the game in a safe and of Masters and old boys from enjoyable environment whilst Shipston High School. They helping them to reach their full were a nomadic club in their potential. first season with no pitch of their own as they relied upon It is important for any side to High School facilities to play on be able to produce their own and used local pubs for post- talent, particularly in the current match refreshments. financial climate and this is an area they appear to have In 1973, with help from local covered. It will certainly be benefactors, the local council, exciting to see how their juniors the County Council and the can develop over the coming RFU plans were drawn up for years. a new Clubhouse which was In order to help their young extended in 1987. They then funded a new clubhouse in May players to make the sometimes 2000 and erected floodlights for difficult transition into the the main pitch in 2006. senior game they also have a 2nd XV. This allows them Their first team has put together to give players experience of a steady campaign so far this adult level rugby even if they time around, having compiled a are not yet considered ready record of 4 wins and 6 defeats for first team action which can be an important step in the from their first 10 matches. This has left them sitting in a development process. safe mid-table position with 20 points on the board. Another benefit of having a 2nd team is that it allows the This should provide them first XV to benefit from far with a solid platform from greater strength in depth. If which to build as they look they are ever left short on ahead towards the rest of the numbers through injury or work campaign. So long as they are commitments they have the able to retain their current group option of calling players up with of players and perhaps make a limited amount of disruption. one or two quality additions then they should be in with a Shipston on Stour RFC has good chance of putting together certainly come a long way since a successful season. their early nomadic existence and this is thanks to all of the One of the standout features hard work that their Committee of the Shipston on Stour set- has put into the club. Rugby up is the superb youth section Club Magazine wishes them that they have in place. This the best of luck for the future. part of the club looks to provide

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Shipston Rugby Club Magazine - Full Page.indd 1 01/12/2014 11:19:42 SWINDON COLLEGE OLD BOYS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG SWINDON COLLEGE OLD BOYS Nationwide Pavilion /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/swindoncollegeoldboys ///

Swindon College Old Boys suffered the disappointment of relegation from the Southern Counties League last year. They have wasted no time however in bouncing back as a summer with several new signings and hard work on the training field allowing them to make a positive start to the current campaign. Rugby Club Magazine spoke to a number of different club representatives to find out more about what has been behind their turn around. The club had a very challenging feeling in the club at the end of the Chairman Darren Astley told season last year. Our 1st XV were season was low and changes were us about his role and the club’s relegated from Southern Counties needed. ambitions for the future, saying, and due to a number of injuries “As Chairman of the club there picked up many of the 2nd XV were It was felt that the club needed to are many different challenges and often pulled up to play for the 1st’s find a new direction and energy so I rewards. Certainly at the moment which in turn left them turning up to was voted in as chairman and 3 new the rewards are hugely outweighing games with the bare 15. Numbers coaches were brought in. Martin the challenges because of the hard at training were not what they could Lloyd, Mark Lea and Chaz Drew work and commitment from all be and the players did not like the are all long serving players and involved. training facilities we were using. The previous coaches of the club and TWITTER /// @SCOB_RFC SWINDONHARLEQUINS COLLEGE OLD BOYS

“I’ve played for the club for 4 years having been invited to come and train following a charity rugby game - the team and coaches were positive, enthusiastic and had the right rugby feel.”

James McLaughlin, Player

www.rugbyclub.biz 63 SWINDON COLLEGE OLD BOYS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

understand the ethos of SCOB and what was required. We moved to the Ridgeway School, Wroughton, on the outskirts of town who have allowed us to make this our home for our 2nd XV as well. The facilities are brilliant “I had been playing Semi and it also allows us to buy a few sets of our lights and store and use them there. Professional Football for

Secondly, after such a testing season was to ensure we a few years without the still had the players on board and that they were all willing to go that extra yard to get the club back on track. It soon camaraderie Rugby gives became clear that not only did we have the commitment of the existing players we had the commitment from new you; too many yellows players who liked what we were trying to put in place and wanted to be part of it. in Football resulted in a

On top of this there are the usual challenges that come ban for me so I accepted with the role such as ensuring everyone involved in the club are happy, how the money is spent, ensuring new a request from a friend sponsors are sought, new kit, etc. But these challenges are totally outweighed by the rewards we are beginning to play rugby. I didn't to see. ever play football on a The 2 teams are winning again and enjoying their rugby. The social feel of the club is back which is a major factor Saturday again after for us and we are looking forward to the future with bright optimism. We know we are on the verge of potentially that game and night out. something big for the club which will change it forever. 20 Years later I am still Our first target is for our 1st XV to gain promotion back to the Southern Counties League and more importantly stay involved.” in that league. We have found that there is a considerable jump between our current league and the one above so it will take a huge effort to ensure we maintain that status. Once we have maintained this and we have our own Mark Lea – Head Coach home we can then look to see if we can progress further The 2nd is for our 2nd XV to gain promotion to D&W1 to and plan for the future. ensure they stay 1 league below our 1’s to ensure the constancy is there. This may prove harder as there are a lot of very good teams in that league and mostly 1st teams. We have seen historically most teams that have been promoted are relegated the next season as the jump again proves too high.

Finally, we want to set up a youth development system within the club. We are in early talks already with the RDO for Wiltshire and looking to get our accreditations in place so that first step is in place. Ideally, we would like to have all age levels playing but know this will take a bit longer to establish but I am comfortable that, with the commitment and enthusiasm within the club, this is just a matter of time.”

Mark Williams is their club captain and spoke of how he got involved and what he enjoys most about his role. He said, “I joined SCOB approximately 25 years ago. Having experienced senior rugby in Gloucester at Longlevens RFC, representing their colts and senior sides for 2 years, I was looking for a similar club ethos when I moved to Swindon. After a 2 year spell at a local Swindon club it killed my passion for the game and I quit the sport I loved playing for 11 previous seasons.

A year later I bumped into an outstanding senior player at the previous club, Tony Brant, who said that he had now joined another team and invited me to come training. I went training and never looked back. The unwritten ethos at SCOB that everyone was made welcome and supported, committed to an underdog fighting spirit on the pitch and celebrate like heroes off the pitch win, lose or draw was irresistible to me.

64 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @SCOB_RFC SWINDONHARLEQUINS COLLEGE OLD BOYS

www.rugbyclub.biz 65 HARLEQUINS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

“SCOB is a community club in that we are we known - we have an association all around Swindon and even people who don’t know rugby, know SCOB. That is testament to our current standing in the community - however when we have the clubhouse that will allow us to really start to have a positive impact on the community.”

Tom Birnie, 1st XV Manager and player

66 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @SCOB_RFC SWINDON COLLEGE OLD BOYS

The most challenging thing is trying to find new ways to compensate for my age when training against some outstanding young talent in the team. Levels of fitness and commitment have increased over the years. It is very rewarding watching and coaching new players to grow in confidence both on and off the field and them knowing that they have friends in the club that will support them.” Director of Rugby Martin Lloyd told us, “Due to poor choice, bribery and the lack of any other candidates I have managed to reach the elevated role of Director of Rugby, albeit a hands-on DOR, where an all hands to the pump, multi-functional approach is required.

I think the most important role for myself and the club is to provide an environment that allows the membership to pick what’s most important to them. We have competitive rugby; we have a good and active social ingredient, and healthy financial stability. We believe in a ‘band of brothers’ mentality where any kind of elitism or clique is strictly prohibited. Most embrace these core ideals with relish, especially the good and active social ingredient.

Over the next few years the outline of a permanent clubhouse should start to materialise. A working group of some of the more prominent local business people from within the club, with the necessary qualifications, experience and drive to make the dream a reality, have already taken the first steps. We have always been a nomad club, and over the years this has served us well. However the time has come for us to put down roots.

Our overwhelming desire is to integrate fully with the local area, providing facilities to local groups and sports diversity to the community, not just rugby. We have the people in place for this to be a realistic objective. The south side of Swindon is a rapidly growing community with a diverse population; this is the area we want to make our own. The infrastructure is growing fast and the addition of this type of facility is essential for community identity.

We have a first team cup final to look forward too, our numbers are growing rapidly, the teams are developing and there is a great atmosphere and buzz. In my years at the club as a player and coach I can’t remember a more positive outlook, long may it continue.”

Anyone interested in joining Swindon College Old Boys please visit www. scobrfc.org or head to Wroughton Leisure Centre, 18:30 Tuesdays and Thursdays.

www.rugbyclub.biz 67 SALCOMBE FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG SALCOMBE

Twomeads /// www.salcomberugby.org.uk /// Founded 1888

First established in 1988, Salcombe RFC is based at Twomeads on Camperdown Road in and they are a great example of a club that plays a vital role in their local community. In particular they do a fantastic job of developing talented young players, helping them to reach their full potential.

Their first team has made a steady start to their current league campaign, having put together a record of 4 wins and 3 defeats from their first 7 matches. This has left them sitting just behind the early pacesetters with 19 points on the board.

This should provide them with the perfect platform from which to build as they look ahead towards the rest of the campaign. If they can put together a good run of form they will have a good chance of mounting a title challenge.

Rugby Club Magazine caught up with Club Representative Martin Gautier to find out more details about some of the fantastic work that they’ve been doing at youth level. He told us, “I was first involved when my son started training with the minis some 10 years ago.

Salcombe is the nearest club with a genuine family atmosphere and passionate following. I started as general helper, got my coaching qualifications, coached a number of age groups and now run the minis section.

Our main challenges are numbers. Salcombe’s demographic means there’s not many local kids to pull from - 50% of Salcombe’s housing is 2nd homes. There’s also competition from other clubs in the locale (Kingsbridge). The most rewarding aspect is being involved in kids developing over the years, usually moving to Kingsbridge for Colts and then having them return as senior players.

Youth rugby is vital to us, both as a revenue generator (parents drinking on training nights) and for senior squad

68 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @SalcombeRFC HARLEQUINSSALCOMBE

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development. It’s tricky to ensure that players enjoy a smooth transition into the senior game. Our numbers are such that older age groups struggle to get a side together and end up “We work folding.

We work hard to migrate talented hard to kids to other local clubs and keep in touch during their development through Colts with a view to grabbing them back if they don’t leave the area migrate for work or University. We develop a lot of talent that move into larger clubs in higher leagues or University talented kids sides. Perhaps our most famous son is England World Cup winning Prop to other local Julian White. In the future we aim to develop the minis section, retain our current numbers, improve our 2nd XV and clubs and get back out of Devon 2 - after an appalling coaching experience last season, we dropped a league and keep in touch are keen to bounce back.”

Salcombe’s strong start to the season during their is a reflection upon the hard work that has been put into the club and their superb youth section should enable them to look forwards to a bright development.” future. Everyone at Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck for the rest of the season.

www.rugbyclub.biz 69 CLAREMORRIS COLTS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG CLAREMORRIS COLTS

Knock Road /// www.claremorrisrfc.com /// Founded 2009

Claremorris Colts RFC was founded in the summer of 2009 on the back of an adult Tag Rugby league run in the town over the summer. From the onset, the mission of the club has been to promote the core values of rugby - Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship to children, youths and latterly adults in the town of Claremorris and the surrounding South Mayo vicinity.

joining the club as players and/or coaches after their From an initial membership of 80 children aged 6-12 involvement over the summer. Signs are positive at this early years old playing mini rugby on Saturday mornings, the club stage in the current season that the ‘Colts’ star is continuing has grown to having over 270 child, youth and adult rugby to shine with further increases in membership numbers players in the 2014/15 season despite having no dedicated expected again. rugby playing facilities to call its own. Perhaps all the more remarkable is that the club’s growth has Claremorris Colts RFC inaugural season began in September been achieved without access to dedicated rugby playing of 2009 with an enthusiastic group of coaches mentoring 80 facilities in Claremorris. The mini rugby players are indebted boys and girls in the skills of the game and playing in blitzes to the Mount St Michael Convent Girls Secondary School for within commutable distance of Claremorris. making their pitches available at the weekends.

Membership rose to over 150 players in the 2010/2011 The youth and adult teams use the playing facilities of season with under-13 and under-15 boys teams added to the neighbouring Hollymount-Carramore GAA club for training mini rugby programme established in year 1. The tag rugby over the winter months and competitive games are held at neighbouring clubs or more often than not, home advantage league continued to grow with in excess of 100 male and female players turning out each week over summer 2010. is conceded to the opposition.

Claremorris Colts RFC’s third season commenced with It is imperative for the ‘Colts’ to acquire dedicated playing over 180 children registering in September 2011. The youth facilities in order to realise the goals within the club’s five year development plan. The core ambition within this plan is rugby programme was expanded with the addition of a boy’s under-16 team and a girl’s only mini rugby programme was to be hosting adult men’s and women’s rugby on a regular introduced to develop the budding ladies rugby stars of the basis in Claremorris with the club being represented by future. teams comprised of graduates from the indigenous mini and youth rugby programmes. The club achieved a major milestone in April 2012 when recognised as ‘Club of the Year 2012’ by the Connacht To that end, the local Claremorris Racecourse Committee Branch of the IRFU. The award citation acknowledged the has granted the ‘Colts’ a 25 year lease on a 5.6 acre site at giant strides made by the ‘Colts’ in bringing rugby to an area Claremount, Claremorris. Phase 1 of the site development not traditionally recognised as a stronghold and opening up plan encompasses the construction of a competition standard the rugby family to a cohort of players who would have been playing pitch and two adjoining training areas suitable for use lost to the game under normal circumstances. throughout the year.

The ‘Colts’ have not rested on its laurels since this landmark The lofty ambitions of this development are not cheap and whilst some funding has been made available through award. Playing membership has continued to expand and an adult rugby team entered the Junior 2 the governments Sports Capital Programme, there is still League in 2013/14. considerable work to be done to meet the funding target required to bring the plan to fruition. The club undertook its first overseas trip in 2014 when the U-12 mini’s and U-15 youths teams travelled to participate The main fund raising vehicle is the pitch development lottery in the Welsh International Festival of Rugby and nine ‘Colts’ with €1,000 in cash prizes available each month for the players were invited to train with various Connacht Rugby lucky winners. Entry into the draw is €10 per month payable by cash or more conveniently by standing order and, with Youth Development squads over the summer just past. entries limited to 300 tickets, there is an excellent chance of a cash prize whilst supporting the ‘Colts’ at the same time. Tag rugby continues to enjoy growing popularity nationally More details on this vital fundraiser activity are available and the Claremorris Colts tag league has expanded in line with this growing demand. Fourteen teams participated in on www.claremorrisrfc.com or by calling Kevin on 087 746 the recent summer league with a number of the participants 1829 or Fergal on 087 694 4669.

