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BELFAST HARLEQUINSsignificant event for the city can kick on in the second halfas a whole. of the season. If they keep working as hard as they have Up to now the clubs most been so far then they shouldsuccessful season came in be in with every chance ofthe 2004-05 season when going on to challenge forthey managed to claim 3rd honours come the end of theplace in the league. They then season.went on to play in the end ofseason play-offs which were To complement the seniorheld at the historic Lands- side the club also has a num-downe Road. Unfortunately ber of additional senior sides.they narrowly lost the final to This allows them to haveShannon but it was a great far greater depth than theyexperience for the club. would have had otherwise and has the added bonus of The club is currently run providing more players in theby the team of President Mr area with the opportunity toKelly Wilson and Chairman play the game.Mr DC Gillespie. Under theirleadership the club is aiming Belfast Harlequins alsoto establish itself as one of place a strong emphasis uponthe best sides in Ireland. The developing young players atfirst team is managed by the club and they have youthhead coach Mr Adam Larkin teams in place to help give youngsters the chance to So far this season Belfast develop their skills. With thisHarlequins have produced approach the Belfast Harle-some good form and have quins should certainly be inmanaged to put themselves for a bright future.in a position from which they www.rugbyclub.biz | 51

DEWSBURY CELTICDEWSBURY CELTICDewsbury Celtic RLFC is one of the oldest rugby league clubs in thecountry having started as Dewsbury Shamrocks in 1879 and everyonelinked to set-up is looking forward to the big kick off to the RugbyLeague season shortly.Rugby Club Magazine one of that move which has spoke to Paul Heaton seen us put a new entrance recently to find out onto our fields and sort outmore about the Park Parade car parking spaces, sewageestablishment. and groundwork connections which will be used once theMOVING FORWARD clubhouse is built. However,I’ve been involved since 1998 the current funding climate isand at that time we only had very different than it was 5-10one team on the go. We’d had years ago. Positively, the clubjuniors in the past who were is in the best shape it’s everaffiliated to another local side been in and we’ve more kidsand created our own junior playing than ever before.”side in 1999.This new seasonwe want to push on be pro- If Celtic can continue tomoted to Division 1 and are move forward with purposecertainly aiming to be at the as they have done in the lasttop end of the table again. few years I see no reasonTraining has been very good, why the club can’t continueobviously for any amateur to be one of the leadingteam work commitments lights within the game.play a part, but every session Bradford Bulls Head Coachhas gone really well so far. We Francis Cummins recentlywill need to now transfer that held a coaching session forhard work into matches when Dewsbury Celtic U12’s andthe season kicks off shortly.” a super time was had by all who got involved. For moreWORKING HARD information about the club“Over the last twelve years and to find out about newswe’ve been trying to get and events check out - www.funding to get our own club- pitchero.com/clubs/dews-house. We’ve started phase burycelticrlfc52 | ISSUE 32

CAERPHILLYCAERPHILLYGwent Rugby Club Magazine ment. Our junior section isestablishment spoke to a few key also professionally run withCaerphilly RFC figures at Virginia Park many helpers involved and awas formed in last month. load of talent on display.”1887, meaning2012 was its Mike Johns - Hon Secretary COMMUNITY125th year in existence. The YOUTH “We’ve grown in statureclub has experienced many “The Youth and the jun- by being recognised as ahighs throughout the years ior section of the club are community club within theincluding promotion to the paramount to our on-going region. We run a junior sec-Heineken Leagues in 1993 and future success, after the tion with ages under 8s toreaching the European Parker demise of top flight rugby the under 16s, we operate twoPen shield final in 2003 and progression of our Youth has girls teams and a youth. Wethe Konica Minolta final in fulfilled both of our senior help the borough by allowing2004. squads. They are vital to our them to utilise our pitch for clubs existence because the district, schools and regional future is all about develop- games. Also many organisa- tions utilise our club house facilities.” www.rugbyclub.biz | 53

CAERPHILLYFACILITY of £15k each year, we have liams played for Wales in the Phil Emanuel - Chairman“We get very positive com- hosted for over 10 years.” International sevens series.ments both on facilities, wel- And last season both Lewis “Our Future off the field willcome and catering. Our facili- DEVELOPMENT Rawlins and Jamie Sollis two be dictated by our ability toties were updated and built “All our current young play- of our former youth players turn our facilities from beingfor a higher league structure ers are developing, we are represented Cross Keys in the focused on delivering tradi-which far out way our cur- a young side and some of final of the British and Irish tional support to the playingrent league status. When we our team have come via the cup and the Welsh cup. Jamie side of the club to being ablecompeted in the top flight of Gwent Dragons academy. represented Wales in the to deliver a wider range ofWelsh rugby it was manda- Many players over the years junior world cup. Lewis has activities to the local commu-tory to have our facilities. have gained honours whilst also secured a place in the nity from both a social andNow a bit of a white elephant playing at the club. In the Scarletts academy.” business perspective.and under- utilised. We are early days prior to profes-also asked to host many other sional era some of too many CHALLENGES AND The long term goal is forfixtures and representative to mention are Roger Bidgood AMBITIONS the club to be playing rugbygames at the club. full Welsh cap, Ceri Jonathon “Most of our challenges will at the very top of the com- Welsh B cap, both Ceri and be based around finances. munity game, We are aware We have a link with the Dai Phillips played at Ponty- I also believe the game will that there is a lot of hardWelsh Rugby League acad- pool. Roger and Alun Billin- struggle attempting to gain work to be done to turn theemy that plays all their home ghurst played at Newport, new administrators, commit- dream into reality. A lot of thefixtures at the club during Christian Ferris Bridgend and tee personnel and helpers. building blocks are alreadythe summer months. The Brett Davey Wales Develop- However, we are still seeking in place. Once we all startlocal cricket club utilise our ment XV. Whilst the club was progression back to the top rowing the boat in the samechanging facilities and club in the top flight we had many flight with the help of all direction at the same time wehouse also during the sum- ex Wales international and our young and upcoming will be able to start our nextmer. We also utilise the club/ South Sea Islanders playing talent and hope to keep on journey in rugby.pitch to host Mega Day, this is for Caerphilly. Tongan inter- top of our facilities, pitch anda charity music festival held national Taunaholo Taufahe- clubhouse. We will certainly Watching the team playevery August bank holiday. ma gained his cap also whilst be looking into diversification in the European Final at theAll the funds go to the cancer playing for Caerphilly. Justin away from traditional income Madjaski and The Konica Mi-trust of Velindre hospital, Thomas and Andrew Wil- streams.” nolta Final at the Milleniumthis event raises in the region Stadium filled the club with pride but there was a great buzz around the club last54| ISSUE 32

