Sport In Profile 002

BC CRAWLEY UNITEDBC CRAWLEYUNITEDBC Crawley United’s preparations are well DELIVERSunderway as they get ready to compete in theNational League this season. Sport in Profile subwayhighstreet.co.ukMagazine caught up with their Manager andCoach Donatas Jurgelionis to find out more. BUY ANY Breakfast OPEN TILL FOOTLONG available 3.30 AMInvolvement SUB FOR for on Friday &He told us, “BC Crawley United was founded by myself and £4.99 VALID delivery Saturdaycurrent team captain Tadas Domkus in April, 2013. The club ON MONDAY & New Delivery Timeswas founded with the aim of bringing National Level basketball TUSEDAYS FREEto Crawley town. DELIVERY 7:30am to 10pmFor the last few years there was no basketball club in Crawley in RH10 & RH11that could offer the chance for talented basketball players to STEAK AND CHEESE SUB Monday to Sunday Minimum order £9.99 or £2 deliveryperform at the National Level which was a shame as we saw alot of talented players around that had no option to play semi 01293 514514 / 614591 charge for orders under £9.99Professional basketball locally.” Subway, 95 High Street, CrawleyFoundation FREE DELIVERY IN RH10 & RH11“We decided to have a go; we built the club from scratch asking Minimum order £9.99 or £2 delivery charge forall known players to come and play for us. At the same timewe were completing the club administration to undertake all orders under £9.99necessary work regarding club development. We appliedto play in the Sussex Basketball League and the result wasoutstanding; just in the first year of the club‘s history we becameSussex Basketball League Champions, winning 18 games outof 20.Our winning path attracted local newspapers, we started toget articles after every game we played, local people startedto visit our website and step by step we became one of thebest known basketball clubs in Sussex. In the upcoming seasonBC Crawley United will represent Crawley town in the EnglandBasketball National League and we are working hard to beready to perform well, even at national level.”The Role“The most challenging aspect for me is the club’s sponsorship.Our club still a very young in terms of playing history and a lotof local businesses still do not recognize our brand. Others justprefer to sponsor the most popular sports such as football orrugby.However by the newest statistics, basketball now is thenumber four sport based on public interest and more and morespectators are visiting our home games. BC Crawley United is www.sportip.co.uk 51

BC CRAWLEY calling all local businesses to take a part in“ UNITED the club‘s sponsorship and help us to keep playing and growing.52 ISSUE 02 Atmosphere “The mood here is very positive in terms of team spirit. We are now training hard as National League will be a new challenge for us. Time to time, as I mentioned before, there are some financial problems that arise, but we stay positive and are trying to keep going forwards.” Youth “Young players are always important for any us. We are looking forward to establishing our branded basketball school here in Crawley. We tried to approach a local Council for some financial solution regarding this Project, but unfortunately it did not come to anything. Local sport authorities are looking for benefits to as many people as possible and when I answered the question ‘how many players are in our team? (which is currently 13)’ they said we cannot offer any financial support to your club as it is beneficial only to a few individuals. The Council got our message totally wrong: first of all we need to establish the team, be able to play good level basketball, create our brand because of that and achieve good results in terms of winning. That way “Just in the first year of the club‘s history we became Sussex Basketball League Champions, winning 18 games out of 20.

BC CRAWLEY UNITEDwe would become an attractive basketball icon forthe local youth, where everyone wishes to play.Achieving this stage would mean we can offer tothe local public and youth a well-established, wellknown basketball school where we could raise a lotof future talent. So firstly we started to work with ourmain team, creating the basketball icon for the localyouth and I think after this season we would be ableto progress to the basketball school stage.”Challenges“If all our plans will go successfully, in 5 years’ timewe definitely will be in need of a big home venue,where we could start to play at the highest possiblelevel. Of course all projects must have funds andafter five years they should be big enough toproceed with all of it. I think in term of club growththe challenges are always big, as tomorrowsclub needs always to be bigger than yesterdays.Otherwise we stop progressing.”Ambitions“We want to become England‘s Basketball LeagueDivision 1 (EBL) or even British Basketball League(BBL) club and perform in the international arenas.Basketball is the kind of sport that needs to besupported by sponsorship at any level – evenfamous Euro league teams are sponsored. So if weapproach the right people at the right time and areable to build a good enough budget for the club, Ican’t see why not?” www.sportip.co.uk 53

SHETLANDSHETLANDShetland RFC is a great example of a club that plays a vital role in their local community.Sport in Profile Magazine caught up with their President Forbes Hogg to find out more aboutthe set up they have in place.InvolvementHe told us, “I got into rugby at schoolwhen a new young science teacherwanted to start a school team, sotrawled through the senior school forraw rugby talent. As one of the 3 biggestguys in 6th Year, I became a prop in ourfledgling team! It was not a great year,but I got a game for Drumpellier 3rds,giving me a first taste of senior rugby.When at Art College, I dropped rugbyfor more esoteric pursuits, then afterteacher training, I got a first teachingjob in Buckie, where I fell in with BanffRugby Club, as a founder member, ifmy memory serves me well. So whenI moved to Shetland in 1979, it waslogical I got involved with Lerwick RFCas it was known as then. Since then, Ihave had a constant involvement withthe Shetland Rugby Club.”The Role“The most challenging part of my role isthat Shetland is a small place meaninga small membership and so a small,dedicated core of people does mostof the donkey work running the club.Like many older members, I have hadseveral roles in the club for many, manyyears, and it does get wearing at times.Also, the huge costs involved intraveling south, with a 14 hour overnightferry journey each way 10-12 times ina season is a major challenge! Teamstraveling up complain about the costand only have to do it once a season. Ithas been calculated that the Club caneasily clock up 6500 plus miles in aseason for our away games.The most rewarding thing is the prideI have in being a member of the Club,being elected president for quite a fewyears now. Watching the guys play,especially if they get a win alwaysmakes me quite emotional! I spent toolong at art school! Also, seeing thejunior numbers grow, the rise of our 54 ISSUE 02