70 ISSUE 51 CLAREMORRISHARLEQUINS TWITTER /// @claremorrisrfc COLTS

Michael and Alison are delighted to be associated with Claremorris Colts RFC saying “we believe it is important to support the local community wherever possible and sponsoring the Rugby Club gives us a chance to do so. The club does a fantastic job providing young people with an opportunity of playing rugby and learn core values which will be of benefit in later life”.

We hope to be able to continue to support the club for many years and would like to take this opportunity to wish them the best of luck for the rest of this season.

Michael Keane and Co., Solicitors was established in November 1974 and has grown and prospered over the past 40 years and provides expert legal services in the areas of conveyancing, probate and Wills, commercial and personal injuries litigation, District Court and Circuit Court road traffic law and in family law. The firm represents many local businesses and private clients as well as the local GAA, rugby and golf clubs.

www.rugbyclub.biz 71 CLAREMORRISHARLEQUINS COLTS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

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The first five years in the life of the Claremorris Colts havebeen challenging but great fun for all the players, parents, coaches, sponsors and other stakeholders in the club. The foundations established since 2009 places the club on a strong footing to better serve our current and future mini, youth and adult rugby players, their parents and supporters whilst at the same time, further the club’s involvement in the local community and build greater awareness of rugby in South Mayo. Log onto www.claremorrisrfc.com for more details on how you can get involved and sign-up for the weekly club e-newsletter to keep in touch with all the happenings in Claremorris Colts RFC.

72 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @Currie_RFC CURRIE CURRIE Malleny Park /// www.currierugby.org ///

Based at Malleny Park in , Currie RFC currently competes in the BT Premiership. They are led by the team of Chairman Charles Mullins and President Phil Thomas and the club is looking to progress under their guidance.

This season they have put together a solid campaign up to now, having compiled a record of 5 wins, 2 draws and 6 defeats from their 13 matches. This sees them sitting in a safe mid-table position in the league with 29 points on the board.

This should provide them with a solid platform from which to build as they look ahead towards the rest of the campaign. So long as they are able to retain their current group of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions they will be in with a good chance of pushing on up the table.

Currie is not a club to focus solely upon their senior section however and this is reflected by the fact that they also have a number of youth sides running. These teams look to provide youngsters from the local area with an opportunity to play the game in a safe and enjoyable environment whilst helping them to reach their full potential.

It is important for any side to be able to produce their own talent, particularly in the current financial climate and this is an area that they appear to have covered. It will certainly be exciting to see how their juniors progress in the coming months.

In order to help their young players to make the sometimes difficult transition into the senior game they also have a 2nd team in place. This allows them to give youngsters experience of the adult game even if they are not yet considered ready for first team action which can be an important step in the development process.

Another benefit of having an additional side is that it allows Ian Merriman the first XV to benefit from far greater strength in depth. If they are ever left short on numbers through injury or work Creating a dream kitchen doesn’t have to mean ripping commitments they have the option of calling players up out units and starting from scratch. I can breathe new with a limited amount of disruption.

life into your existing kitchen or furniture by using paint. There is much to admire about the set up that Currie RFC currently has in place and this is thanks to all of the hard T: 0131 4787339 M: 07740397669 work that has been put into the club. Everyone at Rugby W: www.kitchenspainted.com Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck for the future.

www.rugbyclub.biz 73 Ian Merriman (23132).indd 1 04/11/2011 12:11:46 MINCHINHAMPTON FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG MINCHINHAMPTON

Minchinhampton RFC is based at Hollybush in Gloucestershire and they currently compete in Gloucester 3. They are led by Chairman Peter Varley who is supported by Secretary Robert Edmonds and the club has made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance.

Hollybush /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/minchinhamptonrfc ///

Their first team has made a superb start to their current league campaign, having compiled Impcross, a world-class specialist precision engineering company a record of 8 wins and only 1 defeat from their 9 matches. This has left them sitting top of the table based in the Stroud Valleys, is proud to be associated with with 36 points on the board. Minchinhampton RFC as its main sponsor. This should provide them with the perfect platform To remain at the forefront in today’s highly competitive from which to build as they look ahead towards manufacturing world, Impcross continually invest in state-of-the- the rest of the campaign. So long as they are able to keep up their recent level of performance they art CNC machines to enhance their role as a world-class centre of should be in with a great chance of going on to precision engineering excellence. claim the league title.

Investing in people is also part of the Impcross success story and One of the highlights of the team’s performances Roger Witts, Impcross Business Development Director said, “The has been the attacking brand of rugby that the side has managed to produce. This has been very nature of our business is working together as a team to reflected by the fact that they are currently the produce a winning formula - and Minchinhampton RFC epitomises top scorers in the league having racked up an this ethos.” impressive 244 points to date.

He continued, “Although our business is becoming increasingly This has certainly meant that any supporters global in its nature, with clients and partnerships around the attending their fixtures have been well entertained and should encourage more of the world, we like to keep our roots in Gloucestershire, and supporting local community to get behind the side in the Minchinhampton RFC is part of our ongoing community future. This in turn has the potential to provide the programme.” club with a valuable source of additional revenue.

Minchinhampton RFC is not a club to focus solely To find out more about Impcross, upon their senior section and this is reflected by the fact that they also have a superb youth visit our web site www.impcross.co.uk set up in place. This part of the club looks to provide young players from the local area with an opportunity to play the game in a safe and enjoyable environment whilst helping them to reach their full potential.

It is important for any side to produce their own talent, particularly in the current financial climate and this is an area that they appear to have covered. It will certainly be exciting to see how Proud to be main sponsors their juniors can develop over the coming years. In order to ensure that their youngsters enjoy of Minchinhampton RFC a smooth transition into the senior game they also have a 2nd team running. This allows them to give young players experience of adult level www.impcross.co.uk rugby even if they are not yet considered ready for 1st team action which can be an important step in the development process.

74 ISSUE 51 MINCHINHAMPTON TWITTER /// @MinchRFC

Another benefit of having more than one side is that it allows the first XV to benefit from far greater strength in depth. If they are ever left short on numbers through injury or work commitments they have the option of calling players up with a limited amount of disruption.

Minchinhampton RFC’s fantastic first half of the season is a reflection of all of the hard work that has been put into making the club a success. Hopefully they will be able to keep up the good work and Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck for the rest of the season.

“Minchinhampton RFC is not a club to focus solely upon their senior section and this is reflected by the fact that they also have a superb youth set up in place.”

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www.rugbyclub.biz 75 BEDFORD SWIFTS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG BEDFORD SWIFTS

International Athletics Stadium /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/bedfordswifts ///

Bedford Swifts Set Sights High

After the disappointing end to last season Bedford swifts were left facing harsh accusations of final performances warranting words such as disheartened, disillusioned and desperate. To tell you the truth these words were not too far from the truth. However what any of these truths failed to tell you is that deep, deep down within each Swift lies a chamber full of determination, desire and defiance.

Training for the Swifts began early July with fitness training being Roofing, Intelligent Building Automations, and Julie Dass as with provided from Andy Champ. The training was brutal, to the point their support another pillar has been added to the infrastructure that backs were left crippled for once putting in their fair share of of the club for this season. the graft on the pitch and the forwards were made sick for once being made to run faster than a prance from each ruck. At such Besides winning Midlands East Division 4, Bedford Swifts have hardships some people may have called it a day for the want of also set high targets for their public efforts of raising money for an easy ride to the top. charity. Some say that charity is not purely about giving money, rather instead, about feeling pain for it, the Swifts did just that Not one Bedford Swift felt the same. Each and every single and walked around Bedford Park in woman’s high heels. Bedford Swift knows that to reach the top of the table you need quality, Daycare Hospice has benefited greatly from Bedford Swifts endurance, teamwork and a tad bit of luck. With Bill Shanklys determination as once again the Swifts surpassed their target of words, “the harder we train the luckier we get” pushing each £750 donation. Whether the nude calendar will help raise any other to the limit became the norm throughout the summer more money for charity is yet to be seen! training sessions. Such limits were aided no less thanks to the efforts of the new physio Kerry Whinibrow, who through gaining I am the paper who waited on your doorstep to be picked up and experience herself has provided a leg for the team to stand on, read; I am the tab on your web browser who drew your eyes to another building block to the success of the season. my page; and I am your invitation, your ticket to join us, Bedford Swifts, on and off the pitch for one unrivalled season of adventure. For the Swifts the success of the 2014/2015 rugby season shall There is no chamber of secrets, no hidden room of requirement; hold more than just personal pride and glory. Having managed we need to win every point possible to guarantee promotion; so to secure the support of several new sponsors, not only do the come down to Bedford International Athletic Stadium to witness Swifts represent all of the past, present and future supporters not a fantasy but history in the making. of the club but they represent the town of Bedford itself. Thanks must be given to Bedford University, The Standard, Higham

76 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @BedfordSwifts BEDFORDHARLEQUINS SWIFTS

Harvey Robjohn, Press Officer Atmosphere “The mood at the club is one brimming with a muted confidence. We have currently had great starts to the season for all three of our teams as out of a combined 10 matches only 1 has been lost. The reason I express a muted confidence is because last season we were high flyers to begin with, defeating the then to be champions , however we then travelled away to who would finish last and lost. Furthermore our history dates back to the very We face that exact same point in time and fixture beginning of rugby in Bedford, in which the Bedford this weekend so here’s hoping no slip up will be Blues formed. had. Fundamentally if we win every match we will gain promotion and thus this is our aim. However the season is a long period of sustained rugby and Facilities realistically anything can happen because of the “In full honesty, for a club in the league that we bonus point system.” are, I have not played at a finer ground. Bedford Youth International Athletic Stadium is a dream to play at. The pitch itself is kept in great condition and free “Youth rugby is vital to our club and it is what keeps of public admittance so there is never any foul on our club rejuvenating year after year. We try to utilise the surface itself. With an ever changing ale at the youth at every possibility bringing them through the bar, you are spoilt for choice for the post match two squads giving them experience wherever possible pleasantries.” to improve on their capabilities. Further to youth players, we like to set an example to all spectators Ambitions of the sport and routinely have youth members of the community and club learning the rules of the game “The clubs ambitions for the next 5 years are to be promoted into Midlands East Division 2. Currently on the sideline.” we sit in Midlands East Division 4 and must get Community promotion this year. Promotion is as we as a club are more than capable to play a higher level of “Our club is very much a community club. This year rugby and this is emphasised by an undefeated alone we have raised over £750 pounds for the season so far with emphatic score lines such as 98 Bedford Day Hospice through several events such as – 10. However if we really want to progress we need a nude calendar and ‘Walk a mile in her shoes’, which to attract even more quality to the club.” consisted of walking for a mile in ladies high heels.

www.rugbyclub.biz 77 LUTTERWORTH FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG LUTTERWORTH

Ashby Lane /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/lutterworthrfc ///

Lutterworth RFC is based on Ashby lane, Biteswell in Leicestershire and their first team currently competes in the Midlands 2 East (South) League. They are led by the team of President Martyn Homes and Chairman Jason Woodward and the club are looking to progress under their guidance.

They have made a steady start to their current league campaign, having compiled a record of 5 wins and 5 defeats from their first 10 matches. This has left them sitting in the top half of the table with 26 points on the board.

This should provide the club with the perfect platform from which to go on and put together a successful season. So long as they are able to retain their current group of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions they may well find themselves challenging for honours come the end of the campaign.

One of the highlights of the team’s performances this year has been the superb defensive record they have compiled. This is reflected by the fact that they have conceded fewer points than anyone else in the league, giving away an average of less than 15 per game.

This is a reflection of the superb individual defenders they have at the club and also of all the hard work that their coaching staff have put into ensuring that they are a well drilled unit. Being so tight defensively should give their flair players the confidence to go out and play with freedom.

Lutterworth is not a club to focus solely upon their senior section however as they also have a number of youth sides in place. These teams look to give youngsters from the local area an opportunity to play the game

78 ISSUE 51 LUTTERWORTHHARLEQUINS

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in a safe and enjoyable environment whilst helping them to reach their full potential.

It is important for any side to be able to produce their own talent, particularly in the current financial climate and this is an area that they appear to have covered. It will certainly be exciting to see how their juniors develop over the coming years.

In order to ensure that they enjoy a smooth transition into the senior game they also run a number of additional sides. This allows them to give their youngsters experience of adult level rugby even if they are not yet considered ready for first team action which can be an important step in the development process.

Another benefit of having so many sides is that it allows the first XV to benefit from far greater strength in depth. If they are ever left short on numbers through injury or work commitments they have the option of calling players up with a limited amount of disruption.

There is much to admire about the fantastic set up that Lutterworth has in place both on and off the field. This should enable them to look forwards to a bright and successful future and everyone at Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck.

www.rugbyclub.biz 79 DROITWICH FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG DROITWICH

The Glyn Mitchell Memorial Ground /// www.droitwichrfc.co.uk /// Founded 1972

Based at The Glyn Mitchell Memorial Ground in Worcestershire, Droitwich RFC currently competes in the (South) League. Rugby Club Magazine caught up with their Chairman David Warner to find out more about the good work that they’ve been doing.

He started by telling us about his involvement with the club, saying, “Rugby is something that we have always been passionate about in my family. My father played for Richmond and my brothers both played county rugby. My own playing career ended with a bad injury when I was 21 but I was still very keen that my son should play, if he was interested.

Droitwich RFC has such a good reputation that when we moved here from London it was the club that everyone recommended. Alex started playing here 5 years ago. It was such a friendly, welcoming club with a real buzz around its Mini & Junior rugby on a Sunday that Alex and I were both hooked from the start. I began coaching the following season, became Minis’ Manager a year later and took over as M&J Chairman in 2012. I was elected Club Chairman in June 2014.” The Role “We are a business that has an annual income of around £250,000 and a clubhouse and grounds (4 adult pitches and 7 M&J pitches, as well as a football pitch) worth in excess of £1 million but we have to run it through a committee of volunteers. That is a real challenge. There is so much to do and all of us have to fit it around the day job.

I am always amazed (and very grateful) at members’ willingness to step up and get involved but we always need more help and the challenge is to find willing volunteers and to harness their enthusiasm; whether it is for coaching, safeguarding or raising sponsorship. The reward is seeing a full bar after a victory by the 1st XV on a Saturday and watching almost 400 young players train on a Sunday on well- maintained pitches, coached by enthusiastic and knowledgeable coaches. When I see that I know that we are doing something right.” Atmosphere “We are in good shape. Our M&J section goes from strength to strength, with almost 400 players

80 ISSUE 51 DROITWICH TWITTER /// @OfficialDRFC this season. Our senior M&J age groups have been very successful – winning silverware wherever they go. We are an O2 Touch Base, having introduced touch rugby at the Club about 4 years ago.