CAERPHILLYseason when Jamie Sollis rep- Munster A and the SWALEC total admiration for those President, and have been forresented the Wales under 19’s cup final against Pontypridd people who went through the the past six years.  Duringin the junior World cup and RFC. good times. Without people this period I have seen manyalso When Jamie and Lewis Like Howard Rose who is changes both on and off theRawlins represented Cross I have only been involved now the club president, Mike field and also many changesKeys RFC in both the British for about 12 years so I missed Johns who is still secretary to the laws of the game. and Irish cup final against most of the glory years trot- and Brenda Watkins our office ting around Europe but I have manager, the club would not In later years, since the be where it is today.” advent of professional and semi-professional rugby, Howard Rose - President Players attitudes appear to have changed towards the  “I have been associated with game, which has affected the the Club for over 50 years continuity of administration having joined from school which used to mean a natural 1958/59. I served as a Player, progression of Players to former Captain, Commit- Committee.  Since 1980 I have tee Man, and Life Member also been involved with the and am currently the Club Mid District Rugby Union, to which the Club is affiliated, having held several posts including former Chairman and President of that organi- sation.”Peter Marshall - Marketing Director organised sponsors events. We have also gained a few new customers to our fantastic brand through our association with“We are proud to be a part of Caerphilly RFC and hope we have the club which is fantastic.”contributed to their success. We have been with the club fortwo years now and have enjoyed the welcome, including at the www.rugbyclub.biz | 55

CAERPHILLYBryan Candy of Club sponsor Kitchen Wizard Paul Wells, of Pacific Plant, has sponsored the Rugby Club for over 10 years and he recentlyrecently spoke to Rugby Club Magazine spoke to Rugby Club Magazine about his association with the club.“I moved to Caerphilly some 20 years ago, I am originallyfrom Rhonda. I was mainly a footballer in my youth although “My son Michael started playing mini rugby from the ageI did play a little rugby for my local team. I have twin boys of 7, around the same time as Phil Emanuel’s son ScottBen and Tom who both play in the U16’s now; Ben is a started; Scott is still a current first team player. I becamewinger and Tom plays scrum half. We enjoyed a recent tour involved in coaching and saw the boys through a fewto Barcelona where the team was very impressive, winning seasons. Michael eventually made a decision to go with the26-8 against Castabaney, a very polished and older side other sport he had enjoyed from the age of 5 which wasthan our boys. My wife Maria, who was not into rugby, has Karate. He has developed in the sport to a very high levelnow become involved through the boys playing. This has and competes internationally; winning a silver and bronzealso allowed me greater advantages and it’s nice to have recently at the Australian Open. These were for individualthe whole family involved. My business Kitchen Wizard has fighting and the team event also. The Rugby 1st XV atsponsored the club for 4 seasons now and we help out when Caerphilly have had a great start to their season and theasked. It’s great to see Caerphilly RFC enjoying so much overall structure and management of the club is very good.success just now and I wish everyone associated with the 125 years of rugby is a great achievement and Caerphillyclub all the best in our 125th year!” has produced some notable players over the years. The Rugby Club is getting stronger and growing - best wishes to everyone for the future.”56 | ISSUE 32

WATH UPON DEARNEWATH UPONDEARNEWath Upon Dearne play their homegames on Moor Road in Rotherham,South Yorkshire and they are led byPresident Phil Ardron whilst theircurrent Head Coach is Lee Bird.Under the guidance of second successive promotion these two figures the and the Development XV and club have experienced 3rd XV both being promoteda considerable amount of from their merit leagues.success as Club Captain Mat-thew Burrows told the clubs The 1st XV also made it toofficial matchday programme the final of the RFU Seniorrecently. Vase and playing at Twicken- ham was an amazing experi- “Last season was another ence. Although we were obvi-successful one for the club, ously disappointed to losewith the 1st XV gaining a I’m sure it’s something that www.rugbyclub.biz | 57

WATH UPON DEARNEeveryone who was there will Chairman Steve Corns also mitment from coaches andremember for a long time. spoke in a recent programme, parents. However, I cannot explaining some of the fac- explain the clubs strength I was pleased to be asked to tors behind the clubs success. in depth. We are able to turncontinue as captain for the “The 1st XV success is due to a out four senior teams mostnew season. We have found combination of many factors: weekends when many wellthat there has been a step maturation of junior players, established clubs appearup in standard and there are return of experienced players, to be losing players and areno easy games in Yorkshire sponsorship and a dedicated, struggling to turn out even1 and although we have had highly talented coaching two teams.”a couple of disappointing team to name a few. home defeats we are pleased As touched upon abovewith how things have gone The growing Junior Section the club places a significantoverall so far.” is also the result of com- amount of emphasis upon The club has every reasonto be happy with the way thecampaign has developed asthey have managed to rackup 14 wins out of their first19 matches. This sees the sidecurrently lying in 3rd positionin the table. Having had time now toadapt to their new surround-ings in a higher league WathUpon Dearne should be inwith a great chance of build-ing on their current positionas the season reaches thebusiness end. If they are ableto do this then there shouldnot be any reason why theclub are not celebratinganother successful campaigncome the end of the season.58 | ISSUE 32

WATH UPON DEARNEthe development of youngplayers and this is represent-ed by the number of youthteams that they have in place.Producing quality youngplayers is important for anyclub and should stand WathUpon Dearne in good steadfor many years to come. They certainly come acrossas a side that is on the up andit is difficult to argue withthe evidence of two succes-sive promotions. Everyoneat Rugby Club Magazinecertainly wishes the club thebest of luck for the remainderof the season. Dean, Managing Director of club sponsor BDSS Traffic Safety “Our company started in 2008; we supply labour to traffic management companies all over the UK. This is our 3rd season sponsoring the club and we got involved because we wanted to help a local side. We hope to continue to sponsor the side for as long as possible and it is our wish that Wath Upon Dearne are able to continue to grow as a club.” www.rugbyclub.biz | 59

FURNESSFURNESSFurness RUFC plays their homegames at the StrawberryGrounds in Cumbria and theycurrently compete in CumbriaLeague 1They have had a promis- and could no ing season so far, win- longer com- ning 8 of their first 13 mit the hoursmatches. Rugby Club Maga- required.zine spoke to their ChairmanChris Reid who gave us an With no one will-insight into what the club is ing to step into their shoesall about. we have reluctantly passed many of our junior players to “Youth Rugby has always local rivals Hawcoat Park whobeen a vital part of the Fur- are building their junior sec-ness set up. Until recently tion. We want to keep theseour mini section - Furness youngsters playing rugbyCrusaders - was a strong and union and felt this was thevibrant part of the club with best route to go down.teams from U8s through toU14s. As with many clubs, we On the bright side our pre-struggle to get volunteers sent first XV contains 11 underto help and disastrously this 20’s, all of whom are a prod-September our main two uct of the successful Coltsmanagers both moved jobs squad from two years ago. We have no Colts this season60 | ISSUE 32