We proudly fly the flag “ SHETLAND for Shetland, as the only Shetland sports team Ladies section and our entry into the National leagues is a source“participating in a National of pride.” League set-up. Atmosphere “Everything is quite buoyant just now – we were promoted last season and finished comfortably in the middle of the league table, so the guys are looking to build on this in the coming campaign. The Junior section finished in a very healthy position before the summer break and we all hope it continues to grow and progress. The U18s entered the leagues last season and this year, the U16s and the U18s are both entered into league and cup competitions. The growth of the ladies team has added a new dimension to the feeling in the Club too, so all in all, things are on the up and up!” Community “We are an important part of the local area – it is a club for the community, I like to think of it as a club for all the family. We proudly fly the flag for Shetland, as the only Shetland sports team participating in a National League set-up. That is a constant source of pride for us all. Youth is the lifeblood of this Club. For years, the membership was steady but ageing. When we set up our youth programme with the help of Paul Woods, it took a few years to get really established, but is a major part of the Club now. The injection of youthful players coming up from the Junior section is what has allowed an Island system of 23000 plus population to have some success in the National leagues.” Ambitions “Our ambition is to consolidate our League status, winning promotion if possible. We also want to get junior teams well established and to develop women’s rugby even more to get funding in place to build our own clubhouse, securing the financial future for the Club.” www.sportip.co.uk 55

SHETLANDJewson is proud to be lead sponsor ofthe Shetland Rugby Club. The Jewsonbranch in Lerwick supplies buildingmaterials across the Shetland Islesand plays an active part in the localcommunity within which it operates.With over 600 branches across the part of. At Jewson our sponsorshipscountry, Jewson is the UK’s leading directly reflect the preferences ofsupplier of sustainable timber and our customers, and rugby is verybuilding materials. Jewson offers popular with the trade.”the widest range of quality materialsand products from everyday core “Because of the team’s successessentials to the last sustainable they have had great visibilityinnovations. across Scotland, but inevitably this means additional travel costs. TheThe Shetland Rugby Club sponsorship helps to support thissponsorship is a three year deal and allows the team to expand towhich helps the team acquire new new heights.”playing kits for the Men’s rugbysections and their coaches, bearing Brian Leask from Shetland Rugbythe Jewson logo. Club said, “The partnership with Jewson allows us to continueSteven Laidlaw, Branch Manager developing the team and travellingat Lerwick commented, “We are across Scotland to compete atdelighted to be working with the higher levels. The branch staff andShetland Rugby Club. Rugby is a customers support the team whichgreat British sport which allows is great for moral, and this also helpspeople from all backgrounds to get to further present the Jewson brandinvolved which is fantastic to be a in our community.”For more information on Jewson visit jewson.co.uk56 ISSUE 02

CLUB Download our Jewson App today! What we can offerAs the UK’s leading supplier of sustainable timber and building materials we offer a hugerange of products from your everyday trade essentials through to the latest sustainablesolutions - all backed up by excellent service from our friendly, knowledgable staff.BUILDING MATERIALS TIMBER LANDSCAPING DECORATING DOORS & JOINERYHAND TOOLS POWER TOOLS ROOFING TOOL HIRE CIVILS www.sportip.co.uk 57

COVENTRY JETSCOVENTRY JETSCoventry Jets American Football Club is a great example of a well-run, progressiveestablishment. Head Coach Paul Rickhuss took the time to tell us more about the club andthe good work that they’ve been doing.He said, “I have been involved withthe Coventry Jets since the end ofseason 2004. I started playing inthe 2005 season as a linebacker,then quickly moved to a d-linemanand then ended my playing careerin 2011 at which time I had playedas an offensive lineman for around3-4 years.After 2011 I took over as HeadCoach from the very successfulGerry McManus where I have beenever since. Some of my favouritememories from playing were the6 finals I played in and Europeangames. My 2 fondest memorieswere 2008 when we won theNational Championship against theLondon blitz and went 10-0 and mysecond is this year as a Head coachafter rebuilding the Jets we madethe play offs for the first time since2010 so I was very proud of all myplayers and coaches.After the 2014 season I would saythe mood of the JETS is hungry forsuccess and getting better on thefield in all age groups. We feel ouryouth and junior teams are veryimportant to the Jets as a feederand to help develop our team overthe years. Also it helps developyoung minds to be part of a teamso it is a very important part of ourdevelopment as a club.We feel we have a great transitionalprogramme from youth to Juniorrto adult by having seasons thatstart off all together as a warm upso everyone knows everyone. Asfor being a community club weare in the heart of the community,we go to schools if asked and try 58 ISSUE 02

COVENTRY JETSto get involved in as many Everything you need and more...community events, such asthe evening Telegraph has Wide range of Great pricesinvited us to, the Combe quality timber & just for youAbbey meet and greet. building materialsAs the head coach of the Friendly, Reliable deliveryJets since 2011 myself personal team serviceand the committee havegiven ourselves a 5 year Your Local Travis Perkins:plan to make the playoffsand basically turn our team Coventry Branch, Lockhurst Lane, Coventry, Warwickshire. CV6 5NJaround so, we are quite Tel: 024 7668 6100 Fax: 024 7668 7046chuffed that we have done Email: [email protected] in 3yrs. Now our biggestchallenge is to keep growingand developing our clubeach year by getting biggerand stronger with numbersof players, sponsors andwinning big games on thefield. I truly believe the Jetswill be national championsonce again.”Speaking to the club’s officialwebsite after their play-offexit Rickhuss said, “I wasso proud of each and everyplayer out there today. Wehad to play many players outof position to cover injuredand missing players, not oneof them complained they justplayed their hearts out. It hasbeen a good season for theJets we have progressedso far, we fully intend toprogress even further in2015.” 82422 TP Coventry Press Ad 180x124 v1.indd 1 23/09/2014 16:29 www.sportip.co.uk 59

MILNTHORPEMILNTHORPEFirst established in 1863, Milnthorpe CC plays their home games at The Recreation Field onPark Road in Cumbria. They are led by the team of President Gordon Wilson and ChairmanKevin James and the club is looking to progress under their guidance.In 2014 their first team managed to with their juniors are confident a numberput together a solid campaign as they of them have the potential to have a brightcompiled a record of 9 wins, 6 draws and future.7 defeats from their 22 matches. This sawthem finish in a safe mid-table position In order to help their youngsters to makewith 169 points on the board. the sometimes difficult transition into the senior game Milnthorpe also have a 2ndThis should provide the team with a solid team running. This allows them to giveplatform upon which to build as they look players experience of adult level cricketahead towards their 2015 campaign. As even if they are not yet consideredlong as they are able to retain their current ready for first team action which can begroup of players and perhaps make one or an important step in the developmenttwo quality additions they should be in with process.a good chance of claiming a higher leaguefinish next time around. Another benefit of having more than one side is that it allows the first XI to benefitOne of the highlights of the Milnthorpe set from far greater strength in depth. If theyup is the superb youth section that they are ever left short on numbers throughhave in place. This part of the club looks injury or work commitments they have theto provide young players from the local option of calling players up with a limitedarea with an opportunity to play the game amount of disruption.in a safe and enjoyable environment whilsthelping them to reach their full potential. There is much to admire about the set-up that Milnthorpe currently has in place andIt is important for any side to be able to this is thanks to all of the hard work thatproduce their own talent if they are to their Committee has put into making thebe successful, particularly in the current club a success. Hopefully they will be ablefinancial climate. Coaching staff involved to continue to make progress for many years to come.60 ISSUE 02