That is thriving and bringing in people to the club who are new to rugby. At senior level our players and coaches are in good spirits. We enjoyed a successful pre-season and start to our league campaign although recent results have not all gone our way.” Youth “The importance of youth rugby for the future of our sport is one that can never be under-estimated. I think that everyone at Droitwich RFC recognises just how vital it is to get young players into the game and to keep them there as they become adults. We have got a really successful M&J section that is the envy of many clubs but in recent years we have not been as clever as we need to be at keeping those players interested after 16.

That has become our real focus over the past 2 years and it is starting to pay dividends. As a Club we focussed last year on our newly revived under 17 age group and I am pleased to say that many of those players have now gone on to play senior rugby under the guidance of their former coach, who is the new 2nd XV manager.” Progression “We are really proud of all our players. We have a number of young players playing at county level and 5 have recently been selected for the North Midlands U16 squad and 1 for the Warwickshire squad. We also have several players at the Gloucester and Worcester Warriors Academies as well as in the player development programmes. Some of our former players include Josh Feek, who played for England U16 3 years ago, and Josh Nott, an ex-DRFC player, who has been selected for England U18. Worcester Warriors currently boast 2 former DRFC players in Sam Smith and Jonny Hughes.” Community “We are definitely a community club. Droitwich RFC lies just outside the town geographically but is right at its heart. We are heavily involved in the All-Schools programme with the local high school; we have an active schools liaison programme to raise the profile of the Club with primary schools; and we host inter-school matches and tag festivals during the year. We are rightly recognised as being a big community player.” Challenges “Like all rugby clubs, Droitwich faces the challenge of keeping players in the game after 16. The pressures of school, exams and other distractions mean that rugby will always have to work hard to keep existing players and to attract new ones.

However, I believe that the key to that is delivering a club that players want to be a part of. That means quality coaching, a welcoming atmosphere and good “craic”. We think that part of that involves attracting other sports to Droitwich to share our great facilities and to make themselves a home here.” Ambitions “We are very ambitious. Over the next 5 years we want to develop our facilities here at by building a multi-sport indoor training centre (for which we have planning permission) and adding floodlights to our 2nd XV pitch. I also want to start fundraising to extend our clubhouse. On the pitch we are looking to achieve promotion a couple of leagues above where we are now and to revive the 3rd XV and Ladies Contact teams. We also want to see more of our teams crowned as North Midlands champions, as our U16 team have been for the past 5 years.”

www.rugbyclub.biz 81 COVENTRY WELSH FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG COVENTRY WELSH

Burbages Lane /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/coventrywelsh /// Founded 1948

Coventry Welsh are a great example of a club that provides rugby for the whole family. Secretary David Welsh took the time to tell us more about their approach to the game.

He told us, “I have been at the club for about sponsorship and a general enthusiasm to help 25 years, joining the under 15s team, making the club. We have fantastic kitchen staff, Pat friends and enjoying the rugby and atmosphere so Kitchener, Susan Thatcher and Carol Ellis who much I never left. I have this in common with many not only provide support post-match but also for other players and club members from this era. I events and are always looking to generate new have come through all age groups and teams at income. Wasps have recently become our close the club, and at the end of last season was voted neighbours, which has also ignited interest and in as Secretary along with Chris Neal (Treasurer) further opportunities for Coventry Welsh.” and Paul Neal (Chairman) all of whom played in a successful colts team during the nineties, to senior Youth rugby and now into the ‘backroom’. We are a family “Youth development is very important to us, after club, with whole families playing roles from the all, the basis of many first teams at Coventry Welsh kitchen to the playing field to coaching to the bar have come through from this foundation, including on any given Sunday!” myself and most of the committee. But we are not Atmosphere getting any younger! We have recently invested in new changing rooms to allow us to host junior “The mood here is very optimistic at present. I am rugby, and are looking to start a new youth section new to the Secretary role having been voted in at next season. It’s a major priority for us.” the start of this season, along with the Chairman and Treasurer, and we are all very enthusiastic in Community moving the club forward. As we are also still players “We are definitely a community club. This is (when needs must!) we have a close relationship something we believe is vital to the survival and with the team both on and off the field and this prosperity of Coventry Welsh Rugby Club. We are has brought the club closer together, we have the a stone’s throw from the , and as such whole club supporting us. play an important part in many events held. We host parking for Coventry City fans on match days, The players feel they have a real role to play in and will be welcoming travelling and new local their club, and have shown this through generating Wasps fans to Burbages Lane for their first game

82 ISSUE 51 COVENTRY TWITTER /// @coventrywelsh WELSH “The players feel they have a real role to play in their club, and have shown this through generating sponsorship and a general enthusiasm to help the club.”

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against London Irish on the 21st December. We provide food, entertainment, BT and both pre and post-events. This is enabling the club to grow, indeed we have just started investing and expanding our facilities, to attract more players, play better rugby and ultimately bring success to Coventry Welsh.” Facilities “We have recently upgraded our changing rooms and can now accommodate ladies and youth rugby. We have also improved our player’s lounge and main room to provide a better environment for our members, visiting teams and local guests who use our facilities. We have upgraded our floodlights and have plans for further expansion including an extra pitch. We are investing heavily in upgrading our facilities to give our current and future players the best possible environment to achieve their full potential.” Ladies “We will have ladies rugby at Coventry Welsh starting next season. This was one of the targets set at the start of the year, and where our expanded facilities were key in attracting the ladies team to the club. Ladies rugby will always share equal footing with the men’s rugby here and we look forward to sharing their successes in the future!” Challenges/Ambitions “We are currently limited in the rugby we can host as we only have one pitch. We are desperate to expand to accommodate more rugby, and have begun talks with local landowners to explore local opportunities.

With our on-going investment in facilities and grounds we are laying the foundations for a brighter, successful future for Coventry Welsh Rugby Club. We target multiple promotions for both men’s and ladies teams with a thriving junior section, being the important centre of the community here in Coventry - so watch this space!”

84 ISSUE 51 COVENTRY TWITTER /// @coventrywelsh WELSH

George Pickard FCIOB, Sales & Marketing Director at Litecast Homefloors welcomes the association with Coventry Welsh RFC

We were only too pleased to be approached by Paul Neal, From a personal point of view I played rugby as a school Chairman of Coventry Welsh RFC with a view to becoming boy and then in the colts, I can only remember enjoying a sponsor of the club. the experience and I am sure that this prepared me well for some of the knocks that come along later in life. My son We as a local company believe that everyone should have Miles also played rugby from 16 – 20 first at Harbury RFC a hobby in life and this is best nurtured during school and then Old Leamingtonian’s RFC – both of us played in years and adolescence. Rugby in particular teaches young the scrum so we have very little understanding of the ref’s people the need for team work, self-discipline and social interpretation of the rules! responsibility. The sport has great role models in local clubs and throughout the professional game. This is no better We recently attended sponsors day where the enthusiasm personified than by Paul and the committee whom have of members and players was excellent. Welsh played hosts great plans to provide Coventry Welsh the platform to go on to Brackley, both teams put on a good show with Welsh the to great things. winners in their ‘lucky’ Litecast Homefloors Strip. Litecast_Layout 1 16/01/2013 14:38 Page 1

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www.rugbyclub.biz 85 MEDWAY FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG MEDWAY

Medway RFC play their rugby at Priestfields in Rochesterand have enjoyed plenty of success in recent years, including 4 promotions. Rugby Club Magazine caught up with their Head Coach Taff Gwilliam to find out what has been behind their success.

Priestfields Recreation Ground /// www.mrfc.net /// Founded 1931

“I joined the club in 1976 having been posted to the area as a young Policeman. I did look at other clubs being new to the area but Medway had the real rugby identity and a belonging feeling to it. I continued to play for the club until retiring from playing in 1989.” The Role “I returned to the club as coach in 2006 with the club at rock bottom of the RFU playing pyramid. A few of us got together and committed to rebuilding the club back to its rightful place. Since then more and more people have joined in and everyone has worked really hard together to continually improve us both on and off field. A real challenge but one with great satisfaction at all levels along the way as we climbed the leagues.” Atmosphere “The mood here is vibrant. The atmosphere on match days is electric with a true rugby ethos of beer races with opposition and the occasional song or two. A real rugby club. The club has also become the social hub of many members lives and this just creates the real family feel that is so important for a club with community values such as ours.” Youth “In these days of professionalism it is vital to have a mini, youth and development structure. We do not pay players so it is key that we work hard to develop our own and in tandem with this create an environment that is appealing to other local players to

86 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @MedwayRFC MEDWAY

join us. The club’s youngsters love We also look to build partnerships Having improved the vital on field coming together to play. The space with other clubs elsewhere in the facilities we are now in the final we have and the location allows for World. We have been involved stages of improving the off field all ages to have a great time at the in a successful player exchange with planning permission for a new club in a safe environment.” partnership with the Oriental clubhouse and changing facilities. Rongotai RFC in Wellington New We are desperate for more pitches Integration Zealand for the past few years. as not only do we have 21 different “In 2006 we scrapped the Sunday age group and Senior squads colt system and created a U20 It is a great mutual experience for in the club we also host the local Saturday Development squad. We both clubs players to experience a university, 6th form college and added a couple of experienced different culture and environment school academy sides.” props to provide a bit of steel which ultimately makes them better Challenges/Ambitions and capped Sunday’s to U17. As players and more importantly a consequence all the younger better people. We also have a “Off the field to complete the players get Sunday jobs rather thriving schools programme and clubhouse rebuild. We are than Saturday and this has helped are bringing new youngsters to the ambitious and have taken the senior us retain more players on Saturday. club every year. We have regular club to a level where the payment local schools tournaments here. of players is very prevalent and if We have grown from 2 sides to 5 We are truly one club.” we are to realise our ambition to since its inception. It is not the only achieve national League rugby Facilities factor but certainly a primary one. then financing and rewarding The individual player’s development “In 2006 the pitches were mud the players will be a significant is accelerated having removed baths and unloved. We have since challenge for us to overcome in the cocoon of age group rugby then invested heavily in our pitches such a way that it does not damage at U19. These days 18 year old and training facilities and with the the fabric of the club. Our sponsors internationals are not uncommon quality groundsmen we now have have been fantastic. so we wanted to remove the age we have got them to a level which restriction where it was restrictive is the envy of nearly all the clubs Anything we do must be to the players development.” in the area. The County senior side sustainable. I believe the RFU are use the club as their training base currently involved in study of this Community and we have been selected 3 times issue and it will be interesting to “We are very much a community in the last few years to host County see the findings and how they will club. It is the essence of everything Championship matches against impact on clubs at our level and just we stand for. We are built on such sides as . above us. We want to continue to community values. In the 1st XV grow on and off the field and be the squad we talk of us all being part best we can be without sacrificing of the ‘family’ that is Medway RFC. our values and beliefs.”

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www.rugbyclub.biz 87

akers arriottugdale DMD WETHERBY FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG WETHERBY

Grange Park /// www.wetherbyrufc.com /// Founded 1966

Based at Grange Park in West , Wetherby RUFC currently competes in the Yorkshire Division 4. They are led by President Peter Ziegler who is supported by Secretary Phil Hill and the club has made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance winning promotion in 2010-11 in style after winning the League.

Since then they have continued developing, establishing themselves in their new league and they now appear ready to take another significant stride forwards. Their first team’s form this season has been nothing short of spectacular and at the half way stage they sit proudly atop the table with 11 wins from 11. They have opened up a 15 point gap to their nearest challengers as the other sides in the league struggle to keep pace.

One of the highlights of the teams play has been the attacking brand of rugby that they have managed to produce. This is reflected by the fact that they have racked up an incredible 709 points in the league alone. This has meant that any supporters attending their fixtures have been well entertained and should encourage more of the local community to get behind the club in the future.

The team’s performances so far should give them the perfect platform from which to build a successful campaign and there is a real confidence amongst the players that they are capable of doing just that. So long as they are able to retain their current group of players it is difficult to see anyone stopping them claiming the league title.

Wetherby is a club that is committed to playing an important role in their community and their Sports England Clubmark Status is evidence of this. They have thriving junior and ladies sections at the club, demonstrating their commitment to providing everyone in their area with an opportunity to play the game.

Their youth section has a great record for producing players capable of going on to flourish at senior level with the focus being upon providing players with a safe and enjoyable environment in which to play the game whilst helping them to reach their full potential.

88 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @WethRUFC WETHERBY

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www.rugbyclub.biz 89 WETHERBY FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

“Wetherby’s superb start to the season is a just reward for all of the hard work that has been put into the club.”

90 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @WethRUFC WETHERBY

It is vital for any club that is looking to be successful to be able to produce their own talent and this is an area that they appear to have covered. It will certainly be exciting to see how their juniors can progress over the coming years.

In order to help their youngsters to make the sometimes difficult transition into the senior game they also have a reserve side running. This allows the club to give them experience of adult level rugby even if they are not yet considered ready for first team action which can be an important step in the development process.

Wetherby’s superb start to the season is a just reward for all of the hard work that has been put into the club. Hopefully they will continue in the same manner for many years to come and everyone at Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck.

www.rugbyclub.biz 91 SHEPPEY FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG SHEPPEY

Stupple Field /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/sheppeyrfc /// Founded 1892

Sheppey RFC was first established in 1892 by members of Her Majesty’s Forces and they play their home games at Stupple Field on Lower Road in Kent. The ground was given this name in 2011 in honour of the work that had been carried out by Alf Stupple in maintaining the pitch which many can agree to be one of the best surfaces in Kent. “This season they have made Before the club found its home at ‘The Ditch’ they played on many other playing fields around the Island. They moved to a promising start their present base in the 1960’s and had full ownership of the ground in 1977 making it an to their league an important date in their history.

The club as a whole is currently led by campaign, having President Gerry Lawson and has made a considerable amount of progress under his compiled a record guidance. Competing in the Shepherd Neame League their first team is overseen by of 7 wins, 1 draw Head Coach Rob Dengate. This season they have made a promising start to their league campaign, having compiled and 2 defeats from a record of 7 wins, 1 draw and 2 defeats from their 10 matches. This sees them well positioned just behind the early pace setters their 10 matches.” with 38 points on the board.

This should provide the club with the perfect platform from which to go on and put together a successful campaign. So long as they are able to retain their current group of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions OASISPLUMBING & BATHROOMS LTD ALL PLUMBING HEATING AND BATHROOM GOODS AVAILABLE they will be in with a great chance of going on FROM STOCK OR DELIVERED WITHIN 48 HOURS and challenging for honours. BOILERS & RADIATORS AT TRADE PRICES 20% OFF BATHROOM PRODUCTS Sheppey is not a club to focus solely upon their senior section however as they also have LPG BOILERS & WATER HEATERS & CARAVAN PARTS TO ORDER a number of youth sides in place. These teams OPEN 8 TILL 5 MONDAY - FRIDAY AND 8 TILL 12 SATURDAY look to provide young players from the local 01795 665106 area with an opportunity to play the game in a safe and enjoyable environment whilst helping them to reach their full potential.