FURNESSbut hope to develop our U14 “We are comment that Furness is the the club moving forward.squad. The Furness area is a optimistic only club they go to where The club grounds are calledRugby League stronghold and about the they still get the traditionalit is a challenge recruiting future with orange slice at half time! “The Strawberry Grounds”young Rugby Union players. such a young because that is exactlyAt times the distances we squad and We open 7 nights a week, what they were when theneed to travel for Colts games hope to build which at times is a strain on club moved there in thecan be prohibitive both in on and feed resources, but we decided as early 1900’s. We are basedtime and cost, but this is off their a committee that once you very close to Furness Abbeysomething we are working enthusiasm.” start closing at certain times (founded 1123) and hence theon. you remove club member’s Bishops Mitre as our club We have a Football section options. We are fortunate to emblem. We have adopted a mentor- that play at all age groups have a fantastic Stewardessing system, where older play- (Furness Rovers) and we also who works very hard for the Over the next few years weers take some of the younger accommodate a local mini club and has a multitude have plenty to contend with!lad’s under their wing and Rugby League team (Marsh of skills when it comes to We have a Furness 2020 planguide them through their Hornets) who all make use attracting business and cater- which includes promotion forfirst season in senior rugby, of the facilities. We recently ing for events. our 1st XV out of the Cumbriaboth on and off the pitch! We hosted the first game of the League into Cumbria/Northalso achieved RFU Accredita- newly formed Walney Terri- In the past we have looked Lancashire where we weretion this year. ers American Football team at extensions and even a for the previous two seasons. which was interesting. They complete rebuild and went We also want to redevelop We are optimistic about enjoyed the facilities and the quite a long way down the our junior rugby section andthe future with such a young warm welcome so much they to create a 3rd XV Social sidesquad and hope to build on want to come back! relocation route, but in the to play friendly games andand feed off their enthusi- present climate these are still maintain the interest of ourasm. In 2008 Furness RU were In summer we regularly on hold. Furness RU own their “older” players.” Rugby Clubawarded the national Go Play host parties, fun days and grounds, 3 pitches and train- Magazine certainly wishesRugby Award for which we barbeques for local fun- ing areas, so we owe it to our this very likeable club theare still very proud. The award draising groups. We also forefathers who invested in best of luck in achieving theirwas presented by the then provide one of the best the facilities in the 1920’s to ambitions.RFU President John Owen and local Fireworks Displays on uphold their values and keepit still takes a prominent posi- Bonfire Night! We became thetion behind the bar. adopted home of the crew of the UK’s latest nuclear It reflected on our recruit- submarine, HMS Ambush,ment of senior players and who enjoyed their leave withthe success of our junior and a few social drinks on manygirls section. As often hap- occasions. The club has strongpens, the girls have moved links with the local shipyardon but we enjoy following and many of our players arethe progress of three of directly involved with Subma-them who are playing senior rine Engineering.County rugby for Cumbriaand one who is in the RFUW As with many clubs, weSenior England Development suffer from having an oldsquad. building that needs constant maintenance. Visiting players The 2012-13 season sees our often comment on how itvery own President, David is like “a proper rugby club”Maguire, take the honour of and we try to keep it thatbeing Cumbria RU County way. They enjoy our hospital-President too. He works hard ity and the atmosphere. Wefor the club and is a busy man enjoy our traditions and ourthis year with all the travel- 110 year history. Many playersling his county job involves.On the playing side we havetwo players in the Cumbriasenior squad and four in theU20 Cumbria team. We are constantly looking toimprove our community links. www.rugbyclub.biz | 61

ABERDEENSHIREABERDEENSHIRE Aberdeenshire RFC currently competes in the RBS Caledonia League Division One and the club is enjoying a fantastic season at the top of table. Photo: Vidady - Fotolia.comThe establishment is ranging from ages 7 to 18. and secured a 66 year lease, achieved in its local area. Not arguably the most Something that shouldn’t shared with a football and firsts in terms of achieve- progressive rugby club cricket club. Together the ments or records, but firstsin the North East of Scotland go unmentioned is that clubs built themselves a for parts of the game we takeand it has always been an during the first years of the licensed lounge and changing for granted now, and the clubopen and welcoming set-up. youth setup’s existence, facilities, becoming Woodside was the first in its area to Aberdeenshire would allow Sport Complex. open many of the doors to its In the 1960’s, they estab- boys from state schools aged community that we cannotlished the first youth section between 16-18 to compete Going into the 1990’s, imagine a community clubin the north east of Scotland with public school boys of they still managed to stay not having in place today.‘providing boys responsible the same age. Any attempt ahead of the game. The firstmentorship and a diversion- to break down the class bar- open women’s club formed This term has been aary activity away from anti- rier within a society through in the North East were the splendid one so far withinsocial behaviour’ Positively, sport is something that must Aberdeenshire Quines. They a particularly competitivethe youth setup grew over the be admired, especially in less are not afraid to embrace division and the squad willnext few decades, gaining in- enlightened times. the more modern, audience hope to push on and tightencredible amounts of competi- friendly forms of rugby either, their stranglehold on top spottive success along the way. Nearly 120 years into its such as touch rugby or rugby as the business end of theVarious top prizes in regional existence (the late eight- sevens -Aberdeenshire hosts season approaches. Rugbyand national tournaments ies), Aberdeenshire was still the largest regional tourna- Club Magazine wishes theaccumulated over time. By looking to the future, trying ments in both. progressive and hugely wellthe start of the 1990’s Aber- to seek out ways to expand administered set-up all thedeenshire had youth teams its horizons. The club lead It is interesting to read up best into 2013 and beyond. a sports club partnership on all the firsts the club has62 | ISSUE 32

ABERDEENSHIREwww.rugbyclub.biz | 63

NEW MILTON & DISTRICT Courtesy of Triston Jones PhotographyNEW MILTON& DISTRICTNew Milton & District RFC was YOUTH AND LINKS meet twice a month and wefounded in 1927 and first played “Youth rugby is very impor- have a Bingo session on a Fri-on a local sports field in the tant to us. Mini rugby was day. At the weekends the clubHampshire town. In 1963 the founded in 1977 and we now is available for private partiesclub moved to its present home have over 300 boys registered and we are constantly lookingat Ashley, where it currently has in Mini/junior/Colts sections. for further outside use of our3 senior pitches, together with We’ve good links with all of facility.”layouts for Mini Rugby. the local clubs in the New Forest area.” STRENGTHPositively, in 2001 building, was opened. It’s ad- “We have a very strong Colts the club had a large mired by visitors as one of the COMMUNITY side, many of them are now conservatory added best in the county. Rugby Club AND FACILITY playing in our senior sideson an outside veranda and in Magazine spoke to President “Last year the club was and this year it is the clubs2007 a new clubhouse, which Robin Jackson this month. awarded the coveted RFU Seal aim to gain promotion forwas a modification of the old of Approval. We are consid- our three senior sides and ered one of the most hospi- Colts side.” table clubs in the county and moves are a foot for further TALENT expansion. Positively, our club “The club has produced a is very much on a business number of talented players footing. Our local Lions club throughout the years. Cur-64 | ISSUE 32