MJW KAWASAKIMJW KAWASAKIPhotos provided by Jack Knoops www.sportip.co.uk 61

MJW KAWASAKIMJW Kawasaki was a newly formed team ahead for 2013 and they wasted no timeestablishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with as they managed to win the MaxisBritish Championship in their first year. They also run a youth team which has the aim ofdeveloping young British motocross talent.Towards the end of August the team “We managed to “received a significant boost as both make some goodPreston Williams and Lewis Woods were changes and by theable to return from injury ahead of the GT final race of theCup at Hilton Moto Park and also the MX weekend I felt muchNationals at Pontrilas. more confident about everythingSpeaking to their official website after and this showed inthe competition Preston Williams said, my results“I was pretty pleased with my results, Iscored my first points of the series andI was fourth in my class which I’m prettypleased with. I know what I have to workon for the forthcoming rounds.”In the GT Cup, Woods claimed 8thposition overall whilst Dan Shepherdcompeted in the Big Wheeled 85 classand came in in 11th overall. There weresome difficult racing conditions at the MXPro Nationals at Pontrilas thanks to somepoor weather conditions. On his return62 ISSUE 02

Preston managed to secure his MJW KAWASAKIfirst points of the season and willbe looking to use that as a platform www.sportip.co.uk 63from which to build.The team’s most senior rider, RobDavidson had a difficult weekendas he was forced to make lastminute changes to his bike andended up with an 11th place finishoverall.Speaking afterwards d he said,“The Saturday was really bad forme as I just didn’t gel with thetrack all weekend and thereforeI was having issues setting upmy Kawasaki. We managed tomake some good changes andby the final race of the weekendI felt much more confident abouteverything and this showed inmy results. It’s a tough first yearin the pro class and I am learningnew things each time I go out onthe Go&Fun Kawasaki, I’d like tothank Mark at MJW again for allhis help so far.”After a busy weekend Team ownerMark Woodage spoke to theirofficial website, saying, “It’s been abusy month for the boys and theyhave all been learning each timethey have gone out on track. Eachof them is progressing at everyround and I hope that continuesfor the rest of the season.Denny (Rapson) is currentlysitting out of racing at the momentafter breaking his leg, we wishhim all the best and his bike willbe waiting for him when he is fullyfit. We would also like to wish WillKeogh all the best with his GCSE’sand he’ll be back to racing beforewe know it.I will continue to develop theyounger riders and help themprogress through the ranks bygiving them the chance andopportunity to race within a team.They all work well together andI am confident by the end of theseason we will be reporting onsome strong results to finish theseason on a high.”

MJW KAWASAKINEW 2015 RANGEBrand Leaders. Available from all good dealersWWW.MRSLTD.CO.UK MALCOLM RATHMELL SPORT LTD 64 ISSUE 02 Tel 01423 772885 | Fax 01423 772205 | Email [email protected]

MJW KAWASAKIMalcolm Rathmell Sport have been sole UK Off Road Importers since 1991, Malcolm Rathmell,is a former British and Euro/World Trials Champion himself back in the 70’s created thebusiness with his wife Rhoda, initially importing the Italian made trials bike Aprilia.In 1999 they began to import the Spanish brand Sherco, now in 2014 “We are lucky “they are UK Importers for Sherco Trials and Enduro Bikes, Gaerne off now to haveroad boots, Airoh off road helmets, Clice Clothing, Braktec, Ipone Oil, two of theRQ, Neox and HZ Goggles, Domino and Nau. They are also the UK best brandsDistributors for Putoline Oil, Forcefield Body Armour, Michelin tyres on the marketand Galfer brake pads. with Airoh and Gaerne.Every year the company run their own Sherco Trials and Enduroteam these riders consist of male and female of all ages, this year hasbeen a successful year for MRS Sherco with young lady rider EmmaBristow who was crowned World Super Enduro Indoor Champion,British Ladies Trials Champion, World Trials Champion and was partof the winning Trial Des Nations team also.Alongside their very successful Sherco team, Malcolm RathmellSport also sponsor and support several riders with Airoh Helmetsand Gaerne boots in the Motocross and Enduro market, one of theseteams being the Go & Fun MJW Kawasaki team.We have found by sponsoring the younger riders in variousChampionships has been more beneficial for us as the sponsor, theyoungsters really appreciate the help you are giving and also talkactively amongst their peers, which we hope turn eventually intosales.By sponsoring a rider/s gives us the potential of having photographedproducts in the weekly and monthly press, which then gives usyearlong coverage, more beneficial to us than a monthly advert in amagazine.In our first year doing Gaerne Motocross boots we gave away 60 setsof boots to get the brand going and recognised in the UK. This is avery established brand now but it took around three years to promoteand get Gaerne noticed again in the UK. We are lucky now to havetwo of the best brands on the market with Airoh and Gaerne, bothmanufactured in Italy and two of the few companies that still producetheir products ‘in-house’.We took Importership of Airoh in June 2012, luckily this brand wasrecognised throughout the world as they sponsored and currentlysponsor the World Champions in Motocross. Over the years thecompany, Airoh, have won 55 World Championship with theirsupported riders proving that the best wear the best!The majority of the sponsorship comes from Malcolm Rathmell Sport,with the manufacturing companies being so big, very little help comesdirect from the factories as they have so many countries that theyservice it is impossible for them to give free products to everyone. Soit is down to us, the UK importer to dig into our own pocket to helpthe sport and be part of the future of an up-and-coming rider. We asa company like loyalty and appreciation, some riders have worn ourproducts since we have had them; we have riders who have riddennothing but Sherco for the last 13 years.We hope to continue to support our sport and enable it to grow furtherafield. You can see all our brands and products at www.mrsltd.co.uk www.sportip.co.uk 65