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92 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @Sheppey_RFC SHEPPEY

In order to ensure that their youngsters enjoy a smooth transition into the senior game they also have a 2nd team which acts as their development squad. This allows them to give players experience of adult level rugby even if they are not yet considered ready for first team action which can be an important step in the development process.

Another benefit of having an extra side is that it allows the first XV to benefit from far greater strength in depth. If they are ever left short on numbers through injury or work commitments they have the option of calling players up with a limited amount of disruption.

Thanks to all of the hard work that has been put into making Sheppey RFC a success over the years they now have a solid foundation that will undoubtedly serve them well in the future. There promises to be many memorable times in the coming years for all those involved with the club.

Get in touch: 01795 660756 24 hour call-out: 0771 7810710

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www.rugbyclub.biz 93 HADDINGTON FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG HADDINGTON

Neilson Park /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/haddington ///

Based at Neilson Park in , Haddington RFC currently competes in Division 2 of the BT National League. They are led by President Peter Brownlee who is supported by Secretary Andrew Cunningham and the club is looking to progress under their guidance.

We caught up with their President Peter Brownlee to find out more about the good work the club has been doing. He told us, “I’ve been involved with the club for over 30 years since moving to the town.

The biggest challenge has been trying to keep morale high during what has been a tough year on the playing front. The most rewarding thing has been seeing the improvements to the Clubhouse and facilities which have been made recently. My biggest thrill is seeing the smiles on the faces of the minis on a Sunday morning come rain hail or shine.

The start to the season has not gone well at senior level but following a tie up with Preston Lodge our Colts are playing good rugby and showing promise. Our 2nds doing remarkably well while our 3rds struggle for numbers at times but more of a worry is the struggle they have for opposition.

We aim to win enough games to survive another season in National 2. Irrespective of our eventual fate it will be important to build in order to provide a strong challenge in David Guy Digital whatever league we compete 2015/16.

Developing young players is vitally important, the youth Aerial & Satellite section are the lifeblood of the club. Haddington will not go down the road of “buying a side” at least not on my shift. We are working very hard to create a culture and brand of “Haddington Rugby” community to ensure players enjoy a smooth transition into the senior game. Building bridges between the local secondary school Knox Academy and the club to support Knox’s status as a School of Rugby.

Digital Aerials Most clubs in Scotland struggle financially and given that it New installations & repairs costs C £800 each 1st XV match given the fiscal times we operate in income generation has to be a priority. We’re all Extra points to Any Room trying to dip into a shallower pool in terms of sponsorship Tuning in & set up services etc. Our current standing in terms of league position is not exactly attractive to potential sponsors. LED / LCD TV wall Installations Over the next 5 years we want to compete in the top Sky Repairs 25 of Scottish club rugby, enhance our standing in the Fully Insured Haddington Community, continue to provide a top class rugby experience to the youth and not so young of Free Estimates Haddington and surrounds.

Tel: 01620 824 631 Although Haddington RFC has not enjoyed the campaign that they would have liked this time around, this should not [email protected] take away from the good work that has been getting done SAME DAY LOCAL SERVICE at the club. Rugby Club Magazine wishes them the best of 4 St Martins Court East Lothian EH41 4BH luck for the future.

94 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @Haddingtonrfc HADDINGTON

www.rugbyclub.biz 95 TROJANS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG TROJANS

Stoneham Lane /// www.trojansrugby.co.uk /// Founded 1874

Trojans FC was first established on the 3rd of September 1874 and they continue to play a vital role in their community to this day. Rugby Club Magazine caught up with their Chairman Shaun Magill to find out more.

Secretary for 25 years and last but by seasons, we still have the self-belief He started by giving us an insight no means least is Peter Reid, he was that we can get back to London Div into what has been the club’s longevity, treasurer for 21 years. Peter is still 2. The youth section is still going from saying, “One reason for our longevity, on our committee as our sponsorship strength to strength and as vibrant as certainly in more recent years could be and marketing liaison man. These ever, still attracting new players. the constant presence of key people Trojans have a wealth of experience at Committee level. These men have and knowledge and have been a We haven’t had the best start to this been great servants to the Club - the tremendous help to me during my time season. The firsts have only won as Chairman.” three games so far! Having said that, late Chris Holt was our fixture secretary for 33 years! we now have a few more established Next he spoke of the club’s current players coming back from injury and He was well known throughout atmosphere telling us, “The mood in work commitments. This slow start Hampshire and the RFU, then there the club is quite good at the moment. however has given us a chance to see is John Mist who was our Honorary Despite dropping two leagues in two some young up and coming players

96 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @Trojans_Rugby TROJANS

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During a match between Trojans and Portsmouth Victoria in 1886, the ball was kicked into the Trojans’ in goal area where it rebounded off a stray dog. A Portsmouth player gathered up the all to touch it down for a try. The Trojans protested, and claimed “dead- ball” the ball having struck a “spectator”. The objection was later referred to the to the RFU committee who ruled that the try should stand, as dogs could not be classed as spectators.

98 ISSUE 51 HARLEQUINS

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that have come through our youth system. Considering the youngsters were thrown in at the deep end, they’ve done extremely well.” “We are now

Youth development is a major part of what Trojans do as Shaun explained, “ Youth starting to put rugby is tremendously important to Trojans. I started as an under 13 back in 1977 and have never left. Trojans is one of the biggest youth set ups in Hampshire with around 350 some good results members and still growing. Our 1st XV is about 70% home-grown talent, some having come through from our under 7’s. together and hope

We have connections with local schools, some of which come and use our facilities to stabilise the club for their sports lessons, as well as hosting inter school competitions. We are also an O2 touch rugby centre for the Southampton and halt the drop.” area.

Finally Shaun spoke of the challenges the club may face in the coming years and what BOTLEY STATION MOT CENTRE LTD Bottings Industrial Estate, Hillsons Road, Curdridge SO30 2DY T: 01489 798880 www.botleystationmot.co.uk

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100 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @Trojans_Rugby TROJANS

Trojans have had some great Rugby teams over the last thirty years or so, during which time I have supported my son Russell since he started playing mini rugby from the age of six. Many of the young players from the early 1980s who graduated to play for the County and the first XV remain friends to this day. Not having played rugby myself I was keen to enrol Russell to Trojans as it also gave me the opportunity to meet other parents and develop long standing friendships.

In the absence of having a rugby background I became the ball boy/assistant to Malcolm LeBas, one of Trojans former Presidents who coached the mini section including the under twelve’s for many years allowing him to also keep a close eye on two of his sons Steve and Nigel. I would highly recommend local parents introduce their children to Trojans at an early age even if they have no knowledge of the game.

It’s a great game to watch and support from the touchline followed by excellent social activity with your kids in the club bar afterwards. Travelling to away matches for tournaments and to play old rivals like Newbury and Havant gets you involved with the tremendous spirit of the game.

Whilst I am not able to watch so many games today, I do attend the club on occasion for a luncheon before a match and the continued friendship is so heart-warming as some of the ex-players in my age group after a few drinks seem to recall me having played with them forty years ago?

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they are looking to achieve. He said, “The recruitment of new players is always a challenge. We have quite a few clubs locally and we are all trying to attract new On the evening of 28th members from the same limited pool of players. November 1878, a match was Sponsorship is so important even at our level. We currently work very hard and played against Rovers Football depend, like most clubs on volunteers to attract more local sponsors. We are Club by electric light, having finding that you now need to run a rugby club like a small business. This of course been cancelled the night is incredibly difficult because we are all volunteers with jobs and families outside before because of rain. This the rugby club. I’m lucky to have a very understanding wife who’s dad played was the first exhibition of rugby, so she knew what she was letting herself in for. electric light in Southampton, Our main ambition this season is to stay in this league. The last two seasons have and believed to be only the been difficult, dropping from London 1 to London 3. We are now starting to put second ever game of rugby some good results together and hope to stabilise the club and halt the drop. Once under lights. The local paper we have achieved that, we’re looking to get back into London 2. That had previously been a good league for us. It’s reported that “at times the a good standard and there’s generally not a lot between the teams which makes it light was very brilliant and very competitive. Needless to say that’s not going to happen overnight but I’d like players could be seen plainly”. to see Trojans back there within three seasons.”

102 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @Trojans_Rugby TROJANS

www.rugbyclub.biz 103 HELSTON FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG HELSTON

King George V Playing Field /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/helston /// Founded 1973

Helston Rugby Club plays their home games at the King George V Playing Fields on Clodgey Lane in Cornwall and they currently compete in the Tribute 1 Cornwall League. They are led by the team of Chairman Brian Hosken and President Robert Barnes and the club is looking to progress under their guidance.

The idea of setting a club up in having compiled a record of 2 wins, 1 safe and enjoyable environment Helston first came more than 40 years draw and 7 defeats from their first 10 whilst helping them to reach their full ago when a group of rugby followers matches. This sees them lying near potential. discussed the idea at the Red Lion the bottom of the table with 12 points public house. The opinion that, ‘it on the board. It is important for any side to produce would never get off the ground’ was their own talent, particularly in the offered. There is still plenty of time left in the current financial climate and this campaign however and a good run is an area that they appear to have This did not stop a team being put of results would quickly see the side covered. It will certainly be exciting together however and they played climb the table. So long as they are to see how their juniors develop over their first game against Penryn able to retain their current group of the coming years. Reserves, losing by 14 points to 9. It players and perhaps make one or two was not long before they picked up quality additions they should climb Although Helston’s early season form their first victory as they overcame away from the danger zone. has not been great this should not Hornets Reserves by 6 take away from the good work that points to nil. The club has certainly One of the highlights of the Helston has been getting done at the club. come a long way since then. set up is the superb youth section Everyone at Rugby Club Magazine that they have in place. This part would like to wish them the best of This season it would be fair to say of the club looks to provide young luck for the rest of the campaign. that the team has not perhaps got off players from the local area with an to the start that they would have liked, opportunity to play the game in a

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104 ISSUE 51 CUMBERNAULD TWITTER /// @CumbernauldRFCU CUMBERNAULD

Cumbernauld RFC are committed to providing as many people as possible from their local area with an opportunity to play the game and currently field 2 senior teams as well as a number of sides at youth level. Club Secretary Iain Calder took the time to tell us more about the club.

Auchenkilns Holiding /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/cumbernauldrugbyclub /// Founded 1970

Integration He said, “After a poor start to the leagues the 1st XV are on a high, winning their last 3 games and in doing so team moral has “Transition from youth to senior rugby is difficult in this modern improved tremendously. Director of Rugby, Drew Reid and his era. But success breeds success and CRFC aim to ensure coaching staff, led by Ian Wallace, are enthused by the numbers smooth transition by closer integration with the senior teams and turning up at training due to the success. Whilst the 2nds have coaching staff and also listening to the demands of the youth had mixed results they are reaping from this success.” and providing them with a sound base to develop their rugby careers. Furthermore in the national press recently it was stated Youth that Cumbernauld is a preferred location for the SRU’s new Youth “The youth and mini section run by Paul Justice and Michael Academy in the West of Scotland. If this is the case then this can Mcdonald respectively are critical to the future of the club. only enhance the Club’s vision for youth rugby in Cumbernauld.” Retention is a big problem within the youth section but with an outdoor 3G + pitch available in the community numbers have Bill McLaren improved at Youth level where they are able to train throughout Positive Coaching Scotland accreditation programme the winter months under floodlights in a safe manner. Mums are “Additionally CRFC is about to embark on the Bill McLaren also happy with this arrangement as the boys and girls don’t Positive Coaching Scotland accreditation programme. The come home with muddy gear.” aims of this programme are to develop rugby players, develop

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people through rugby and build and sustain a strong and positive culture in our rugby environment.” Community “Cumbernauld Rugby Club is committed to continuing to develop a strong, local community ethos which is displayed in a number of ways. We have a strong mini and youth section, ranging from Primary 1 and 2 and extending to U18 teams. In addition we are linked to one of North Lanarkshire Council’s School of Rugby Programme in St Maurice’s High School, Cumbernauld.

Local primary schools use our pitches on a fairly regular basis for inter-school rugby competitions. We have an associated football club, Kildrum United, who operate at all age levels from Primary 1 through to seniors. The clubhouse is booked regularly by local groups such as Craighalbert Centre (special needs – Spina Bifida), Redburn School (pupils who require additional educational support). Facilities “While we are fairly satisfied with our existing facilities, we appreciate that there

106 ISSUE 51 CUMBERNAULD TWITTER /// @CumbernauldRFCU

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“The club’s main focus over the next 5 years will be the creation of a Community Sports Hub at Auchenkilns.”

108 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @CumbernauldRFCU CUMBERNAULD is a need to improve and expand on what we already have. For example, our referee’s accommodation is very basic and we have recently applied for external funding to upgrade these facilities.

The SRU Sustainability Fund is another area of funding we will strongly consider. However, any dialogue of upgrading existing facilities has to be undertaken in the context of our wider aims for developing Auchenkilns, namely, the acquisition of funding for a new 3G pitch with accompanying, additional changing accommodation.” Commercial “Taking into consideration the harsh economic circumstances over the last 7-8 years, Cumbernauld Rugby Club, like all other clubs, has found it difficult to maximise commercial potential. Playing numbers at senior level have certainly decreased and this has had a knock-on effect on club revenue streams.

Our long term plan includes achieving funding for a new 3G pitch to be used for rugby and football thus giving us the opportunity to grow local sporting opportunities which will in turn allow us to increase our revenue. We currently operate in conjunction with our sister organisation, Cumbernauld Rugby Football and Sports Club, who have overall responsibility for developing other sports.” Challenges/Ambitions Jim Cochrane, President of Cumbernauld RFC, spoke of the biggest challenges the club will face over the next 5 years, saying “Our biggest challenges include, playing numbers – drop off between youth and senior rugby currently 80% in Scotland; the general reduction in the number of players; and sustainability of revenue – local authority rent/rates increased charges; reduction in footfall in club generally. Gaining funding/sponsorship is also a major challenge due to the current economic climate.

“The Club’s main focus over the next 5 years will be the creation of a Community Sports Hub at Auchenkilns.” Again, Jim Cochrane identified the following strands of development: Phase 1 – 3G pitch, fencing, floodlights and Phase 2 - changing facilities – changing rooms, office accommodation, meeting rooms, car park upgrade in order to help the club to progress.

www.rugbyclub.biz 109 GLOUCSTERSHIRE ALL GOLDS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG GLOUCESTERSHIRE ALL GOLDS

Oxstalls Campus /// www.allgoldsrugby.com ///

Gloucestershire All Golds enjoyed a steady campaign in 2014 and have been making considerable progress in recent years. 26-year-old Chief Executive Robert Webber took the time to give us an insight into what’s been behind the club’s success.