NEW MILTON & DISTRICTrently, one of our ex-colts is we stay up and keep theplaying for the Welsh under business elements of the club20 side and 6 of our present thriving.Colt’s played for BrockenhurstCollege who won the Na- Ultimately, we want to pro-tional Cup last season. Added vide an attractive communityto that, several of our players supported rugby club for Newhave had county trials.” Milton and District. We want to support all our membersCHALLENGES in their quest to play andAND THE FUTURE enjoy the best standard of“Ensuring the club continues rugby that they can. It willto support the local commu- mean continuing to providenity will remain a challenge our improved facilities forfor us. We want to make sure the playing, training and the social enjoyment of rugby.” “My connection with the Rugby Club and Two Counties Cleaning Services Limited came in 1984 when the Company was founded by my wife and myself. I have been a member of the club since 1963 and when the Company was formed we were asked if we would advertise in any official publications the Club produced.     The response from these advertisements contributed towards the success of the Company and by the time our son Trevor joined the Company in 2001 we had over 150 employees. In 2003, we became a Limited Company and are now one of the major private contractors in Hampshire & Dorset servicing many private and public premises employing approximately300 staff.” www.rugbyclub.biz | 65

FIRWOOD WATERLOOFIRWOODWATERLOOFirwood Waterloo was first here since they were seven with football.established in 1882 and they and there’s no doubt in my Thirdly, the youth sectionsnow play their home games mind that a strong mini andat the Pavillion on St. Andrews junior section is the single provide a large communityRoad in Merseyside. best strategy to ensure a group in their own right. If pipeline of good quality adult we can get the parents en-Rugby Club Magazine YOUTH players. gaged with the club, there are spoke to the club’s “Youth rugby is of paramount literally hundreds of potential Chairman Dave Ray- importance for three reasons. Secondly, the minis and coaches, managers, volun-wood to find out more about Firstly, this is where the adult juniors are our “tentacles” teers, and people to come tothe way in which the club is players of the future will into the local community. For fundraising events.”run. come from. Around half the most of our history we have current first team have been been regarded as an “elite” COMMUNITY club playing an “elite” sport “We are very much a com- but that has really started munity club, and increasingly to change in recent decades. so. Rugby has changed almost We now see more and more beyond recognition in the last people taking up the game or 30 years and so has our club. spectating at Firwood Water- When professionalism arrived loo, often out of frustration in the mid-90s, Waterloo tried66 | ISSUE 32

FIRWOOD WATERLOOfor a long time to continue sponsor, Firwood, are a local the main bar, which creates a INTEGRATIONcompeting at the highest timber and building supplies unique atmosphere. The club “We’ve done brilliantlypossible level and years of business and our venue-hire house is very traditional and in handling this issue inover-spending meant selling business is thriving with welcoming and we try hard to the past. Our chairman ofoff our back pitch in 2003 to our facilities being used for give all visitors an enjoyable football and M&J chairmanpay mounting debts. weddings, funerals, parties, experience (off the pitch of are currently working on a corporate events, keep-fit course!)” pathway all the way from U15 We now have a much more classes and more. to adult level to smooth thelocally-focussed and ground- COMMERCIAL playing transition at eached attitude and our plan I think this last point is so “I guess the big question on stage. The football commit-for the foreseeable future is crucial. It’s not just about everyone’s lips this season tee covers all sections - men,simply to play rugby at the spectators at matches; it’s has been “Why change the women, boys and girls – andhighest level we can afford. It about every touch-point and club’s name from Waterloo work together to try to makeis so much more important every visitor. We need to be to Firwood Waterloo?” The everyone feel that Firwoodthat we continue to exist, to the first place local people answer is financial prudence Waterloo is their club.”introduce men, women and think of when they want to of course. Looking forward,children to rugby and rugby host a party and we need we believe it is vital in these LADIESvalues, and that we continue local businesses to see value straightened times to secure “Women’s rugby began hereto provide a home for literally in sponsorship and corporate longer term income wherever 25 years ago with the arrivalhundreds of participants to hospitality. All this is just as possible and we are therefore of Gill Burns, soon to becomeenjoy our sport every week- important to our survival as delighted with the 5 year an iconic figure in theend. anything that happens on partnership with Firwood, women’s game, represent- the pitch. the well-known local timber ing England for 14 years and We are lucky to have and builders merchants. eventually presiding over theexcellent relationships with FACILITIES Firwood’s commitment to RFUW.some local schools, particu- “We do get favourable com- Waterloo will help us signifi-larly Merchant Taylors, whose ments yes, particularly about cantly in delivering our key Firwood Waterloo Ladiespitches near the club host our one very special feature of objectives of constitutional are currently unbeaten inmini and junior section every the club. When the players reform and investment in our Championship North andSunday. We are a part of the take to the pitch, they run facilities.” heading for the Premier-community in other ways right through the middle of ship play-offs, which is verytoo. For example, our main www.rugbyclub.biz | 67

FIRWOOD WATERLOOexciting indeed. We have an most clubs do. and support this strategy and means that we have to goexceptionally talented group Our facilities are ageing and it is fair to say that Firwood through a full bar of support-of players – 18 in the Lanca- Waterloo has made great ers drinking and enjoyingshire squad, 9 in the England deteriorating so we will have strides towards becoming themselves which alwaysNorth squad, Welsh inter- some major renovations to a community rugby club of means there’s a good levelnationals Jenny Davies and make over the next decade or which we can be very proud of noise to exit to and theElen Evans, Irish international so, but I think our future is in indeed.” supporters on ‘Boozer’s Bank’Lauren Day and England U20 our own hands and we owe always ensure that thereplayer Ellie Prescot. We are it to the thousands of past Rugby Club Magazine also is a good level of supportworking to a development members of the last 130 years spoke to current first team throughout the match.plan to grow the women’s to secure a stable, secure hooker Alick Croft, 24.section over the next couple future for the club we love.” I hope we can finish the sea-of years, strengthening the “I have been playing rugby son on a high and put a good2nd XV and adding U13 and AMBITIONS for almost 9 years now hav- run of results together. WeU15 sides too.” “Firwood Waterloo has seen ing only really started playing have shown that we can beat something of a financial rugby because my football anyone on our day, whichCHALLENGES turnaround over the last team collapsed. I started seems to be a running theme“Frankly, simple survival is three years - trading at a playing for Waterloo in my in this league, but we need tochallenging in itself. Straight- planned breakeven for the final year of university when become much more consist-ened economic times have hit last few years following many they were in National North ent if we’re going to competesponsorship and corporate years of losses. So, our ambi- 2 because I decided I wanted with the clubs at the top ofhospitality hard so we must tion is simple - we are com- to play club rugby as well as this league as that seems tofind new revenues. We’ve got mitted to playing first team for the university and there be the big difference.” Fir-a little medium term security rugby at the highest level we were a couple of guys from wood Waterloo comes acrossin the shape of the five year can afford, while bringing university training there, and as an innovative and well rundeal with our much appreci- mini, junior, developmental I’ve been here since. I became club and everybody at Rugbyated main sponsor Firwood and social rugby to as many club captain at the end of last Club Magazine wishes thembut otherwise we live from of our local men, women and season. the best of luck for the newhand to mouth as I suspect children as possible. season. The set-up of having the Our members understand ‘Men’s Bar’ between the changing room and the pitch68 | ISSUE 32