SURRCELYUSBTORMSURREY STORMBased at the Surrey Sports Club at the University of Surrey on Richard Meyjes Road, SurreyStorm is a terrific example of what a club can achieve with a good set up. Competing in theSuperleague last season they put together a superb campaign, compiling a league record of12 wins and 2 draws they finished at the top of the table with 38 points.Coach Tamsin Greenway took the time to Dover Garage (Ash) limited, a Kia dealer for over 19 years, thisspeak with Sport in Profile Magazine ahead month launched its extended sponsorship of Guildford based Surreyof the 2015 campaign. She told us, “The Storm Netball team. First announced back in June of this year, themood here at the moment is really good. activation today gives Storm fans some fantastic opportunities.We’ve got a long squad with 21 girls andwe’ve got to pick the final squad of 15 to go Alan Burrows, Director of Dover Garage Ash stated. “Dover Garageinto the season by the end of November. It’s (Ash) Ltd are proud to extend our sponsorship of Surrey Stormgood– we’ve got a nice mix of experience netball for a further two years. We look forward to developingand youth and have brought a few new our relationship further with the Surrey Storm, its fans and inplayers in. We’re looking forwards to getting the local area with the very successful Community programs.”back into competition now. The partnership which now sees Dover Garage Kia supportingLast season was a strange one because the end of season festival and various community roadshowsit has probably been our most successful will further enhance the Surrey Storm strategy of bringing moreseason with going unbeaten all year up Netball to the local community. Furthermore, Dover Garage willuntil the final. Obviously we’d have loved now also see its brand appear on the dresses for the first time.to claim the final piece of silverware at theend but you can’t knock the performance Roscoe Brown, Head of Partnerships for Surrey Storm “The firstfrom the girls. It was a pretty incredible year phase of our relationship brought Dover Garage an explosion ineven though we were disappointed to not brand awareness. This phase of our partnership is a more holisticcome away with the final win. approach where we can use our expertise and create a regional dialogue with our fan base.”We’re not looking for many changes thisyear. We’ve picked up England Captain For the latest offers on the Kia range call Dover Garage on 01252Pamela Cookey which is a great signing. 888618, go to our website www.dovergarage.co.uk or visitOne of the most important things for us our showroom at Guildford Road, Ash, Aldershot GU12 6BQ.is that we are a happy group with a reallygood team environment so there will be nomajor changes.Our targets with the way the league worksare to get into the top 4 and make the play-offs. You’ve always got a chance to win thetitle if we can do that. When you’re losingby one goal in the final we’re just looking forthe little things that will make the difference.66 ISSUE 02

Youth development is really important to SURREY STORMthe club, bringing through young talentis a major target of ours. Our youth side us the challenges are training twice a weektrains alongside us and because we’re a and making sure that when we get together werelatively new club it has been important make use of the time and build and learn fromthat we’ve built that programme as well. It’s games so that when we get into tight positionsbeen a gradual change bringing the youth we can come out with the victory.through and it is something that I’m reallypassionate about. The reality is I just want us to be successful. You can’t guarantee you’ll win the title every year butTeamwise, Manchester Thunder is going if we’re producing players, playing entertainingto be the team to beat and Hertfordshire netball and getting into the positions every yearMavericks will be right up there. I think for where we have a chance of winning then I think we’re a successful club.” www.sportip.co.uk 67

HEATH GAAHEATH GAAFirst established in 1888, The Heath GAA is a Gaelic Athletic Association Gaelic footballclub that is based in County Laois in Ireland. They were originally known as St.Patrick’sand played in the colours of scarlet and grey although they have now changed to black andamber.Since being set-up they have puttogether a history of which theyhave every right to be proud.In total they have managed towin 10 Laois Senior FootballChampionship titles with the lastof these coming in 1993 when theydefeated Ballyroan in a replay toclaim the trophy.They have also produced somehigh quality players such as ShaneHennessy, David O’Hara, MichaelClancy and Michael Lambe who allmanaged to play in an All-IrelandMinor Football ChampionshipFinal. 68 ISSUE 02

HEATH GAAMarty Dowling has represented the Laois senior 3135 [10'- ARCHITECTURAL 3135 [10'-football panel as have Daithi Carroll, Denis Boothand Chris Bergin in recent years. In 2012 they also TECHNOLOGIST1165 [3'-10\"] 900 [2'-11\"] 935 [3'-1\"]had 2 players on the Laois U21 panel, Ciaran Booth JESSOP S3T00.0,[9P'-10O\"] RTLAOISEand Mark Dowling , and Robert Dowling on the Laoisminor panel. 2'-11\"] 882.5 [2'-11\"] 900 [2'-11\"] 897.5 [2'-11\"]One of the standout features of the Heath GAA set up DESIGN PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTis the superb youth section that they have in place. 100 [4\"] 900 [2'-11\"]This part of the club looks to provide young players 900 [2'-11\"]from the local area with an opportunity to play the 1200 [3'-11\"]game in a safe and enjoyable environment whilsthelping them to reach their full potential. DAN K E A N E RIAI (ARCH TECH)1165 [3'-10\"] 900 [2'-11\"] 935 [3'-1\"] 1550 [5'-1\"] JESSOP ST., PORTLAOISE.It is important for any team to be able to produce their 2885 [9'-6\"]own talent, particularly in the current financial climate 057-868 1705/086 606 7637 1481[4'-1and this is an area that they appear to have covered. [email protected]/[email protected] www.dka.ieCoaching staff overseeing this part of the club are [7'-9\"]confident they’ve a number of juniors on the books [7'-6\"] 1930 [6'-4\"]with the potential for a bright future and it will certainlybe exciting to see how they develop over the coming 3000 [9'-10\"]years.In order to help these players to make the sometimesdifficult transition into the senior game they also run anumber of additional sides. This allows them to giveplayers experience of the adult game even if they arenot yet considered ready for first team action.There is much to admire about the set-up that HeathGAA currently has in place and this is thanks to all ofthe hard work that is put into making them a success.Hopefully they will be able to continue to play a vitalrole in their local community for many years to come. www.sportip.co.uk 69

TOTTCOLNUBIANSTOTTONIANSTottonians Rugby Club is a great example of a well-run, family establishment. Sport inProfile Magazine spoke with the club’s Secretary Graham Searle to find out more about thegood work that they’ve been doing lately.InvolvementHe told us, “I’ve been involved for 45years now. Rugby was my preferredsport at school so when a mates elderbrother Graham Gurd offered me achance to play for the club I jumpedat it. Graham is still a supporter of theclub and regular spectator at first teamgames both home and away which goessome way to showing once a Tottonianalways a Tottonian!”The Role“The most rewarding part of my role isseeing the club grow and the youngerplayers developing their skills as theymature, enjoying the game and beingpart of the club.Being a man of the era of the pen ratherthan the computer the most challengingis dealing with the plethora of rulesregulations surveys and informationthat the RFU throws at junior clubs -Bill Gates has a lot to answer for! After45 years it’s still about 30 individualscompeting with an oval shaped ball!”Atmosphere“The mood is good; we are turningout 4 senior sides a week - all playingcompetitive rugby with the 1st, 2nd and3rd XVs all winning their league games– the ladies have already played twogames. The Mini and Junior sectionmaintain teams at all age groups. Wehave a healthy bank balance whilst stilloffering one of the lowest membershipfees in the county and the social spacein the club has been re-decorated havingbeen successful in securing grants. It’sbeen a good start to the season, longmay it continue.”Youth“Youth rugby is absolutely key to the cluband the game’s continued development. 70 ISSUE 02