He told us, “I have been involved in the club since 2006, starting as a student at the University of Gloucestershire. I was attracted to the club as it was a fresh new opportunity for me, being from a rugby union background, and my first taste of the great sport of Rugby League made me immediately fall in love with it and I have never looked back.

I have 2 favorite memories both of which came in 2014. The first was the momentous win against Hunslet Hawks last season. To win at one of the most famous clubs in rugby league, in the heart of rugby league territory was a great victory and one that will live with me forever.”

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110 ISSUE 51 GLOUCSTERSHIRE TWITTER /// @AllGolds ALL GOLDS

“To win at residents left average of £1,208 out of pocket because they ‘don’t want to make one of the a fuss’ following an injury. most famous QualitySolicitors research reveals over example getting a taxi if they were unable a third (34%) of people in the West to drive. clubs in rugby Midlands put off claiming for an injury If you’ve had an injury and you’re not sure that wasn’t their fault because they don’t whether you should make a claim, just league, in want to contribute to the ‘compensation think about the difference negotiating a culture’ in the UK today. Three quarters successful claim could make to your life. (79%) admit they judge people who put the heart of in a claim following an injury and two- There are many factors that contribute thirds (69%) feel resentful towards them to a claim such as loss of income, pain, rugby league because they feel it’s driving up their medical costs, travel costs etc. insurance premiums. Don’t simply respond to a company cold- territory However, over half (55%) say there were calling you after an accident – they really real consequences to not claiming. don’t have your interests at heart. Financially, it left those who didn’t make was a great a claim an average of £1,207.70 out of The only way to properly assess your pocket, with over one in 10 (15%) having potential injury claim is to have a meeting. victory and to find £2,000 or more to cover their costs. We’ll come to you or you can come Nearly one in five (17%) suffered a loss of to us. We have offices in Tewkesbury, earnings and one in 10 (11%) had to make Cheltenham and Pershore. one that will cut-backs on day-to-day expenses such To arrange a free initial meeting, please as reducing their shopping bill. Over one call us on 01684 299 633, or ask for our live with me in 10 (11%) had extra costs they hadn’t FREE Serious Injury Compensation Pack. anticipated to help manage their injury for forever.”

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[email protected] www.qualitysolicitors.com/tblaw GLOUCSTERSHIRE ALL GOLDS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

Club of the Year There is a real sense of ownership at the club, everybody “The second moment was being crowned ‘Club of the Year’ wears the ‘Golden Fern’ with pride and passion but at the at the Kingstone Press Awards Ceremony. This was a victory same time with a real determination to ensure that the club, off the field that meant a lot to myself and my ops team. the university, the county of Gloucestershire and the sport of Recognition on the field is regularly given so to be rewarded Rugby League is treated with the utmost respect.” for being a great club behind the scenes was outstanding. We are a young, innovative and forward thinking club with a “2014 was a dramatic improvement on the field when Scotland unique business model so we have no blue print of success. Head Coach, Steve McCormack, was appointed. Finishing This award was credit to all the staff and players collectively.” one place off a play-off spot was a disappointing end to the season, as we targeted the play-offs. The performance off History the field was also an improvement on 2013 as we increased “The University of Gloucestershire All Golds are the only our staff infrastructure, improved our scholarship scheme and professional rugby side owned by a university anywhere in was awarded TASS accreditation, delivered rugby league to the world. It’s been a remarkable journey from a student side over 2000 children throughout Gloucestershire and had many playing in the lower reaches of the student game six years other successes.” ago to the All Golds debut in Championship One in 2013. It Off-season was someone from outside the world of academia who first sowed the seed. “After a quick rest for us all it is back to the grind stone and setting our sights on what we can achieve in 2015. As a club Lionel Hurst, Ellesmere College Public Schoolboy, is a we never want to stand still and we want to keep progressing passionate Rugby League fan. The idea to become a each year. Our main projects for the off season are to improve professional club started when Dr Andrew Pitchford looked our home ground, the Prince of Wales Stadium, to improve at other institutions that have used professional sport as the match day experience, build a squad capable of making a pathway for player development and a way of gathering the play-offs next season and securing continued resource profile, including Bath University and and to help us deliver an outstanding community program and believed the model could work for Rugby League at his academy. For us we absolutely must develop the club from university. He became chairman of the new club and set about primary schools all the way up to first team as without every convincing the sceptics. In 2013 the All Golds were admitted element working we will never achieve all that we can.” into Championship 1 and are now about to enter their 3rd Challenges/Ambitions season.” “The biggest challenge as ever is imposing a rigorous Atmosphere infrastructure right through from primary school into the “The mood in the club is very good. Lee Greenwood, our professional side. The acquisition of high quality staff off the new Head Coach, has brought a wealth of experience to the field, as well as on, will determine the long term success. club and has introduced a number of techniques to increase By the season of 2020 we are aiming to be finishing in the top the morale of the players. The back room staff are working half of the Championship. Ambitious? Yes, but achievable with incredibly hard to get ready for 2015 and after receiving the the resource and drive that we have here at the University of award for club of the year we have set our standards even Gloucestershire All Golds.” higher than normal.

112 ISSUE 51 JED-FOREST TWITTER /// @JedforestRFC JED-FOREST

Riverside Park /// www.jedforestrfc.com /// Founded 1885

Jed-Forest RFC is one of the world’s oldest and most famous clubs, having first been established in 1885. They play their home games at Riverside Park in Roxburghshire and have achieved considerable success at first team level recently securing promotion to the BT National League.

It would be fair to say that their first team has not perhaps enjoyed the start to the season that they would have liked, having put together a record of 3 wins and 8 defeats from their first 11 matches. This sees them sitting in the bottom half of the league with 15 points on the board.

There is still plenty of the season left to go however and the side will be confident of pulling away from the bottom clubs. So long as they can retain their current group of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions they will be in with a good chance of doing so.

The season has not been without positives and one of these is that they have generally defended better than the teams around them. This has the potential to provide them with a platform from which to build a successful second half to the campaign. PeterCoach and Minibus Hogg Hire Having a tight defence will be a major confidence boost for their flair players and should serve them well during the winter 4 - 70 Seats months when it is difficult to play a free-flowing game. They have a game in hand on their nearest rivals and a good run of Larger Parties Also results could see them rapidly climb the table. Catered For. Jed-Forest is a club that is committed to playing an important role in their local community and this is reflected by the fact Tel: 01835 863755 that they also have a 2nd team in place. This allows them

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to give twice as many players an opportunity to play the game every week.

Another benefit of having more than one side is that it allows the first XV to benefit from far greater strength in depth. If they are ever left short on numbers through injury or work commitments they have the option of calling players up with a limited amount of disruption.

As a club they also have a strong commitment to the 7s format of the game and they host The Mainetti Jedforest competition at the end of the season which is traditionally the last of the Kings of the 7s Tournaments. The result of the whole series is often decided at this event.

It is always a great way to end a campaign and is well attended by people from the local area. This year’s event is sure to be another huge success with some great rugby on display.

Jed-Forest’s slow start to the campaign should not take away from the good work that has been getting done at the club. They have a fantastic base from which to go on and achieve plenty of success in the years to come and everyone at Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck.

114 ISSUE 51 MOFFAT MOFFAT

The Holm /// www.moffatramsrfc.org//// Founded 1994

As a relatively new club, first established in 1994, Moffat Rams have been progressing well and currently compete in the Scotland West Division 4. The team is known as the ‘Rams’ because they were named after the statue in the High Street which commemorates Moffat’s connections with the wool trade. They play their home games at The Holm on Selkirk Road in Dumfriesshire.

The club is led by President Jim Johnstone who is supported by Treasurer Chris Sermin and they have made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance. This season their 1st team has put together a strong record of 6 wins, 1 draw and just 1 defeat from their 8 matches which sees them sitting proudly atop the table.

There are a number of teams just behind them in the table and the 2nd half of the season promises to be full of excitement. There is a confidence amongst the players at Moffat that they have the ability to claim the title and if they can keep up their recent level of performance they will certainly be in with a chance.

A major positive of the team’s performances this time around has been the attacking brand of rugby that they have managed to produce. This is reflected by the fact that they have racked up 328 points already, making them one of the top scorers in the league. This has ensured that any supporters attending their matches will have been well entertained and should encourage more of the local community to get behind the side. This in turn has the potential to provide the club with a valuable source of additional revenue.

One of the highlights of the Moffat set up is the superb youth section that they have in place. This part of the club looks to provide young players from the local area with an opportunity to play the game in a safe and enjoyable environment whilst helping them to reach their full potential. It is important for any side to be able to produce PROUD SPONSORS OF MOFFAT their own talent and the work that Moffat are RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB doing in this area should enable them to look forwards to a bright and successful future. TRY OUR FAMOUS MOFFAT TASTY There is much to admire about the set up that AND BORDER TARTS Moffat Rams currently has in place and the progress that they have made since being :R . LITTLE BAKERS LTD established is thanks to the hard work that their Committee has been put into making them a Tel: 01683 220201 success. Rugby Club Magazine wishes them 6 High Street, Moffat, Dumfriesshire DG109EU the best of luck for the future.

www.rugbyclub.biz 115 CHARD FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG CHARD Essex Close /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/chardrfc /// Founded 1876

First established in 1876, Chard RFC is one of the oldest club’s in Somerset and their first team currently competes in National League 3 South West. Rugby Club Magazine caught up with Club Representative Paul Gammage to find out more about the good work that they’ve been doing lately.

This Season He told us, “We are nearly half way through the season, and to be really honest, we have found the step up to this level, to be the biggest jump yet! We have lost 6 or 7 players from our play off winning team, for various reasons, and we have had unfortunately, some injuries this season, to compound the problem!

However, that said, we are playing some younger players who have gained terrific experience, and we still have a couple of older heads who, thankfully, have not yet hung up their boots.” I think winning the League is now beyond us! However, staying in this League is really important, and if it is, as they say “a game of two halves” then thankfully we have the second half to look forward to!” Youth “Youth Rugby is extremely important to us and we have a great Mini and Junior Section within the Club. Our overall committee structure is such that the whole Club is run by a Senior Management Committee. This is equally represented by the Chairmen, Treasurers and Secretaries of the Senior Club and Mini/Junior Section as well as our Director of Rugby Steve Broome, to ensure that all voices are heard and one group does not get left out of the decision processes.

Within this, we are just going through some RFU courses relating to young player retention and integration, and this is very important to us as it becomes the lifeblood of the Club in the future.

We also believe in some core values, vital tools at this stage of a young player’s career, and these are Respect, Discipline, Enjoyment, Teamwork and Sportsmanship.

Keeping a young talent in the game is difficult enough for any club – competition from other sports, educational opportunities and other distractions, does mean Rugby can take a back seat. The availability of players in the right age groups is sometimes tough, but we have been really lucky recently, that we are now fielding an U18’s side ForFarmers (formerly BOCM PAULS) that is full of enthusiasm and it is great to see them getting so much are proud to sponsor Chard RFC. enjoyment, from playing the greatest game in the World.” ForFarmers - the total feed business is the UK’s market Integration leader in animal feed production in terms of manufacturing, quality and service, together with technical advice. “We are actively developing age groups where we can keep the bond that develops between players, together. This can be difficult For more information on ForFarmers product offering, at times and we see it at other local clubs too, where age groups can or how we can help your business and maximise feed lose some momentum. efficiency through expert advice, call 08456 717839 or visit our website www.forfarmers.co.uk

I think it is a difficult question to come up with precise answers as the key thing is being able to manage and look after players as individuals at this stage, as each one will be different and it won’t be a one size fits all, solution.” Community “To me we are getting more professional in how we run the business, that is Chard Rugby Club and within this, we fully appreciate that the

116 ISSUE 51 CHARD TWITTER /// @ChardRFC greater the support we can get from within the town, the more likely we are going to be able to progress things in the future. This may mean we are putting more back than what we may have done in the past, but this is the 21st Century and we are evolving all the time.

Small things will make such a difference as to how successful we are in this. We already have crowds of between 150 – 250 people coming along to watch a 1st XV home game, and this is important to us. We will also be seeking RFU Accredited Club status in the future.

We are also interacting with as many different elements within the town – exercise classes and external groups using the Club for meetings all help to involve the Club in the community – as does putting on a massive family Fireworks Night event for the town. Being slap bang in the centre of the town makes us so much more accessible for any group wishing to use the Club facilities and we are more than happy to see this progress.” Challenges “Our biggest upcoming challenge will be dealing with our next promotion! Of course I am being serious. We have great players and great coaches who all want to be doing better, than what we are currently providing. Managing growth within our structure and limited volunteer base will always be a challenge.”

Ambitions

“We want to consolidate a position in the highest league we can, giving all our players the best opportunity to play great rugby. It is also important to have a successful girls/women’s team involved within the Club – success, initially will be measured in numbers involved and the overall progress of the players and Coaches, as we will be starting off from a current zero level.

We need to have a Club on a sound financial footing that is doing its best to provide the highest standard of Rugby, that can be found in the area whilst promoting all of the virtues of this great game and to continue to grow the game in South Somerset.

We are also looking to take the message that is Chard Rugby Club, into local schools, and try and “sneak” a few players away from soccer!”

Image courtesy of Andrew Graham

www.rugbyclub.biz 117 THURROCK FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG THURROCK

Oakfield /// www.thurrockrfc.com /// Founded 1876

Based at Oakfield on Long Lane in Essex, Thurrock RFC do a fantastic job of providing people with an opportunity to play the game with men’s, ladies and youth sides. Rugby Club Magazine caught up with their Director of Rugby Dean White to find out more about the good work that they’ve been doing lately.