SEVENOAKSSEVENOAKSSevenoaks Rugby Club was first season, and three Sevenoaks INTEGRATIONestablished in 1925 and they juniors have gone on to “We set a lot of store by per-play their home games at Knole became full internationals – sonal contacts, so we have setPaddock which is based in Kent. David Flatman, Andy Titterrell up a three man sub-commit- and Tom May. tee to look after this aspect,They are a club that have a large honours board comprising two former places a strong em- in the club room on which We also have several players Academy/Colts managers and phasis upon youth we record all our age-group in the Saracens Academy a current 1st XV player. Ourdevelopment and with this in county champions down right now, and Johnny Short current 1st XV manager is alsomind Rugby Club Magazine the years. Two seasons ago, has been a regular starter a former Academy/Colts man-spoke to Chairman Lee Adam- our U17s won the national for Saracens 1st XV. Tristan ager, so he helps a great dealson who told us about many plate knockout competition, Roberts is the regular starting to maintain the continuity.aspects of Sevenoaks. something of which we are fly-half for Bristol, too, and very proud.” last season our regular 1st XV The big challenge in this de-YOUTH flanker Ian Collins was the partment comes when play-“Youth Rugby is hugely im- PROGRESSION captain of the England Deaf ers go to university, whichportant to us – in many ways “We are also very proud of XV.” most of ours do. We use socialit’s the very lifeblood of the the international players we media to keep them involved,club. We have more than 500 have produced at different “We are also very with facebook pages for indi-boys and girls as junior mem- age groups over the years proud of the vidual age groups and a livelybers, supported by more than and, again, we record them all international twitter feed that is again run60 qualified coaches. We are on a large honours board and players we have by a current 1st XV player.”very competitive throughout proudly display their interna- produced atour county, and beyond, in all tional shirts in the club room. different age Communityage groups and our successes groups over the “We try hard to be a com-at junior level are recognised Matt Blandford became years” munity club. We have a verythroughout the club. the 25th junior international pro-active programme to we’ve produced when he help promote rugby in local To give you an example, we played for England U16s last schools, and it always gives us all a boost when we see local lads doing well, either in our own 1st XV or when they reach higher levels.” FACILITIES “Last season, we completed a £500,000 extension and refurbishment to the club- house, in which we increased the size of all our changing rooms, including visitors’, put in new facilities for match officials and totally revamped the club room, bar and catering side of things. I’m delighted to say, we managed to raise all the money for this without incurring a single penny of debt – it’s all bought and paid for!” CHALLENGES “I think dwindling numbers in senior rugby is a really70 | ISSUE 32

SEVENOAKSbig challenge, not just for HOPES/AMBITIONSus but for most clubs at our “Right now our most impor-level. It doesn’t help when the tant “hope” is that our pitches“semi-pro” outfits are paying dry out and we can get sometalented guys to sit on the decent rugby played on them!bench or run out in their 2nd Beyond that, our U17s areXVs, especially not when it in the county cup final socomes to front row forwards. obviously we’ll be hoping forMaking the most of the World some success there; we’d likeCup in 2015 will be a major to field more senior teams as,challenge too – and, of course, like most clubs these days, wea brilliant opportunity.” are struggling for numbers and a few more wins for the“Right now our 1st XV to ensure level 7 rugbymost important again next season wouldn’t“hope” is that go amiss.our pitches dryout and we can Above all, we would like toget some decent really strengthen the flow ofrugby played on players from our junior sec-them!” tion into our senior section. I think if we do this, we will be fulfilling our role as a positive and active player in the local community and, on the field, we would be pretty confident that the results would pretty much look after themselves.” www.rugbyclub.biz | 71

LIVERPOOLCOLLEGIATELIVERPOOLCOLLEGIATELiverpool Collegiate RUFC is a Liverpool Collegiate is a has put together an impres-club that play Rugby all over team that works hard sive run of form and they cur-the North-West region of the to provide a high qual- rently sit in a strong leaguecountry. They encourage anybody ity of coaching and believe position. Of the 19 games thatto come along and join the club that they are an ideal starting the team has played theyregardless of their age or ability. point for anybody who is have won 12, drew 1 and lost looking to begin their rugby 6 and this leaves them in 4th72 | ISSUE 32 career. place in the table. The team is currently run- The side has developed a ning four senior sides and reputation of playing some their first XV competes in the high quality rugby during the South Lancs/Cheshire Divi- season and have raised some sion 2. The 2nd XV compete eyebrows with some of the in the University of Salford good results that they have League 2 South and the 3rd achieved. The club should be team play in the University of able to benefit from the expe- Salford League 5 West whilst rience that they have gained the 4th’s play in the Mersey- up to now and so they should side and Wirral Merit Table. get stronger as the season draws to a close. So far this season the 1st XV

“Liverpool If they are able to maintain LIVERPOOLCollegiate their composure and con- COLLEGIATEalso has a tinue to play the attacking www.rugbyclub.biz | 73successful brand of rugby that they haveladies section produced so far this seasonin place and then they should be in withthey are a good chance of challeng-ambitious in ing for honours in the finaltheir plans to months of the season.improve thissection of the Liverpool Collegiate also hasclub. The team a successful ladies section incurrently plays place and they are ambitiousin the RFUW in their plans to improve thisNC North section of the club. The teamDivision 1 and currently plays in the RFUWthey are keen NC North Division 1 and theyto attract are keen to attract moremore players players to the game. Women’sto the game. ” rugby is a sport that is grow- ing significantly and Liverpool Collegiate certainly appear to be a club that is keen to help this section of the game grow further. One very impressive thing about Liverpool Collegiate is the size of the youth sec- tion that they have at the club. They possess one of the biggest and most successful junior sections in the North West. This season they have consistently been able to field teams from Under 7’s right through to U19’s. Having a strong youth sec- tion is important for any club as it can provide the senior sides with a valuable source of players. With the work that Liverpool Collegiate put into developing young players they should be able to rely upon having a steady stream of talent available to reinforce the senior ranks. The other benefit of having a strong youth section is that it can go a long way to ensuring that the club plays an important part in the local community. This should therefore ensure that Liver- pool Collegiate is a rugby club which is well-valued in the local area and can continue to go from strength to strength in the future.