TOTTONIANSA large proportion of the clubs seniorsides are home grown including the1st XV which usually has in theorder of 80% home grown talent.The club is an RFU accredited clubwhich many clubs still aspire toensuring that the youth of the areaare receiving first class introductionand development of rugby skills ina safe controlled environment. Theyouth section also enables the clubto engage more fully with the localcommunity and schools. Julie Galeand her dedicated team ensure thatthe club continues to reap theserewards.”Integration“This is always a thorny one asregulations do not allow juniors toplay senior rugby so other wayshave had to be developed. Seniorcoaches and players engage withcolts and assist in targeted coltstraining sessions. When a colthas reached what is viewed as anacceptable level of maturity bothfrom a physical and skill perspectivethey are selected for the senior sidesusually starting out as substitutesand then progressing onto fullgames.There is a conflict though becauseyounger players should not beplaying twice over the week endand as both colts and seniors arein leagues the games have to bepicked without disenfranchisingsenior players. Colleges, Universityand girls all have an impact too.Challenges/Ambitions“Our biggest issue is a lack of grass;we have only two pitches and asmall training area at the club thislimits activity especially for youthrugby and senior training whichmeans we have to use pitches abouta mile away at a local school. With alack of available open ground in thearea a move to facilitate expansioncontinues to be problematic. Overthe next 5 years we are hopingfor expansion both in terms of ourplaying level and our facilities.” www.sportip.co.uk 71

TOTTONIANSTottonians RFC and R&M Electrical GroupR&M Electrical Group Ltd was formed in 1987. Over the years our sole objective has been tobecome specialists in what we believe to be the more interesting side of electrical distribution.Since that time we have become one of the largest independently owned Electrical Distributorsin the UK.Although our particular strengths lie in the Petro-Chem and Hazardous application areas, acrossthe UK nine R&M Electrical Branches operatein strategic areas offering a fully comprehensiveservice covering the sale and supply ofcommercial, industrial, marine and hazardousarea electrical equipment and related products.We are stockists for some of the world's leadingmanufacturers with each branch holding stockutilising a variety of different manufacturers. As aresult of this R&M with its diverse product rangecan supply solutions for all your electrical needswhatever your specific application. As well as ourUK stocking branches R&M have four specialistdivisions, R&M Cables in Bristol, R&M Fixings andSupports, R&M Assembly Division and a LightingDivision all based in Southampton. based inSouthampton and R&M Assembly Division basedat our head office.In addition to our electrical supplyier capabilitieswe have dedicated exports and projects divisions.These divisions have proved an unqualifiedsuccess with exports to over 80 countries world-wide winning many internationally significantcontracts and projects since being established in1996.R&M Electrical Group Ltd have been sponsors ofTottonians for 15 years and have strong links to theclub through our Chairman Brian Robinson. Brianhas been evolved involved with the Tottonians forover 20 years both as a coach for the junior sidesand the Colts and also by pulling his shorts backon for the first time since leaving the Navy to playfor the formidable Veterans side. Although he hasnow hung up his boots, Brian can still be found atthe club most Saturdays cheering on the hometeams and propping up Bulls**t Corner with therest of the former Veterans.Brian’s three sons, who all work at R&M, havealso grown up playing for the club and have allplayed from junior to senior level. R&M has alsoemployed a number of Tottonians Players overthe years and a number are currently employedat our head office in Southampton.With Tottonians current crop of players and theremarkable junior set up, R&M are proud to callourselves sponsors of such an amazing club andlook forward to a great future with a great club. 72 ISSUE 02

CLUB Proud Sponsors of Tottonians RFCThe R&M Electrical Group are one of the largest independent electrical distributors in the UK. Besides a number of specialistdivisions and branches in the UK, R&M have overseas branches in the Caspian Region, Kazakhstan, Iraq and the Middle East.Since our formation in 1987 R&M have been stockists for some of the world’s leading electrical manufacturers. As well as ourUK stocking branches we have five specialist divisions, our Lighting Division, a Marine Division and R&M Cables in Bristol, R&M Fixings & Support based in Southampton and R&M Assembly Division in Hedge End.If you wish to find out more about our company or find contact details for your local branch please visits our website or contact our Head Office on the details below. R&M Electrical Group Ltd Unit 1 & 2, 362A Spring Road, Sholing, Southampton SO19 2PBTel: 023 8034 1444 Fax: 023 8044 4366 Email: [email protected] www.rm-electrical.comR&M Electrical Group Limited is registered in England and Wales No. 2218034. www.sportip.co.uk 73Registered office: Units 1 & 2 362 Spring Road, Southampton, SO19 2PB, Hampshire. 005

AMLWCH TOWNAMLWCH TOWNAmlwch Town are a club that is making steady progress having implemented a rebuildingplan that they believe in. Sport in Profile Magazine caught up with their Manager AndrewWright to find out more.AtmosphereHe told us, “Despite the league positions of themen’s and ladies squads there is an overallpositive attitude within the club. Rome wasn’tbuilt in a day but over the last few seasons arebuilding process has started within the wholeclub and we feel everyone understands what ouraims are and what we are trying to achieve.”2014/15“As a club this season we are constantlydeveloping and maintaining the ground andthe pitch is in the best condition it has been foryears. Playing wise the seniors are competingwith most teams but the league doesn’t lie andour position at the moment isn’t where we’d liketo be, however it’s only a matter of time beforewe start moving up the table.Our Gaffer had 2 targets at the start of theseason which where Top 6 and a decent cup runwhich he’d still tell you are achievable, howeverwith almost a 3rd of the season gone we thinkprogression from last season at this point wouldbe a decent challenge so if we can get ourselvesout of the bottom 3 and into a comfortable mid-table position it would be seen as a steadydevelopment.As for the ladies squad, this is their first seasonin the league and to fulfil the season would be anachievement in itself as it all new to them. Theircommitment so far has been outstanding andalthough it’s all a new learning curve and resultsBritanniaValeting 18 August at 14:02 great valeting service -Raymond HumphreysFully Equipped workshop Full & Mini ValetingAvailable Day or Night Mobility & lease ReturnsCar & Commercial Contract & Business WorkFully Insured Vehicle Pick-up Service AvailableCONTACT IEUAN ON:Tel/Fax: 01407 830 461 · Mobile: 07776 355 077Email: [email protected]: www.britanniaveleting.co.uk 74 ISSUE 02