“The mood here is very positive at the and results each week and the future looks to moment. We have brought in a number of be in good hands. Our ladies team are sitting new initiatives to ensure that we are one big top of the table and are looking to go into the club all working together. We are now fully premiership this season. Our men’s sides are integrated at every level and have a motto of going through change and have a new coaching ‘ONECLUB’. We have tried to make our set-up set-up. as professional as possible with a focus upon getting the right players for the club that want to The 1st team are going steady and are looking play for Thurrock.” to consolidate after the disappointment of relegation last season. We have 4 men’s teams The Season so far at the club with two being social sides and “It has been very busy and exiting. Our youth two being serious sides. I have set-up a new section is flying high with fantastic numbers rugby academy at the club this season and this has been fantastic. I have also managed with the help of the RFU to set up two local rugby academies in the area. One at a six form and one at a school. These will feed players into our system and over the next five years we will really see the benefit.” Targets “We’re looking to consolidate at men’s levels with a big emphasis on bringing our youth players through to senior rugby. It will be important to ensure our ladies team gain promotion into the Premiership. We also want to keep improving on the standard of our youth players/coaches and to ensure that everyone is heading in the same direction with the same goal. Our goal as a club is ‘To be a successful, sustainable rugby club with strong community links, playing a brand of rugby to be proud of and having a relentless drive to producing high quality rugby players at We are a Ford main dealer and have been established the top level.’” for over 50-years during which time we have developed Youth an enviable reputation with our customers. Based in Grays, Essex we specialise in the sale of new “Youth development is a major priority at the and used Ford models as well as Servicing, Parts and club as these players are our future and will all Quick Lane. hopefully be senior players one day. New this season we have ‘transition sessions’ at the Call today! club. This means that players will attend training sessions of the age group above to get a better 01375 391 234 relationship with players that they will be playing Email: [email protected] with in the future. This also happens with colt players attending senior training. I have also put : Rates Ford Dealership : @RatesFord a talent identification officer in place whose job RATES FORD HOGG LANE, GRAYS, ESSEX RM17 5QL is to link between the youth and senior sides highlighting future stars.”

118 ISSUE 51 THURROCK TWITTER /// @thurrockrfc

Challenges/Ambitions “Perhaps our biggest challenge is keeping playing numbers up. With lifestyles changing and people working more we do tend to lose players at senior level. This is one of the reasons that we feel it’s important for players to enjoy themselves and feel part of something. Since the economic meltdown players seem to work on Saturdays and then become unavailable for match days.

Over the coming years it will be important to keep producing players of a good standard. We aim for the men’s 1st team to return to the national leagues. Additionally we will look to fully support our youth section and give them the tools to succeed, continuing to be a fully integrated club.”

www.rugbyclub.biz 119 KELSO FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG KELSO

First established in 1876, Kelso RFC currently plays their home games at Poynder Park in Scotland. Their first team competes in the BT National League Division 1 and they are looking to make progress over the course of the season.

Poynder Park /// www.kelsorfc.co.uk/home /// Founded 1876

The first half of their campaign can be said to have gone reasonably well as they have put together a record of 5 wins, 1 draw and 7 defeats from their first 13 matches. This has left them sitting in a mid-table position with 28 points on the board.

This should provide the club with a solid platform from which to build as they look ahead towards the rest of the current campaign. As long as they are able to retain their current group of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions they will have a good chance of pushing on further up the league.

Their Head Coach Gary Holborn took the time to tell www.kelsorfc.co.uk his thoughts about the first half of the campaign, saying, “I think that the initial fear that we had as a group of coaches, being thrown into the deep end so to speak has gone.

That is down to the way the players have responded, and came together as a group. It's great to be part of a set up where on training nights lads are having fun and improving, then taking what we have worked on into a game.

I think you will agree that despite the opposition in front of us on Saturday we played some excellent rugby for the full 80, when in the past we would of taken the foot off.” (Kelso 77-0 Hillhead/Jordanhill – Saturday December 20th) “This backs up the positive attitude and work ethic we are developing. The most pleasing aspect though has to be the zero on the scoreboard against Hillhead/Jordanhill.

We are still, and will be for a while yet 'a work in progress', but we will have some fun on the way.

The best aspect of being a coach is to see lads given the opportunity of a run in the first team and establish themselves, this helps build a sustainable playing squad to push on to the next level.

120 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @KelsoRfc KELSO

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We offer a full range of fresh potato products, from baby salads to organics all supplied from two well invested packing facilities throughout the UK. Furthermore, we have the ability to supply both locally and on a national basis thanks to our geographical spread of procurement and packing sites. A large proportion of our products are supplied in customer branded packaging which drives us to ensure the highest standards of food safety and quality. Our branded product – GreenVale Potatoes is therefore treated with the same care and attention. Any Questions or advice feel free to call us on: 01835 863719

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Finally on behalf of Skeena, Fordy, Ian, Richie and Neil, have a happy xmas, see you all in 2015.” Kelso is not a club to focus solely upon their first team however and they also have a number of additional sides. This allows them to give far more players an opportunity to play the game every week.

Another benefit of having so many sides is that it allows the first XV to benefit from far greater strength in depth. If they are ever left short on numbers through injury or work commitments they have the option of drafting players in with a limited amount of disruption.

There is much to admire about the work that Kelso has been doing this season and Rugby Club Magazine would like to take this opportunity to wish them the best of luck for the New Year.

www.rugbyclub.biz 121 KESTEVEN FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG KESTEVEN

Woodnook /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/kestevenrfc ///

Kesteven RFC’s first XV has enjoyed a superb first half to the season as they look togain promotion and have been playing some fantastic rugby. Secretary Bill Berridge took the time to tell us more about the good work that the club has been doing lately.

He told us, “I’ve been involved with the Club since I moved to Grantham in 1990. As someone new to the town it was natural to seek out the local club. I was given a very warm welcome from Founder Member Derrick Smith, Secretary Nick Pert and 3rd team Captain Mike Money. After a short spell away from the area I returned to the Club in 1998 and volunteered for the role of Secretary – which I still hold today.” The Role The most challenging aspect of my role has been to ensure that the Club complies with all the requirements of managing a club which took the step of becoming an Industrial and Provident Friendly Society, then a Community Amateur Sports Club.

There are also increasing demands to comply with requirements such as the new Game Management System. However over the years the club has had an enthusiastic band of volunteers who make the whole club operate.” Atmosphere “The Club is in great heart at the moment. The 1st team is going well and looking for promotion to Level 7 while the 2nd team are leading their league and the 3rd team exists to provide social rugby for those who do not wish to play every week. The mini and junior sections continue to thrive.” This Season “The start to the season has gone well for the senior sides with the 1st team lying 3rd in their league and having reached the semi-final of the Notts, Lincs and Derbys Shield. They are currently the league’s top scorers. The 2nd team currently head their League, playing some outstanding rugby. The aim of the 1st team is to win promotion and to go as far as we can in the County Cup competitions.” Youth “Youth rugby is vital to the success of the Club. We have a thriving youth section with teams from Under 6

122 ISSUE 51 KESTEVEN

www.rugbyclub.biz 123 KESTEVEN FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

to Under 18. The success of the senior teams in recent years is largely down to the success of that youth policy. The current first team has a core of players who have played together all through Mini and Youth rugby. They are Kesteven players through and through.” Integration “The club has appointed a development coach whose role is to ensure that Colts players integrate into the adult game. Several of our Under 18 squad play regularly in the Senior teams, at 1st, 2nd and 3rd team level. They benefit from playing alongside senior players, gaining valuable experience. Last year’s Under 17 squad were an exceptional team winning many awards and cups. That squad will grow as they progress through to senior ranks.” Challenges/Ambitions “The biggest challenge will be to meet the expected upsurge in interest in the game as a result of the Rugby World Cup. As well as recruiting new players at all levels we need to ensure that we have enough qualified coaches to cope. In the longer term there will be a need to increase the ground area we have and ultimately we will need to improve our changing facilities too. We have firm plans to upgrade and extend our floodlights as well. The Club will endeavour to play at the highest level it can, but being realistic and not overstretching itself. We also want to continue to grow the junior section to the best level we can.”

124 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @SelkirkRFCInfo SELKIRK SELKIRK

Philiphaugh Stadium /// www.selkirkrfc.com /// Formed 1907

Playing their home games at the Philiphaugh Stadium in the , Selkirk RFC currently compete in the BT National League Division 1. They are led by President Mick Craig who is supported by Secretary Ian Walker and the club is making a considerable amount of progress under their guidance.

The club has a proud history with a terrific record of producing high quality players including 12 Scotland internationals. Perhaps the best known is fly-half John Rutherford who gained 42 caps for his country and played for the British Lions in New Zealand in 1983.

Perhaps the club’s finest hour to date came when they managed to win their only Scottish Club Championship in the 1952-53 season as well as the title. They also won the border league title in 1935 and 1938 and will be keen to add further silverware over the coming years.

The signs are certainly promising this year as they have put together an outstanding league record with 14 wins out of 14 fixtures played. Unsurprisingly this sees them sitting top of the table with 64 points on the board. This should provide them with the perfect platform from which to go on and claim the title. As long as they are able to keep up their recent level of performance then it is difficult to see any of their rivals catching them and a league trophy would be a fine way to cap off what has been a terrific season so far.

One of the highlights of the team’s performances this time around is the superb brand of attacking rugby that they have been producing. This has been reflected by the fact that they have racked up 417 points already making them the top scorers in the league.

Playing such an exciting style has certainly meant that any supporters attending their matches have been well entertained and should encourage more of the local community to get behind the side in the future. This in turn has the potential to provide the A warm Scottish welcome awaits you at Woodlands Bed and club with a valuable source of additional revenue. Breakfast set in the heart of the beautiful Scottish Borders. Tasteful and comfortable rooms with private facilities and a freshly prepared breakfast each morning ensure you have a relaxing and enjoyable stay in this Selkirk RFC’s superb first half of the season is a just stunning part of Southern Scotland. We look forward to welcoming you. reward for all of the hard work that has been put into Tel: 01750 20002 the club over recent years. Hopefully they will be Email: [email protected] able to continue in the same manner for many years Woodlands Bed & Breakfast, LindeanScottish Borders, TD7 4QN to come and everyone at Rugby Club Magazine.

www.rugbyclub.biz 125 SEAHAM FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG TWITTER /// @Seaham_RUFC SEAHAM

Seaham Leisure Centre /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/seaham ///

“We started this season with losses in the quarter final of the Durham County Junior Cup and our first two league outings. We really struggled with player availability and had to rely on veterans such as Steve Meir, Colin Hall, Steve Wilkinson, Rob Thornton and Dave Drinkwater to come out of retirement and get us back on track.

We’ve since regrouped after key players returned and won five out of our last seven league fixtures, and drawn one; racking up 25 points out of a possible 35. So it’s fair to say we are in a good place and morale is good. We’ve always been renowned for our “never say die” attitude and our changing room is a happy and buoyant one at present.” Youth “We view youth development as integral to the future of our club. That’s why we’ve forged links with local schools, supported by Durham County Rugby Development staff. They’ve done a fantastic job supporting us to structure our plans for establishing and promoting junior rugby in the Seaham area.

I mentored a group of Year 7 boys from Seaham School of Technology down to Twickenham in November 2005, where they played a warm-up match and formed a guard of honour for the England and Australia teams as they took to the pitch for their Autumn International. Some of those lads are enjoying playing adult rugby for us now.” Integration “With the support of Matt Bryan, Laura Coleman and a hardcore of volunteers, we provide a safe and enjoyable environment for local kids to learn and enjoy participating in our beautiful game. We access the local schools and follow a carefully drafted structure to promote the game as a meaningful activity that offers equal and fair opportunities to all interested parties and also engenders a team ethic into their mind-set. The overall aim is to provide a well-managed pathway towards senior rugby.” Community “Our club has always taken great pride in being an integral part of the local community. Our amazing Supporters Club members often don fancy dress costumes for home matches and take a bucket around to raise funds for local causes. Our players also do their bit and participate in events such as the Boxing Day Dip every year. One of our lads raised a princely sum for a local disabled girl

126 ISSUE 51 HARLEQUINS

www.rugbyclub.biz 127

OF0308as_Refresh_Ad_297x210.indd 1 17/12/2014 14:45 SEAHAM FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG TWITTER /// @Seaham_RUFC when he bungee-jumped from of that in hand and liaises with welcome them back should they Teesside Transporter Bridge. the relevant parties. We have our wish to return. hopes and ambitions for the future Holding on to our best players and Our club donates a generous development of the club. However, replacing the ones who either move cheque to the local Mayor’s Charity as they are still in the consultative on or retire may be a tough task. Fund every year and support the stage, it would be misleading to put Our coaching team – Jon Dye, John local Tots ‘R’ Us nursery scheme anything in black and white just yet. McCallum and Johnny Whitehead that provides top quality childcare But watch this space!” – are very passionate about the facilities for families with limited game and, with the support of Challenges income. There are numerous other senior players such as Ben Bell and charitable concerns that we support. “Geographically, we are in a rather John Dixon, look forward to guiding We are widely renowned as being precarious position; in the middle of the club through the next stage a big-hearted bunch that supports a triangle with Horden, Sunderland of its on-going development. We those around us.” and Houghton at each point. Each are constantly moving forward and of these clubs has more than one times are very exciting indeed.” Facilities senior team playing every week, Ambitions “Our current facilities at Seaham thriving youth sections, and ladies Leisure Centre are a massive sections (at two of those clubs). So “We would love to increase our improvement on those we had at trying to compete with those and playing numbers at all levels i.e. our previous headquarters. Our keep people coming to Seaham is fielding more than one senior team changing rooms are 50 metres from a massive challenge as bigger clubs every week, providing regular our pitch and, in a recent Durham have traditionally viewed us as little fixtures for our youths in various age & Northumberland Rugby Forum more than a feeder club. groups, and increasing our numbers poll, our post-match catering and of coaches, volunteers, and hospitality at our headquarters - The We’ve always advocated the best basically anyone else who thinks Marlborough Hotel - were voted the interests of all our players and, if they may have something to offer best in our league by a massive they are good enough to play at a our club. Who knows, we may even majority. higher level, we encouraged them to be able to form a Ladies Section. fulfil their potential. Players wishing But, in the meantime, we’ll just carry We may have to relocate to new to follow their dreams always leave on playing with smiles on our faces premises in the future but our Hon with our best wishes but we operate and enjoying our beloved game.” Secretary, Bob Dickinson, has all an open door policy and always

128 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @RFCTreherbert TREHERBERT TREHERBERT Ty Daw /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/treherbert /// Formed 1874

First established in 1874, Treherbert RFC’s base is at Ty Draw, 55 Wyndham Street in Rhondda- Cynon-Taff and they currently compete in Division 3 East Central B of the WRU SWALEC Leagues. They are a great example of a club committed to playing an important role in the local community.

This season they have been in superb form, putting together a record of 6 wins and just one defeat from their opening 7 matches. This has left them H.H. HUNTHUNT && SONSSONS LTDLTD sitting near the top of the league with 25 points on the board. This should provide them with the perfect platform from which to go forwards Building & Roofing Contractors and put together a successful campaign. So long as they are able to retain their current group of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions they may even claim the league title which would be a superb achievement. House Renovations & Maintenance Treherbert is not a club to focus solely upon their senior section however Friendly Reliable, Clean and and they also have an extremely successful youth set up. This part of the Efficient Service. club looks to provide young players from the local area with an opportunity to play the game in a safe and enjoyable environment whilst helping them to reach their full potential. Fitted Kitchens and Bathrooms It is important for any side to produce their own talent if they are to be successful, particularly in the current financial climate. Their coaches are ESTABLISHED OVER confident they’ve a number of juniors currently involved with the potential for a bright future within the game and it will be exciting to see how they 80 YEARS develop.