RYLANDS SHARKSRYLANDS SHARKSRylands Sharks are based in Warrington and facilities up to standard and have also been given credit by we are very pleased with the campaigns such as ‘Our Spacecurrently plays in the North West section of results.” Your Place’ set up by the Da- vid Wilson Homes company,the British Amateur Rugby League. It is not hard to see why who awarded the Sharks the Sharks are so highly £1000 to kit out the under 7’sThey run teams for all gether and ‘scrape, sand, tile, thought of in their local team as a repayment for their age categories and grate and paint’ to transform community. While clubs all service to the community. even manage to main- their showering facilities and over the country struggletain a female team. The vast changing rooms. to get the adequate funds Success and developmentrange of ages their teams together, let alone find the is creeping in to every cornercover show Ryland Sharks are The event was a huge suc- time that is needed to run of Ryland Sharks set up, witha club who know their place cess. Speaking at the time, their youth teams properly; youth player Harvey Livett be-in and their importance to Club secretary, Lindsay Bissett Rylands Sharks run two ‘open ing selected for the Englandtheir local community. enthused, “Today’s event has age’ senior teams, have youth under 16’s squad - a fantastic certainly encouraged us to teams ranging from under achievement. Rylands Sharks They recently took part in hold similar activities in the 18’s to under 13’s, junior teams are a true community cluban ‘Engage with Your Club’ future. Our intention was to ranging from under 12’s to and continue to do someprogram when their facilities upgrade the changing rooms under 7’s and an under 5’s fantastic work within theirat Gorsley Lane home desper- and showers, which, while cubs team. local community. Rugby Clubately needed improving. This they are basically sound, have Magazine wishes the wellinvolved getting volunteers become a little tired over Such dedication and love administered club all the bestfrom the community, Sharks time. The “engage with your for the game can’t help but for the season and beyond.players, parents of players club programme” has given bring out the best in all as-and club staff to all work to- us the incentive to get the sociated with the club. They74 | ISSUE 32



BRADFORD & BINGLEYBRADFORD& BINGLEYIf you’re looking for a grass roots cally and from within, and at top two teams, a fair num-rugby club with a passion for Bradford & Bingley RFC youth ber have come from Bingleytheir community and youth de- rugby plays a major role. Grammar school who hardlyvelopment, then look no further Rugby Club Magazine caught play rugby anymore.than Bradford & Bingley RFC. up with Chairman Peter Rae recently. He started,“We’ve All clubs have the sameLocated in the scenic at Twickenham after their placed a large emphasis on problems, in my opinion if Aire Valley, the club groundbreaking formation our growing junior section certain clubs don’t look into came into existence of the country’s first mixed because it’s where we see the amalgamation or involvingafter the amalgamation of ability rugby team. They have future.” other sports then they won’tthe Bradford RFC and Bingley also hosted Rugby Rocks York- be here in a few years. WeRUFC clubs back in 1982. shire, an event that combines Peter also believes the are a multi-sports club and rugby, music and fun for the authorities have some is- are looking at other income The club has experienced whole community. sues to sort out. He said,“I streams and making themany high points in its recent think there’s a lack of players most of the facility. To run ourhistory including winning Like most amateur clubs, around and it’s becoming ground costs lots of money.a social inclusion award players are sourced lo- more of a spectator sport. I think there needs to be more I think some of the money investment in grass roots from the RFU should be fil- rugby because the number tered into the lower divisions of Schools that are now not and that we need a substi- playing rugby now is quite tute for many schools not alarming. If you look at our playing the game anymore. We’ve a first class pitch, but76 | ISSUE 32

BRADFORD & BINGLEYtired looking changing roomsand are keen to improvethem. However, to carry outsuch work you need moneyand I think the RFU shouldlook into how they can helpout smaller clubs.” More positively, Peter be-lieves the 1st team is enjoyinga decent season and believesthe recent arrival of HenryPaul is helping. He enthused,“We’ve put a couple of solidwins together and think wecan now finish mid-table.Henry Paul has recentlyjoined the ranks, he’s takinga more active role in coach-ing and he’s actually played afew games. He’s an excellentinfluence to have around theclub is a very good coach. Weare pushing more and moreto become a communityclub and become the kind ofset-up where players becomemates and so don’t want togo anywhere else.” www.rugbyclub.biz | 77

BRADFORD & BINGLEY Nuffield Health has been established for over fifty years and is the market leading provider of healthcare services in a rapidly transforming market. They have an impressive portfolio of over 200 delivery locations including 32 private hospitals and 65 health clubs. General Manager Helen Walker took the time to tell us more about the company saying, “Nuffield is a Not - for - Profit Organisation and invest our entire surplus back into improving our growing services. All of our Wellbeing advisors are clinically trained and we provide a seamless link between clinical, rehabilitation and preventative health care. We are proud to provide the opportunity for our members to meet leaders in the medical field through free “meet our experts” seminars. The seminars are tailored to provide useful information and guidance on a variety of topical health and fitness related issues. Nuffield provide a unique health management system which is split into three main stages: Stage One: Members enjoy an initial one hour, comprehensive ‘Health MOT’ with one of our fully qualified, clinically trained well-being advisors. The 12 point Health MOT includes blood glucose and cholesterol testing as well an estimated heart and lung efficiency test. We provide a full report and health score out of 100. Stage Two: Each member will have the opportunity to participate in a 1-2-1 consultation with an advisor to ascertain clear health and lifestyle goals. A personalised programme is then provided and members then enjoy a 1-2-1 practical session going through the routine. Stage Three: Each member will enjoy their second Health MOT after 12 weeks. We compare scores and amend the programme. We also reward those who have improved or maintained their health score by offering a complimentary month’s membership!! Over 7 out of every ten members achieved this last year. To come and visit us simply contact either the centre on 01274 565741 or [email protected] if you or your employees would like to come and look around the centre.78 | ISSUE 32

VALE OF LUNEVALE OF LUNEVale of Lune Rugby Club play their continue to perform at the a number of senior teams is level that they have so far that it helps to smooth thehome games on Powderhouse Lane in this season then they should transition for young players be in with every chance of who are making the step upLancaster and they are led by President going on to have a success- to senior level. They are able ful campaign. They will be to gain experience playingNigel Armstrong and Chairman Geoff looking to climb a couple of the game even if they are not places in the league table and yet considered to be readyMarsden. ing some brilliant attacking there does not appear to be for the first team. This should rugby this season and this any reason why they will not help Vale of Lune to developThe team currently com- has been reflected by the be able to do that. their younger players. petes in the Northern fact that they are currently Division North 1 West. the top scorers in the league. The club is fortunate in The club puts a lot of effort This season the club has Playing such a progressive that they have a number of into having a good youthbeen in good form and have style of rugby has certainly senior squads which enables system and this is evident inmanaged to put together meant that any supporters their first XV to have superb the large number of youth11 wins out of their first 17 attending their matches depth. By having so many teams that they have in place.matches. This has left them in have been treated to some senior teams in place Vale of For any club that wants tofourth place in the table and entertaining games and they Lune are able to offer a large play an important role inthey are well positioned after will be hoping that this can number of players in the local the local community it iscoming through some of the continue to be the case. community the opportunity vital that they give youngtough winter months into the to play the game which can players a chance to play thebusiness end of the season. If Vale of Lune is able to only be a positive thing. game and this may lead to an added bonus of encouraging The club has been play- The other benefit of having www.rugbyclub.biz | 79