are tough at the moment their attitude speaks AMLWCH TOWNvolumes and wait till they finally get that first goal,never mind a win.” point and have reaped the benefits of playing for Amlwch Town Juniors FC squads during theirLinks development.”“We have good links with some of the higher Communityleague clubs and in the last 2 seasons our seniorside have been lucky enough to have pre-season “Over the last couple of years we have focusedmatches with youth sides from Bangor City, on becoming a community club forging strongColwyn Bay and Conwy Borough. This season links with other community organisations andhas also seen a working relationship develop with our facilities are the home of a local youth club.Bangor City FC Academy and hopefully this will We have also introduced other sports at the clubonly get stronger and benefit both clubs in the and have hosted regular rounders sessions,process.” a boot camp and even a rugby game... hence introducing new sports to our club. Also, like everyYouth other amateur club we rely on the generosity of sponsors and fundraisers to survive, especially in“As a community club youth football is a vital part the current economic climate.of our club and one of the highlights of last seasonwas a home match where all 16 squad players However, at ATFC we like to give something backhad represented the Amlwch Town Juniors FC wherever we can, especially when it comes toset up at some point in their development. charity and good causes and have helped various causes over the years.Although they are 2 separate organisations theseniors are always ready to help out and games Facilitiesare often played at our Lon Bach ground bythe junior teams and the evidence of the youth “In addition to focusing on becoming a communityplayers currently turning out for the seniors is club, the last couple of seasons have also seen uskey to how important the partnership has been strive to improve our facilities for our supportersover the last few years. The current ladies squad which have been done when finances allow andalso has a number of young players who have when grant applications have been successful.been involved with the junior set up at some Recent projects include new hard standing, new fencing, a community garden and we are currently in the process of erecting a stand.” Challenges/Ambitions “As with all local sports clubs finding finance is the biggest threat with general running costs and affiliation fees etc. being an annual expenditure even before a ball is kicked. Like all clubs we rely on local sponsorship and fundraising events to keep our heads above water. Our ambitions are based around sustainability as a club and continued development of our ground along with the expansion of our community links. They say you should always aim high and why not... who’s to say that the good old days can’t be back at Lon Bach and some new silverware for us to polish so let’s put a league title in the 5 year plan. One of the main focus’s in the last few years was to have local players playing attractive football with the local community turning up at the ground to watch them and we believe we’re getting there and hopefully we can carry this forward over the next few years.” www.sportip.co.uk 75

BARROW ISLANDBARROW ISLANDBarrow Island ARLFC was first established in 1935 and have been playing competitiveRugby League ever/ since. They are celebrating their 75th anniversary this year and haveput together a history of which they have every right to be proud.Led by coach Paul Kavanaghthey enjoyed one of their mostsuccessful periods in the 1980’s.During this period they becamethe first Barrow and DistrictLeague team to win the CumbriaCup, defeating Kells in the final.They also managed to win atreble in 1984-85 as they claimedthe Barrow and District League,Knock-Out Cup and the Top 4.They claimed the Barrow andDistrict League twice more in1986-87 and 1987-88.Club Representative John Cleggtook the time to tell us more aboutthe good work the club is doingin the present day, saying, “I’vebeen involved here for 5 yearsnow. The club celebrated their75th Anniversary this year with agame of past and present playersagainst GB All Stars.I think one of the keys to ourlongevity has been the pool ofcoaches and committee membersthat have, over the years put in alot of hard work and hours.We are finding it difficult to attract “We always have kids “players, at the moment we cannot showing promise,decide if it is because we have 3 last year signed professional, well over RIMMERS 150 have gone on to represent their country, BODY REPAIRS county or town.INSURANCE & PRIVATE WORK. SPECIALISTS IN NON FAULT ACCIDENTS SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. TEL: 01229 433607 Unit 1D, Ashburner Way, Barrow-In-Furness LA14 5UZ76 ISSUE 02

BARROW ISLANDgone to summer rugby or just a general decline in The Johnson family here at Jeffersons Hotel & Apartmentspeople wanting to play sports or a combination of we are very proud of our long term association with Barrowthe two. Island RLFC. We are located in Barrow town centre and offer a wideTherefore youth rugby is very, very important and range of traditional bar meals from 11am - 8pm 7 days ait is our main goal to keep this going, without kids week. In addition we also offer 27 bedrooms and three offthere is no future. We always have kids showing site apartments to let.promise, 3 last year signed professional, well over The work which the club carries out in the community has150 have gone on to represent their country, county been going on for many years and benefited thousands ofor town. This year we had 2 players represent GB people in the local area. Our opinion of the club couldn’t beBARLA on tour abroad, with around another 35 in higher (even if the SOS campaign failed) and for proof ofrecent years. that just look at our hotels name !!Apart from the obvious in keeping our youth section www.sportip.co.uk 77strong and players migrating to Open Age teams,we will possibly have 2 teams playing in the NorthWest Counties League, this takes a lot of fundingbecause of the travelling involved.We need to finish our club house extension andstart on the demolition and rebuilding of our oldchanging rooms, the costs involved will be around£100k, all of which we will self-finance one way oranother.” This should set the club up for a brightfuture and Sport in Profile Magazine would like towish them the best of luck.