Website: www.hhuntbuilders.co.uk In order to help their youngsters to make the sometimes difficult transition E-Mail: [email protected] into the senior game they also have an additional side running. This allows them to give players experience of adult level rugby even if they are not yet considered ready for first team action which can be an important step in the Contact Numbers development process. Tel: 01443 771368 / 774614 / 775958 Another benefit of having more than one team running is that it allows the Mobile: 07850 424304 / 07977 806917 1st XV to benefit from far greater strength in depth. If they are ever left short on numbers through injury or work commitments they have the option of The Office & Yard, 92a Gwendoline St calling players up with a limited amount of disruption. TREHERBERT, RCT CF42 5BW Treherbert’s fine performances this season have been a result of the superb set-up that the club has behind the scenes which allows them to flourish on the field. Rugby Club Magazine wishes them the best of luck for the future.

www.rugbyclub.biz 129 swinton lions FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG SWINTON LIONS

Chorley Road /// www.swintonlionsrlc.co.uk ///

Swinton Lions RLFC is based in Swinton and Pendlebury, and have a proud history having won the Championship six times as well as three challenge cups. We caught up with Club Representative Stephen Wild to find out more about how they are getting along in the present day.

He told us, “I became a director in February 2014 when I was elected to that position by members of the Supporters Trust (along with Alan Marshall). My chief responsibility is therefore to represent the fans in the decision-making process of the club. The formation of the Supporters Trust was originally my idea back in 2002 and it’s been incredibly successful for a club of our size.

Tel: 07738 367922 Lowton Business Park, Newton Road, Warrington, Cheshire, WA3 2AP

130 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @swintonlion swinton lions

I’ve been a Swinton fan for as long had previously been neglected as I can remember (I first attended but we’re now making steady as a 4 year old with my dad in 1968). progress. Our coach John Duffy I gained my interest through family has been making the Lions tradition and simply because I wanted known at our local amateur clubs, to support my local team. in particular Folly Lane and Bury I’ve gained a great interest in the club Broncos whose kids will be invited history, and I suppose I’m also the to play curtain-raisers prior to first club historian. I’ve written two books team games next season. on the subject, and I’ve amassed a We’re also hosting a Nines vast collection of club memorabilia Tournament at Sedgley Park on 28 which I continue to add to.” December to which we’ve invited 5 amateur clubs to compete The Role against ourselves. With respect “The most challenging aspect is fitting to the local business community, everything into the week. I work full- we’ve now established a Swinton time outside of the RL club yet there Lions Business Academy which are always rugby matters to attend meets monthly.” to. It may sound corny but I just find Challenges it extremely satisfying to be making a difference at the club I love. I couldn’t “Arguably our biggest challenge, be involved to this extent and with this and certainly the issue which is enthusiasm with any other club. As a of most importance to our fans, fan at heart I know what is important would be the relocation of the to our supporters and I always try to team back to our home town in look after their interests.” a purpose built stadium. Being nomadic, as we have been for 22 Atmosphere years, causes many difficulties, “The mood here is fantastic. Our new and to resolve this issue would head coach John Duffy is doing a great not only assist our income job preparing our team for the new streams but reaffirm our identity season. The players are all ‘ours’ (i.e. amongst our fans and the people no dual registration) and we’re trying of Swinton. to instil an ethic of professionalism and hard work. Although we’ve been At the moment we are in the nomadic in recent years we want our hands of Salford Reds owner players to understand the rich history Marwan Koukash, who has and tradition of the club and to give submitted outline plans to the their all for the badge. Council to redevelop Swinton town centre. These plans include We believe we’ve assembled a strong a 4,000 capacity ground for the team with a mix of youth, experience Lions so naturally we await a and physicality. Our aim is to win final decision there with interest. the League One Championship and Hopefully we’ll know within the the League One Cup. If that doesn’t next couple of months.” happen it won’t be for the want of trying.” Ambitions Youth “With regard to on the field ambitions we have to manage “I can’t speak for the previous regime, expectations and put into but since the current board took over context where we were a earlier this year we’ve endeavoured year ago. However, we want to create a pathway for young talent to win promotion back to the to progress to our first team. It’s early Championship and to then firmly days, but via Salford City College establish ourselves in that middle at Eccles we’ve established an tier. Off the field our ambition is RFL accredited pathway for young to have a new stadium, and to players. Within the next couple of establish ourselves as a centre of years we hope to have established a local civic pride.” Swinton Lions youth team playing out of Eccles College.” Community “We would very much like to be recognised as a source of local pride representing the town of Swinton & Pendlebury. This is something that

www.rugbyclub.biz 131 AYR FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG AYR

Millbrae /// www.ayrrugbyclub.co.uk /// Founded 1897

Ayr RFC has been playing some terrific rugby once again this season and currently sits in 2nd place in the BT Premiership. We caught up with their President Billy McHarg to find out what has been behind their success.

He told us, “I’ve been involved with the club for 15 years now, 9 as President. Some of the success that we’ve achieved during my time here has been terrific. We’ve won the League twice including for the first time ever and we’ve also won the cup 3 times in the last nine years. It’s been a successful period for us and that is thanks to the superb team that we have here behind the scenes. They’ve done a great job.” This Season “Things have been going well this season. You can never take your eye off the ball though. When I first got involved the aim was to get 40 points and not get relegated. Our aim now is to claim a top four finish every year because you’ve no divine right to win anything.

It is even more important this season with play- offs being introduced for the first time. Ideally we’d like to get a top two finish to ensure that we get a home tie. The atmosphere here is very positive. Everybody works for each other and recognise that if they want to be part of something successful they all have to be pulling in the same direction.” Youth “It’s not just the senior team that is going well here. 5 years ago we set an Academy up for the Junior section to help players develop. The Scottish U18 and U16 leagues were introduced last year and we won both of them so the future is looking very bright for us.

132 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @OfficialAyrRFC AYR

www.rugbyclub.biz 133 HARLEQUINS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

AYR RUGBY CLUB MAIN SPONSORS FOR THE LAST 40 YEARS

Lynch Homes, since its inception in the Racecourse Hotel in Victoria Park , Ayr. with features including a choice of high seventies, has earned a reputation for quality German kitchens by Alno and Lynch Homes have spent a significant building beautiful, distinctive, affordable luxury bathroom / shower suites. period of time and consideration on this homes and prominent micro- unique development to restore and Quality modern fixtures and fittings communities. The family based firm has retain the structure of the existing including Oak Veneered internal doors been a market leader in the building and coach house. and chrome ironmongery complement development of interesting and the interiors. innovative housing. The materials sourced and used throughout the development have been The exterior features include Lynch Homes is renowned for its build chosen to be in keeping with the original monoblocking courtyard with turfed quality, attention to detail and it prides building and within the conservation gardens and natural slate roofing to the itself on delivering “walk in and start area of Ayr, where it is set. buildings giving this development style living” properties. The redevelopment incorporates 13 new and character in keeping with the area The Paddocks site is the former Old luxury apartments and mews cottages and the original design.

THE PADDOCKS - 2 VICTORIA PARK - AYR KA7 2TR 134 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @OfficialAyrRFC AYR

As well as introducing these sides we’ve started to play some U20 games to help players make the transition into the senior game. The 3rd XV has some experienced players and we try to introduce some of the younger players into that side to help them to learn as well.” Community “We are a big part in the community and we’re very well supported, I think everyone is buying into what we are achieving here. We’re probably averaging around 500 or 600 spectators at our home games.

The biggest add on we’ve had recently was that 2 years ago we started a Ladies team and that has gone brilliantly. About a month ago at the U18s girl’s session there were 43 girls there so that has developed very quickly.”

Challenges

“Our biggest challenge over the coming years will be gaining additional facilities. Ideally, we would like to move and have a set up where we have high quality pitches and a first class indoor facility. That will be key for us if we are to maintain a top four position in Scotland. We’re working with the Council and the Community to see what we can do in that regard.” Ambitions “Over the next 5 years we want to continue being successful. You can’t take your eye off the ball. We want to continue producing our own players and bringing them into the side. Our structure involves members of our first team going into schools and we want to continue to help people to enjoy the game of rugby.”

www.rugbyclub.biz 135 stanford FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG STANFORD Stanford Recreation Ground /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/stanfordlehope /// Founded 1975

Stanford Rugby Club play their home games at the Stanford Recreation Ground on Grove Road in Essex and their first team currently competes in Division 4 of the Shepherd Neame Essex Merit Table. They are led by the team of President Bert Higgs and Chairman Kyran McDonald and have made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance.

Their tight defence is thanks in part to the fact that they have This season their first team has made a superb start to their league campaign, having compiled a record of 7 wins some terrific individual defenders but is also a testament to the hard work that has been put in on the training ground in and just 1 defeat from their first 8 matches. This has left them near the top of the table with 34 points on the board and with order to ensure that they are a well-oiled unit. a game in hand on the leaders. Stanford is not a club to focus solely upon their senior section Their performances so far should provide them with the as they also have a number of youth teams in place. These perfect platform from which to build as they look ahead sides look to provide youngsters from the local area with towards the rest of the season. So long as they are able to an opportunity to play the game in a safe and enjoyable environment whilst helping them to reach their full potential. keep up their recent level of performance they may well find themselves top of the pile before too long. It is important for any side to produce their own talent, One of the main reasons for the team’s strong performances particularly in the current financial climate and this is an area is the superb defensive record that they have. Up to now that they appear to have covered. It will certainly be exciting they have conceded just 88 points at a rate of around 10 per to see how their juniors can progress in the coming years. match.

136 ISSUE 51 STANFORD

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ARE PROUD TO BE WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH STANFORD RUGBY CLUB. WISHING ALL PLAYERS, COACHES AND PARENTS A VERY SUCCESSFUL 2015 SEASON. Tel: 01375 840577 E-Mail: [email protected] Web: www.hdssecurities.co.uk

www.rugbyclub.biz 137 stanford FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

In order to help ensure that they enjoy a smooth transition into the senior game they also have a 2nd team in place. This allows them to give players experience of adult level rugby even if they are not yet considered ready for first team action which can be an important step in the development process.

Another benefit of having more than one side is that it allows the first XV to benefit from far greater strength in depth. If they are ever left short on numbers through injury or work commitments they have the option of calling players up with a limited amount of disruption.

Stanford’s fantastic recent from is a testament to all of the hard work that has been put into making the club a success. Hopefully they will be able to continue the good work that they have been doing for many years to come and everyone at Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck.

138 ISSUE 51 HOYLAKE HOYLAKE

Carham Road /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/hoylake ///

Hoylake RFC plays their home games on Carham Road in and their South Lancs/ Cheshire Division One. They are led by the team of President Mark Evans and Chairman John McNeill and the club is looking to progress under their guidance.

There is still plenty of the season left to In order to help their youngsters to make There is evidence of rugby being play however and a good run of results the sometimes difficult transition into the played in Hoylake as early as the 1890s could see them quickly climb the table. adult game they also have a 2nd side when a team with close links to the So long as they are able to retain their running. This allows them to give players Royal Liverpool Golf Club was running. current group of players and perhaps experience of senior level rugby even if It is believed that they played on Little make one or two quality additions they they are not yet considered ready for first should be in with a good chance of team action which can be an important Moels Road on land next to the golf course with the ‘dressing’ room being at doing just that. step in the development process. the Stanley Hotel. Hoylake is not a club to focus solely Another benefit of having more than one There is no sign of a direct link between upon their senior section however as team is that it allows the first XV to benefit that club and the present team which they also have a number of youth sides from far greater strength in depth. If they was established in 1922. Since being in place. These teams look to provide are ever left short on numbers through set up they have put together a history of youngsters from the local area with injury or work commitments they have which they have every right to be proud. an opportunity to play the game in a the option of calling players up with a safe and enjoyable environment whilst limited amount of disruption. This season, it would be fair to say that helping them to reach their full potential. Hoylake’s disappointing start to the their first team has not put together the campaign that they would have liked, It is important for any side to produce current season should not take away having compiled a record of 2 wins, 2 their own talent, particularly in the from a club which continues to play an important role in their community nearly draws and 10 defeats from their first 12 current financial climate and this is an matches. This has left them sitting at the area that they appear to have covered. It 100 years after first being established. bottom of the table with 12 points on the will certainly be exciting to see how their Rugby Club Magazine would like to take board. juniors can develop over the coming this opportunity to wish them the best of years. luck for the future.

www.rugbyclub.biz 139 FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

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140 ISSUE 51 ELLESMERE PORT, WIRRAL, CH65 3AS INTERIOR SURFACE SOLUTIONS FOR Beplas – Providing An Extensive Range Of Interior HYGIENIC APPLICATIONS. Surface Solutions For Hygienic Applications

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With the UK’s most extensive range of internal wall and ceiling lining systems and ancillary products, we offer complete hygienic environments. Whatever your industry, from healthcare, education and food and drink manufacture to hospitality and retail, we have a solution to meet your requirements. All Beplas products are available on a supply-only basis or fully installed by our network of approved installers. We supply hygienic cladding all over the UK and around the world. We can help throughout the construction process from initial concept through to completion, our experienced staff have the knowledge and skills to guide you every step of the way. When it comes to hygienic environments, Beplas is the company to trust.

Our Clients Hoylake Rugby Club: A refurbished clubhouse and changing facilities

Hoylake Rugby club were thrilled with a recent installation of Elite PVC sheets with Premier 250 panels.

A refurbishment of the clubhouse and changing facilities presented an opportunity for Beplas to showcase their complete hygienic wall and ceiling systems. Our products were used extensively in the shower areas, changing rooms and kitchens where ease of cleaning, durability and aesthetics were all high on the agenda. We were able to offer a complete solution CALL US TODAY ON 0800 413 758 which was sympathetic to their budget concerns. Or alternatively you can email us at: [email protected] Hoylake RFC is a terrific example of a well-run community establishment and we would like to take this opportunity to wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

:Beplas Hygienic Walls and Ceilings Limited :@BeplasUK :Jay Moorhouse

Visit out website for more information: www.beplas.com UNIT 2, JUNCTION 8 BUSINESS PARK, ELLESMERE PORT, WIRRAL, CH65 3AS www.rugbyclub.biz 141 LLANDRINDOD WELLS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG LLANDRINDOD WELLS

Cefnllys Lane /// www.llandrindod-rugby.org.uk /// Founded 1972

First established in 1972, Llandrindod Wells RFC is Haydn Lewis based on Cefnllys Lane in Powys and they enjoyed a Haydn Lewis Financial Services terrific campaign last time around as they managed to win the Mid Wales Cup. We caught up with their Your Local “One Stop Shop” For all of your Financial Needs. Secretary Jonathan Duggan to find out more about how they are getting along this season. Protection | Mortgages | Independent Advice Savings & Investments | Pensions | Insurance Proud sponsors of Llandrindod Wells RFC He told us, “I have played for the club for 12 years, a group of about five of us joined the club from Builth Wells youth, we were attracted to the club as it was our home town club and we felt we would get regular rugby. It’s Tel: 01597 824338 Website: www.haydnlewis.co.uk all about enjoying being part of a grassroots club, sometimes things don’t 2 Temple Street, Llandrindod Wells, Powys LD1 5DL go right on and off the pitch, but you’ve got to laugh about it and move on.