VALE OF LUNE80 | ISSUE 32

MEDWAY DRAGONSMEDWAYDRAGONSMedway Dragons are a relatively newly established club who wereformed in 2007. They play their home games at the Garrison Stadiumin Gillingham and currently compete in the First Grade South-East Re-gional Division.The team put together Rugby Club Magazine were No one had achieved this age groups and John gave a solid season in 2012, keen to find out more about before in the history of the us an insight into the clubs winning just shy of their set-up and their Chair- awards.” commitment to this set-up.half of their league matches man John Stanforth took the “We started out as a Juniorswhich saw them make the time to tell us about the side. YOUTH Club and the youngsters areplay-offs come the end of the He started by telling us how Medway currently run vital to the future of Medwaycampaign. They were ousted the club were formed. teams across nine youth Dragons. One of our foundingin the knock out phase bya strong Southampton HISTORY www.rugbyclub.biz | 81Spitfires side but will be keen “Basically, twelve people gotto bounce back next time together in a Gillinghamaround. pub on the 30th November 2007 to form the Club - only If they can improve their tea and coffee was drunk!league form then they should We launched the followingbe in with every chance of season.” The club made quickclaiming home advantage progress and as John says,for the knock out stage of the “On the 7th December 2012 atseason. This would signifi- the Medway Council sportscantly improve the likelihood awards the Dragons wonof Medway claiming the title. both Junior Club of the year and Sports Club of the year. With Medway Dragonsbeing a relatively new side

MEDWAY DRAGONSprinciples that still holds d’etre. We are working very League and ultimately we that Medway have madetrue is that the youngest hard to have viable ladies and want the Club to be able to in recent years then theyage group have priority on girls sections at the Club and sustain a Senior Team play- should certainly be in withthe main pitch training have introduced touch rugby ing at either Conference or every chance of achievingnights. We teach a Dragons this year to help get them Championship level with a their ambitions and Rugbyculture from the youngest involved. side that is made up of play- Club Magazine wishes themage groups up. As the players ers who have come through the best of luck for the 2013grow older and progress the As we speak we have been our ranks.” Given the progress season.culture doesn’t change here.” contacted by a local semi- professional football side toPROGRESS see if there are any areas of“We have had almost a dozen cooperation to be explored.players sign pro forms with We are also always lookingLondon Broncos in various to improve the facilities weage groups since we started offer and this can only be aout. We have also had Inter- benefit to the community asnational recognition for two a whole.”of our wheelchair players andthree of our master’s play- CHALLENGES/AMBITIONSers. In addition, one of our “Medway is always looking toyoungsters has recently been keep improving both off andinvited to an England train- on the field. Financial stabilitying camp at his age group, so in the prevailing climate iswe are very excited for him.” always a challenge but we are determined to be financiallyCOMMUNITY self-sufficient. We aim to“We are definitely a Com- continue to work within themunity Club, it is our raison community, offering oppor- tunities for all to play Rugby Young Esher RFC prospect Alex Davolls works for Regal Car Hire. He spoke to Rugby Club Magazine recently about his career so far and choosing Rugby Union over Rugby League. “I went through the Esher junior sides and when I got to U17 level I was invited to train with the development team and the first team. I’ve played both League and Union and it got to the point where I had to make a choice. I decided that union suited me better and I was given the best offer to pursue a career within the game. I’m now keen to progress to the first team and keep training and playing as hard as I can. I do all my gym work with the first team with an aim to progress. I’ve worked for Regal Car Hire for about two years and dividing my time up between the company and rugby is getting easier. I want to play at as high a level as I possibly can and thankfully I’ve had lots of people help me along the way. Esher RFC has a great reputation, it’s a local establishment and there is always a great atmosphere around the club.”82 | ISSUE 32

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE DUBLINUNIVERSITYCOLLEGE DUBLINFounded in 1910, University will have plied their trade at rugby. It allows a player toCollege Dublin RFC has been underage level before break- develop his rugby skills whilehome to several hugely talented ing into the first XV, including at the same time furtheringplayers who have gone on to play all of the internationals that his education in an environ-at the highest level. have graced the bowl recently ment that is supportive to Kearney, O’Driscoll, McFadden, both. This is borne out by theRugby Club Maga- AN IMPRESSIVE SET-UP McLaughlin, Keatley, Ruddock many rugby graduates of the zine spoke to Joseph “As a College-based club, etc. UCD Scholarship programme McGinley at the club underage rugby, in terms of who having completed theirrecently to find out more an u-20, makes up about 1/3rd We are very passionate studies in UCD and have beenestablishment which has a of our players for a season. about developing players awarded professional con-rich history, welcomes new However each of the players first and foremost and it tracts with the provinces.members from home and playing for the first team, was this direction which ledabroad, and has a hugely suc- with only a handful of excep- us to forming Ireland’s first Players only tend to stay forcessful academy. tions over the last ten years Rugby academy in 1997. The as long as they are in college UCD Rugby Academy was the we provide a rich breeding first of its kind in Ireland and ground for other clubs who provides an ideal environ- our graduates move on to. We ment for a player looking to are very proud of the tradi- explore a future career in tion of development in our www.rugbyclub.biz | 83

UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE DUBLINclub,“Ad Astra” the motto pus for various sports teams, TALENT tionals, including 6 of thewhich translates to shoot for a new state of the art swim- “We have a plethora of play- most recent Grand Slamthe stars, encapsulated this ming pool and leisure centre.” ers who have come through winning squad, Paddy Wal-best.” our ranks over the last 100 lace, Kevin McLaughlin, Sean FOCUS years, who have gone on to O’Brien, Fergus McFaddenTOGETHERNESS “As we only have an under achieve high honours in the along with the two previ-“Within the College campus 20’s side A’s & B’s our focus is game. Well known recent ously mentioned.  Given ourwe would consider ourselves on integration between the examples include the British international pedigree fora community club. The people teams with mixed training & Irish Lions Brian O’Driscoll education we have also hadthat we represent may not sessions, transient move- and Rob Kearney who join 5 other senior internationalslive in the locality but are very ment between teams coupled the 8 Lions before them. We come through our ranks inevident in the list of names with annual awards nights, have over 70 Irish Interna- David Hewett (New Zealand),which have represented the whole-club 7’s tournamentsSt. Patricks Blue over the last and social nights where the102 seasons.” players of all abilities mix and get to know one another.TOP FACILITIES“UCD arguably have the best We have an active Women’sfacilities in the country for XV who play in the Leinsterplaying rugby, for both those League, and welcome newon Scholarship at the elite members. At UCD we set outlevel down to our social rugby to give all our players a basicteams. We have an all-weath- knowledge of the game be-er full use rugby pitch, along- fore advancing onto the finerside the main Belfield Bowl points, with player safety anand several others alongside upmost priority, as so manyour world class strength and of our players only take upperformance centres which rugby when they come tohave developed with the help UCD. Our team wants to win,of the University, and more but we also want to ensurerecently Leinster’s move to that everybody has the craicour campus. We have several and enjoys every minute ofgyms spread across the cam- their time with the team.”84 | ISSUE 32