SOUTH GOWERSOUTH GOWERBased on Pwlldu Lane in Swansea, South Gower RFC’s first team currently compete in Division3 West Central C of the SWALEC Leagues. They are led by Chairman Stuart Henson who issupported by Secretary John Haslam and have made a considerable amount of progressunder their guidance.The club has a history of which they have every right to be proudwith their roots going back to a meeting which was held in the ‘LongRoom’ at the Valley Hotel, Bishopston on the 8th January 1974. Themeeting was attended by 18 people and one boy at the former skittlealley.There aims were to bring the joys and disciplines of Rugby Unionto the young people in and around the Bishopton and South Gowerarea. Their first training session saw thirty eight children between theages of ten to 14 with teams being entered in the Swansea SchoolsLeague and Swansea Boys League shortly after.They have continued to do some tremendous work with youngstersin the years that have passed and still have a thriving youth sectionto this day. This part of the club looks to provide young playersfrom the local area with an opportunity to play the game in a safeand enjoyable environment whilst helping them to reach their fullpotential.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 thatthey appear to have covered. It will certainly be exciting to see howtheir juniors are able to develop over the coming years.At first team level they put together a strong campaign last timearound as they compiled a record of having won 12, drawn 1 andlost 3 of their 16 matches. This saw them finish near the top of theleague with 58 points on the board.A particular highlight of last season’s play was the attacking brand ofrugby that they managed to produce. This was reflected by the factthat they managed to rack up 467 points which saw them finish asone of the top scorers in the league.This certainly ensured that any supporters attending their matcheswere well entertained and should encourage more of the communityto get behind the club in the future. This in turn has the potential toprovide them with a valuable source of additional revenue.Their attentions will now have turned towards the 2014/15 campaignand getting off to a good start. As long as they are able to retaintheir current group of players and perhaps make one or two qualityadditions they should be well positioned for another successfulseason.There is much to admire about the set-up that South Gower currentlyhas in place and this is thanks to the hard work that their Committeeputs into making them a success. Hopefully they will be able tocontinue in the same manner for many years to come and everyoneat Sport in Profile Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck. 78 ISSUE 02

SOUTH GOWER RFCDelivering civil engineering solutions throughout England and Wales since 1979www.dyerandbutler.co.uk Airports Civil engineering maintenance and minor works Civil engineering projects M&E HVAC Building Building Waste facilities Industrial units Commercial units Railway & Underground Buildings Energy Electricity sub-stations Fuel transfer facilities Renewal Energy facilities Wind Energy Pipelines Highways Carriageway construction and highways reconstruction Cart parks, park & ride facilities Access roads, cycle ways and footpaths Embankments Public Realm Environmental enhancements High quality paving Hard and soft landscaping Traffic calming Rail Overbridge and underbridge construction and refurbishment Footbridge construction and refurbishment Works to platforms, canopies and stations Earthworks, embankments, rock cuttings River & Marine Fish passes, gauging stations, trash screens Flood alleviation and riverbank improvements River re-profiling and maintenance Quay walls Scour protection Port Facilities Waste Waste transfer stations Recycling facilities Energy from waste facilities Reinforced concrete slabs and push wallsWater Water treatment works Service reservoir construction Storm water & foul water sewers Packaged sewage treatment systems www.sportip.co.uk 79

WIDNESWIDNESBased on Heath Road in Cheshire, Widnes RUFC currently competes in the North One WestLeague. They are led by the team of Chairman Ged Snee and President Dave Robertson andthe club is looking to progress under their guidance.Having first been established in 1924,the club has put together a history ofwhich they have every right to be proud.They have developed tremendously welland were even able to turn out as manyas 7 senior sides in the late 60’s andearly 70’s. At that time they also had 3players in Jimmy O’Neil, Dave Balmerand Ronnie Clarke that representedEngland Colts.In terms of on the field success oneof their biggest victories came whenthey won the Lancashire Cup in 1976,defeating West Park in the final. In the1987-88 season they managed to winthe Lancashire Trophy making them thefirst club to have won both competitions. Teamwork is name of the game in Halton Another great summer of sport drew to an exciting conclusion in September, with crowds lining the streets of Runcorn and Widnes, in the Cheshire borough of Halton, to cheer on the Tour of Britain road race, as the second stage made its way from neighbouring Knowsley, to Llandudno. The welcome and enthusiasm of public to the tour demonstrated the importance the community in Halton places on sport. Halton Borough Council was instrumental in bringing the tour to the borough and is working hard to increase participation in sport and physical activity. Cllr Phil Harris is the Council’s Executive Board member for Community and Sport, he says: “Halton Borough Council knows the important role sport plays in developing a healthy and thriving community. That is why we set up the Halton Sports Partnership, and are working to inspire local people to get involved in sport and physical activity by making sure there are opportunities for all; that the right facilities are in place; and that quality coaches and support is in place to help those with talent to reach their full potential - from grassroots to excellence. The Halton Sports Partnership, established in July 2002, was an initiative of Halton Borough Council. It brings together clubs and volunteer representatives from a wide range of sports in Halton to encourage the promotion of sport and development of the sporting population of Halton. Cllr Rob Polhill, Leader of Halton Borough Council, is a big supporter of the work of the partnership saying: Clubs and volunteers, who work at the heart of the community, are so important to us in Halton. They give youngsters their first experiences of sport and instil values like teamwork, focus, discipline and working hard to achieve success – lessons that are important not just for sport but for life in general. The partnership the Council has with these clubs and with volunteers is second to none. With their involvement, we are improving local facilities, helping to maximise funding and offering support to coaches. We hope that in years to come our young people go on to achieve their dreams, sporting or otherwise. For more information about the work of the Halton Sports Partnership and Halton Borough Council’s sports development team visit www.haltonsportspartnership.org.uk 80 ISSUE 02

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WIDNESThis season the team has made apositive start to their league campaign,having put together a record of 5 winsand 2 defeats from their 7 matches. Thishas left them sitting just behind the earlypace setters with 26 points on the board.This should provide them with theperfect platform from which to build asthey look ahead towards the rest of theseason. So long as they are able toretain their current group of players andhave some luck on the injury front theywill have a good chance of mounting atitle challenge.One of the highlights of the Widnes set-up is the superb youth section that theyhave in place. This part of the club looksto provide young players from the localarea with an opportunity to play the gamein a safe and enjoyable environmentwhilst helping them to reach their fullpotential.It is important for any team to be ableto produce their own talent, particularlyin the current financial climate and thisis an area that they appear to havecovered. It will certainly be exciting tosee how their juniors can develop overthe coming years.In order to help their youngsters to makethe sometimes difficult transition into thesenior game they also have a numberof additional sides. This allows them togive players experience of adult levelrugby even if they are not yet consideredready for first team action.Another benefit of having so many sidesis that it allows the first XV to benefitfrom far greater strength in depth. If theyare ever left short on numbers throughinjury or work commitments they havethe option of calling players up with alimited amount of disruption.Widnes’ positive start to the seasonshould have the club filled with optimismfor the coming months. Hopefully theywill be able to continue with the goodwork that they have been doing formany years to come and everyone atSport in Profile Magazine would like towish them the best of luck. 82 ISSUE 02