The spirit is good at the moment as we are currently top of our league having won all but one of our league games this season, we have some tough games coming up after Christmas but we have a strong squad and we will hope to be in the mix come May.

We are a small club so aren’t able to facilitate all of the youth and junior Motor Insurance age groups. Over theMotor last Insurance 12 months we have set up a small junior section Household Insurance of Under 9’s and UnderHousehold 11’s Insurance that we hope will grow over the coming years. Liability Insurance Liability Insurance Commercial Insurance We encourage ladsCommercial from the Insuranceage of 17 to get involved with training with a Property Owners Insurance view to getting involvedProperty with Owners contact Insurance sessions and games when they turn Liability Insurance Liability Insurance 18, ideally they will play in friendly games at first with a view to playing Van Insurance Van Insurance league games as their confidence improves. I would consider us a community club, the introduction of our junior section has helped to involve more people in our club, a successful season has also meant we have had good attendances at games this season which has been appreciated by the boys. We as a club try to make the clubhouse

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Pictures for illustration purposes only. available to as many community groups as possible to give ourselves a higher standing in the community.

As a club we’ve produced players that have gone on to play at a higher level, mainly with Builth Wells in Division 1. British Lion Danny Lydiate went to school in Llandrindod but made his way through the Newport Gwent Academy, although there is an unconfirmed rumour that he might have had a game for our under 14’s some seasons back.

Like any small club, there are peaks and troughs and when older players retire they need to be replaced, with modern work patterns and other social activities available it is important that these players are prepared to commit themselves to playing week in week out to get the best out of their time playing rugby.

Over the coming years we would like to improve the clubs facilities, keep the senior team vibrant and competitive and also to grow the junior section to maybe have some more teams.”

www.rugbyclub.biz 143 MORRISTON FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG MORRISTON

Heol Gwernen /// http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/morristonrugbyclub ///

Based at Heol Gwernen in , Morriston RFC currently competes in Division 3 West Central C of the Swalec leagues. They are led by the team of Chairman Vince Matthews and President John Evans and the club has made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance.

Playing with such style has certainly meant In order to help their youngsters to make Their first team has enjoyed a superb that any supporters attending their fixtures the sometimes difficult transition into the start to their current campaign, having have been well entertained and should senior game they also have an additional encourage more of the local community to side in place. This allows them to give compiled a record of 7 wins and just 1 defeat get behind them in the future. This in turn from their first 8 matches. This sees them players experience of adult level rugby even has the potential to provide the club with a sitting just behind the league leaders with 36 if they are not yet considered for first team points on the board. valuable source of additional revenue. action which can be an important step in the development process. This should provide them with the perfect Morriston is not a club to focus solely upon platform from which to go on and mount a their senior section however as they also Another benefit of having more than one title challenge in the 2nd half of the season. have a number of youth teams in place. team is that it allows the first XV to benefit So long as they are able to keep up their These sides look to provide young people from far greater strength in depth. If they are recent level of performance they will certainly from the local area with an opportunity ever left short on numbers through injury be in with a great chance of claiming some to play the game in a safe and enjoyable or work commitments then they have the silverware. environment whilst helping them to reach option of calling players up with a limited their full potential. amount of disruption. One of the highlights of the team’s performances so far has been the attacking It is important for any team to produce their Morriston RFC’s fine start to the season is brand of rugby that they have been able to own talent, particularly in the current financial a just reward for all of the hard work that climate and this is an area that they appear has been put into the club in recent times. produce. This has been reflected by the fact that they are the top scorers in the league, to have covered. It will certainly be exciting Hopefully they will be able to continue in the having racked up 382 points at a rate of to see how their juniors can progress over same manner for many years to come and more than 40 per game. the coming years. Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck.

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144 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @KeyworthRFC keyworth KEYWORTH

Willoughby Road /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/keyworthrugbyfootballclub /// Founded 1976

First established in 1976, Keyworth RFC is based on Willoughby Road in and their first team currently competes in the Midlands 4 East (North) League. Rugby Club Magazine caught up with their Secretary Jason Holland to find out more about the good work that they’ve been doing.

He told us, “I have been involved with the Club since 2007 when I moved to the village. Whilst still playing 1st or second team games, as a resident of the village I became involved to some extent in the running of the Club.

The Club is run primarily by Kevin Price, a founder member of the Club in 1976, prior to moving to its current site in 1983. The ground has previously been home to a hockey club and also a cricket club ((where the cricket legend of the 1950’s Reg Simpson played) as a village resident). Kevin looks after all the administration, upkeep etc. of the Club and the catering side has been looked after for many many years by stalwart Jill Stimpson and husband Tony (President Tony sadly died in mid 2014).

The most challenging aspect of the Club is the lack of volunteer support – whilst the Club is well “supported”, the “behind the scenes” work is in the hands of a few – all Club helpers are not paid for their contributions, some of which are very substantial. We all have day jobs! The attraction of the Club is the nearby location – it’s also a good facility for the Community. “The Youth The Club is suffering from some lack of continuity each week due to availability of players due to injury or non- availability and this can impact the lower Rugby section, sides too - not unusual when we talk to other local Clubs. from U7 upwards The season has had a poor start – we have yet to register a win but with many of those results (last week was 17 – 10) close matches but not wins. provides a strong We are planning a couple of floodlight matches prior to the end of the season as the new floodlights were installed in 2014, with help from the RFU, NLD and contribution Notts County Council in addition to a significant Club contribution.

We have an active Youth Rugby set-up at the Club to the Club with almost all Age Groups up to U17 represented. It remains difficult to retain those youngsters as the transient student population do not stay locally and go off to College/University. That said, the Youth on Sunday Rugby section, from U7 upwards provides a strong contribution to the Club on Sunday mornings. mornings.”

www.rugbyclub.biz 145 HARLEQUINS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

Welcome to a finer dining experience. Contemporary Indian Cuisine restaurant & collection

The magic of age-old, distant Indian recipes, brought to the heart of Nottinghamshire and blended with a contemporary twist using fresh, local produce leaves our customers satisfied in a way they say, “only taste can describe”.

Indian Nights offers authentic and delicious Indian flavours, with restaurants and takeaways in Keyworth, East Bridgford, Radcliffe and .

Whether dining in our fine restaurants, calling for a takeaway or even having our chefs delicately prepare the most sumptuous fragrances and flavours for you in your home, you’ll sense genuine warmth as we turn food and passion into the most delightful Indian dishes.

Vibrant colours, rich texture and the finest flavours...... a journey of fulfilment through delight. Proud Sponsors of Keyworth Rugby Football Club

Tel: 0115 937 7037 / 0115 937 7370

The146 ISSUE Hall, 51 Road, Keyworth. NG12 5FB HARLEQUINS

Welcome to a finer dining experience. Contemporary Indian Cuisine restaurant & collection

The magic of age-old, distant Indian recipes, brought to the heart of Nottinghamshire and blended with a contemporary twist using fresh, local produce leaves our customers satisfied in a way they say, “only taste can describe”.

Indian Nights offers authentic and delicious Indian flavours, with restaurants and takeaways in Keyworth, East Bridgford, Radcliffe and West Bridgford.

Whether dining in our fine restaurants, calling for a takeaway or even having our chefs delicately prepare the most sumptuous fragrances and flavours for you in your home, One recent Youth Rugby scrum half is now playing first team rugby, you’ll sense genuine warmth as we turn food and passion into the most delightful Indian combining well with his father, at No 8! There are several others dishes. that we expect to step up towards the end of this season. We also host local school competitions for Years 11 and 12 as we have the facilities to do this.

The Club is not at the heart of the Community but makes itself Vibrant colours, rich texture and the finest flavours... available for Community functions, providing the facilities for camping weekends, a village quiz, an election voting post, horse ...a journey of fulfilment through delight. and cart weekends, hunting meetings, parish council meetings and children’s birthday parties and 50th birthday parties to name but a few!

The next 5 to 10 years provide some strong challenges to the Proud Sponsors of Keyworth Club. Whilst we are not looking to grow rapidly, we would seek to increase to 3 playing sides over the next few years, particularly with the help of the 2015 World Cup and the Legacy campaign. The biggest challenge is to retain and recruit players as players Rugby Football Club retire and younger players gain the skills to play senior rugby and remain in the area – we are not especially close to any universities or colleges.

We have launched some significant publicity via posters and personal contact which is starting to pay dividends, particularly at the junior age groups. Our target is to also become more involved with the Community and provide a more central service to the locals and other organisations. We would like to attract a ‘Summer’ Club as the ground is less used for sport/activities in the summer Tel: 0115 937 7037 / 0115 937 7370 period.”

The Hall, Nottingham Road, Keyworth. NG12 5FB www.rugbyclub.biz 147 WELWYN FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG WELWYN

Hobbs Way /// www.pitchero.com/clubs/welwynrfc /// Founded 1931

Welwyn RFC was originally established in 1931 and their first team currently competes in the London 3 North West A fresh approach League. They are always pleased to welcome new players of all standards and have a superb team behind the to selling your scenes with coaches Andy Riley and Jovan Masalunga and Captain Peter home. Elliott leading the way on the playing side of things.

The club has a history of producing high quality players and some of the most notable include John Wackett who represented England in 1959. In the 70s Steve Bates played scrum-half for Welwyn before going on to represent Wasps before winning his first cap against Romania in 1989.

More recently MBE played for Welwyn RFC before going on to greater things. He has been capped for England many times and was also a part of the 2003 World Cup winning side. He also earned a place in the 2009 British and Irish Lions squad.

This season their first team have made a superb start to their current campaign, having put together a record of 10 wins and just 2 defeats from their first 12 matches. This sees them lying in 2nd place in the table with 48 Nigel Adams is proud to sponsor Welwyn RFC points on the board. 10% reduction on our low fees for club members. This should provide them with the perfect platform from Call 01707 817844 for a free no-obligation valuation. 01707 817744 which to build as they head into the 2nd half of the

148 ISSUE 51 TWITTER /// @WelwynRugby WELWYN

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campaign. As long as they can retain their current group of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions they will be in with a good chance of mounting a title challenge. Independent One of the highlights of the team’s performances this Physiotherapy season has been the attacking brand of rugby that they have managed to produce. This is reflected by the fact and Sports Injury that they are currently the top scorers in the league, having racked up 384 points already. Clinic We specialise in treatments for musculoskeletal This will certainly have ensured that any supporters problems, sports injuries, orthopaedic rehabilitation, attending their fixtures have been well entertained and back and neck injuries. should encourage more of the local community to get behind the team in the future. This has the potential to provide them with a valuable source of additional revenue.

Welwyn also recently entered a side in the Herts Returning Students Festival which is a 10 a side tournament for players that were under the age of 23 years old on September 1st 2014. Our team offers a variety of treatments including soft tissue After taking the decision to rest some of their first team massage, manipulation, mobilisations, exercise prescription, players due to a busy schedule the team entered still ultrasound, electrotherapy, biotherapy laser and acupuncture. played some high quality rugby as they made it through their group. They then defeated Old Albanians in the semi- Why not put yourself in the hands of our trained physiotherapists. final by 24-10 to make it to the final. This proved to be a Contact us today on 01438 716838 to make an game to far for as they went down to Old Merchant Taylors appointment. who took the title for the 3rd consecutive year. Opening Times There is much to admire about the set up that Welwyn RFC 8am-8pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday currently has in place. This should enable them to look 8am-7pm Wednesday and 8am-4pm Friday forwards to a bright and successful future for many years to The Vineyards 15a Codicote Road, Welwyn, Herts AL6 9NE come and everyone at Rugby Club Magazine would like to Email: [email protected] wish them the best of luck for the future.

www.rugbyclub.biz 149 GALWEGIANS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG GALWEGIANS

/// www.galwegians.ie /// Founded 1922

Galwegians RFC have played a vital role in the Connacht rugby community for more than 90 years and currently compete in Division 1B of the Ulster Bank League. They are led by the team of President Joe Healy and Chairman Paul Shelly and have made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance.

Since first being established in 1922 the club has put together a history of which they have every right to be proud and hold the record for the most Connacht Senior Cup triumphs with more than 25. In recent times they recorded 3 consecutive Connacht Cup Victories and two doubles between 2000-2002.

They also have a superb record of producing IRFU Presidents Henry Anderson, Johnny Glynn, CP Crowley, John Moore, Bobby Deacy and Don Crowley all holding the role. Billy Glynn has also held the role of IRFU Senior Vice President.

This season their first team has been in fine form, having put together a record of 8 wins and just 3 defeats from their 11 matches. This sees them sitting proudly atop the table with 39 points on the board. This should provide them with the perfect platform from which to build as they look ahead towards the rest of the campaign. So long as they are able to retain their current group of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions they will be in with a great chance of claiming the league title.

One of the highlights of the team’s performances so far has been the attacking brand of rugby that they have been producing up to now. This has been reflected by the fact that they are one of the top scorers in the league with 219 points on the board.

This has certainly meant that any of their supporters have been well entertained and should encourage more of the local community to get behind the club. This in turn has the potential to provide them with a valuable source of additional revenue.

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THE FRONT DOOR PUB, CROSS STREET / HIGH STREET, GALWAY. T: 091 563 757 E: [email protected]

www.rugbyclub.biz 151 GALWEGIANS FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG

Galwegians is not a club to focus solely upon their senior section however and they also have a thriving youth section which is one of the biggest in the country. Their Academy has become one of the most vibrant at the club with over 350 players that are supported by around 40 coaches and team managers.

The club states on their official website that, “The main aim of the Academy is to provide a safe and fun environment for young people to learn how to play top quality rugby.” They have players from the ages of 6 to 15 involved every Saturday morning whilst their 16 to 19 year olds train on week nights. It will certainly be interesting to see how their youngsters can progress over the coming years.

There is much to admire about the set-up that Galwegians RFC currently has in place and this has provided the platform for their on the field success.Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck for the future.

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www.rugbyclub.biz 153

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