CALDICOTCALDICOTFounded in 1961, Caldicot Rugby Club is based in Caldicot in Monmouthshire near Newportin the south of Wales. With four strong teams, the club acts as a feeder club for NewportGwent Dragons. Their home colours are black and white and, like other clubs and societiesin Caldicot, their logo is a swan.They are a club that plays a vital role in their local “The atmosphere here“community and Sport in Profile Magazine caught upwith their Secretary Keith Mellens to find out more is very positive atabout the good work that they have been doing. the moment and we are looking forwardInvolvement to next season with optimism andHe started by telling us about his involvement with the enthusiasm.club, saying, “I originally played rugby for the youthsection of the club in 1972 and have been a memberever since. Seeing players progress through our youthteam and then representing the club at senior level isone of the most rewarding factors of being involved.”Atmosphere“The atmosphere here is very positive at the momentand we are looking forward to next season withoptimism and enthusiasm. The youth team haveMOTORTORQUEMotor Repair Class VII MOT Unit 3. Castle Way, Severn Bridge Industrial Estate, Caldicot, Gwent NP26 5PRTEL: 01291 422094 www.sportip.co.uk 83

CALDICOTjust won the District Youth Plate and the Athleticteam have won the Newport, Pontypool and GwentDistrict Division 1 League title. Our first team havecompeted strongly in Division 4 East. We have ayoung squad and believe that the side will continueto improve next season.”Community“We are a community club providing opportunitiesfor all age groups. Youth rugby is very important tothe club and almost all of our senior squad originallyplayed youth rugby for us. We hold joint trainingsessions and give youth players the opportunity toplay senior rugby as soon as they are old enough.The facilities at the club are also used by othervoluntary groups and professional organisationswithin the local area. We have run training sessionsfor both ladies and girls this season. The uptake hasbeen rather disappointing but we will attempt to re-establish this in the future subject to demand.”Progression“Rhys Buckley played youth rugby for the club andhas recently joined Newport Gwent Dragons. MikePowell played for the club before progressing to the 84 ISSUE 02

CACLLDUICBOTOspreys where he captained the region against Australia. More “We have “recently Mike has played club rugby for Mosley and has also played a youngfor the Barbarians. Joe Davies has represented Wales at U17 level squad andand has recently played for the Newport Gwent Dragons.” believe that the side willChallenges/Ambitions continue to improve“The biggest challenge that we face is maintaining and developing nextour facilities within the constraints of the current economic season.restrictions. Over the coming years we would like to develop ourplaying strength at senior level and progress through the WRULeague structure by two divisions.”Training1st XV – Tuesday and Thursday evenings, meet at 6.30pm for6.45pm startAthletic XV, Youth XV and Veterans XV – Tuesday and Thursdayevenings at 7pmPresident: E. C. Jones, EsqChairman: Dai WilliamsGround Location: Longfellow Road, Caldicot,Monmouthshire, NP26 4JWPhone Number: 01291 420178 www.sportip.co.uk 85

DUNEDIN CONNOLLY’SDUNEDINCONOLLY’SEdinburgh’s GAA club, Dunedin Connolly’s GFC, are rapidly becoming one of the mostexpansive and well-known of all the gaelic football clubs across the United Kingdom. Based inthe Scottish capital, Connolly’s are a growing example of a finely run club for how they havemade such prominent inroads in not only men’s and ladies football, but also in the nurturing oftheir underage development.Formed in 1988 by Belfast-born,Anthony Haughey, the club had a veryhumble beginning which required a hugeamount of grit and determination. Withina few months of the initial discussionat an Irish dancing event in Leith Walk,the club would soon have a name, clubcolours, a home pitch and of course theability to field a team; notably made upof indigenous Scots and immigrant Irish.The club’s name would derive from theGaelic language’s translation of the word‘Edinburgh’ whilst the colours of navyand green were adapted to perfectlyreflect the joint Irish-Scottish heritage ofthe new club.Yet by 2003 – some 15 years into their existence – Connolly’s had only asingle Scottish championship to their name (1994) and only a memory-bankof unfulfilled promise and regret to behold. Things however were about totake a turn for the better. Much better.The growth of University-based championships provided ample ground forConnolly’s to gather new talent and this would aid them in their successfulquest at becoming the most dominant force in Scottish football. Players weresuddenly choosing to stay on and pursue careers in Scotland as opposed toreturning to Ireland and this has helped generate them nine titles in elevenyears.As well as this, they also would become the first ever Scottish side to lift anAll-Britain title in 2009 after being led to this accolade by current manager,Cormac O’Gara.Ladies Football:Similarly to its male equivalent, ladies football at Connolly’s also experiencedsomething of a modest beginning. Their first ever training session at TheMeadows in 1998 had only three players in attendance. One of which wasthe team’s founder, Suzanne Dillon, who had to lead by example that nightby still partaking in the session even though she was adorning her workuniform.Things would greatly improve, however. Through careful deliberation andplanning that went on for more than a decade of management, Alan Ward 86 ISSUE 02

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DUNEDIN would slowly-but-surely build a team from scratchCONNOLLY’S and have them compete in Sevens tournaments and at University blitz events across the country.88 ISSUE 02 This patience would then be rewarded in early 2013 when Damien Holahan took over. Within a few short months, Holahan’s squad grew in both numbers and talent and after breaking the mould by winning the Paidí O’Sé Invitational tournament, their appetite was whetted and they went on to lift the All-Britain Junior Championship the same year. They would even go so far as to play in the All-Ireland final and despite a defeat on that particular day, their mark was being made. This season, the ladies of Dunedin Connolly’s are playing in the higher-ranking Intermediate All- Britain Championship as well as competing in the newly formed Scottish league and championship series. They have already lifted the league this season and remain in strong pursuit in their bid to take all the honours that are on offer to them, recently making it to the final of the British Championship. Underage Development: The youth programme at the club, Dunedin Og, is arguably the most envied in the country. Spearheaded by County Chairman, Niall Considine, the club boasts a large membership of kids from a variety of ethnic backgrounds and this has seen the emergence of an underage schools league being born in and played throughout the city. These stars of the future have also been known to acquit themselves perfectly in other tournaments and blitz events that are not only confined to Scotland, but also to London as well as Dublin where they have also sampled that special Croke Park atmosphere on club trips away. Club chairman, Peter Dillon, has overseen much of the club’s development since he took up the mantle in 2007. There’s no question that he has seen great changes for the better, yet he still remains adamant and focused on attaining further improvements. With continued growth in sponsorship and recognition, the aim has been set to not only remain as the dominant force in Scotland, but to become one of Britain as well. Going by the way such solid advances have been made already on the field, backed the superbly welcoming family-feel and comrade they show off it, who would bet against them reaching such a target in the near future? Definitely, this is a club to stand up and take note of for both now and the years to come. By Jonathan Foley, Dunedin Connolly’s PRO

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