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE DUBLINVasily Artemiev (Russia, cur- The expansive and excitingrently Northamption), Stefan rugby that UCD play canObradovic (Sweden) Ben Bar- often go unheralded as fansclay (USA) and Sean O’Neill are more enfranchised with(Turks & Caicos Islands), of the local professional side, wewhich we are also very proud. would like to see that theyWe regularly provide strong would complement rathernumbers to the Leinster & Ire- than substitute each other asland U18/19/20, A and Senior the game evolves.XV’s which provides excellentrecognition for the talent on The club would like to con-disposal.” tinue its tradition of mixing elite rugby at First XV andCHALLENGES U20A level with an enthusias-AND AMBITIONS tic and enjoyable social rugby“This biggest challenge all environment to continue theamateur clubs in Ireland face supportive and successfulare bringing back the sup- history of the club well intoporters to the ground, keep- the future. Of course, to beating amateur rugby relevant Trinity is always enjoyablein the midst of professional too!”rugby, and to continue toprovide top class facilities and For more information and towelfare for those who chooseto play the game at all levels. keep up to date with news and events keep an eye on www.ucdrugby.com www.rugbyclub.biz | 85

STOW ON THE WOLDSTOW ON THEWOLD & DISTRICTStow on the Wold & District RFC wasfounded in 1879 and the club is afounding member of the Gloucester-shire Rugby Football Union which isstill going strong today.Rugby Club Magazine Green, a local brewer, collect- that had a convenient public since 1879 would suggest spoke to their Presi- ed the team from the square house. Nothing changes!” that this is exactly what is dent, Robert Finch last and transported them to the happening at the Gloucester-month to try and learn more station on a horse drawn Maybe it’s best to use this shire.about how the club is run brewer’s dray. The team tale as a metaphor for thetoday and why it has lasted would then convey them- work involved with keeping Commenting about theso long. selves to their away fixture on a rugby club going today. clubs role within its local hand propelled platelayer’s Everyone must pull together community, Robert enthused, Robert started, “Legend has wagons. After the game the for the cause if the club is to “We send coaches into sev-it that the club was formed team would then ‘push and succeed and the fact Stow On eral local schools and haveby railway engineers extend- pull’ themselves home, stop- The Wold have been going organised for the last 13 yearsing the line to Stow. One tale ping to refuel at every villagehas it that in those days, Mr86 | ISSUE 32

STOW ON THE WOLDan under 16’s floodlit com- development in our manage- so. play football but whilst serv-petition for around 25 local ment and facilities. The minis Stow on the Wold’s Coach ing a ban for being sent offschools. (Now officially called and juniors have been suc- some of my friends encour-the Three Counties Floodlit cessful in County cup com- Andrew Cartridge also took aged me to take up rugbycup, and to Robert’s knowl- petitions in recent years so it the time to talk with us. He instead. I gave it a try andedge it is the only one of its would be great if they could said,“I’ve been playing rugby have never played footballsort in the country) add some more trophies to since I was about 19 and even- again since. the cabinet, especially as we tually had to stop playing We are a fully RFU Ac- are hosting the finals this when age caught up with me. I started coaching last sea-credited club. We host an year. We need to expand our I played at full-back for many son and we lost the first fiveannual Tag Rugby competi- changing facilities to cope years and my highlight would games which meant theretion for local primary schools with our M& J section. We have to have been captain- was a lot of pressure but iforganised through the local have recently put in solar ing the side for the last two you fast forward to this yeareducation authority and we panels and are planning extra years of my playing career. We we have 11 wins from 11 andhost a local soccer club, who changing facilities.” played in the SW2 Division it’s extremely rewarding. A lotconduct their training under which was quite an achieve- of the players have been withour lights.” Robert spoke of “quite radi- ment for a club of that size. the club for a long time and cal and original “plans for the it is very tight knit group we Robert then went on to ex- future when talking about I’ve now been at Stow for have here.plain a little more about the how the club is financed and just over 20 years. I used toclub’s history and some of his believes the set up they havehopes for the future. He said, in place is “the envy of every“In 1969 we purchased 12.5 club in our league and theacres just off the Oddington league above us”road and in 1995 additionalland was bought. We then Stow on the Wold & Districtembarked on an extensive RFC has been moving withlevelling and drainage project the times since 1879, and weextending the clubhouse and have no doubt that underputting up floodlights. such a sensible administra- tion the progressive estab- We are looking for Promo- lishment will continue to dotion for our 1st XV and a bigMichael Gun of club sponsor Stow Pharmacy Nick Allport of club sponsor Dyno Rod told Rugby Club Magazine of his positive“I moved to Stow on the Wold 24 years ago from Australia via association with the clubCheltenham. Having no previous links to the area, the RugbyClub allowed me to meet a lot of people in the area, play at a “I first got involved when I became friends with John McGee anddecent level of Rugby and generally lay roots in the area. he persuaded me to start playing. I get to watch as many games as I can and hope that the team can continue to do well. I’ve I bought the pharmacy (Stow Pharmacy) 20 years ago which been involved for 18 years now and first started sponsoring themhad been established for over 100 years. The pharmacy has been when I still played. All 6 of my sons play rugby and I hope to beassociated with the club all the time that I’ve owned it and even able to carry on supporting the club for as long as possible.”though I’m now retired I’ve maintained links with the mini andjunior section via my children’s involvement, as well as beingable to help out with training when needed. So even though Ican’t attend a lot of senior’s games my interest in the club’swelfare and progress is very strong.” www.rugbyclub.biz | 87

STOW ON THE WOLDRugby Club Magazine spoke to Richard Davies Ben Harrison of club sponsor Mypowerof club sponsor Kendall & Davies Solicitorswho took the time to tell us a little bit about “I was born and brought up in the Cotswolds, studied rural landhimself, his company and their involvement management at Cirencester Agricultural College and subsequentlywith the club. worked as a land agent and surveyor in the rural sector. I now promote, advise, consult and am involved in the supply and installation of“I am a solicitor, born and brought up in the Cotswolds and am renewable energy projects, mostly focussing on solar PV installations.married with 3 children. I have 3 boys 6, 11 & 12 all of whom play rugby at Stow and are the 4th generation of Harrisons to do so. My father started the family Solicitors Practise in the 1950’s(when he played for Stow, and in fact one year was Club Captain). Mypower renewables is a natural next step to complement its sisterI played rugby between the ages of 11 and 36 inclusive, for Company Mil-Tek, who leases waste compaction balers to reduceschool, university, the Honourable Artillery Company in London, waste, increase recycling and improve business profits. Mypowerand Stow on the Wold RFC. My two sons now play in the minis started 3 years ago and the focus has been to provide a professionaland juniors at Stow. approach to the solar PV industry offering consultancy and advice as well as supply and installation services. As a firm we have provided pro bono advice to the Clubthroughout our existence, as well as help with litigation, We pride ourselves on our reputation and with our in-house staffconveyancing, Trusts and company law. We’ve been involved take complete control of the project for customers from the beginningsince the 1950’s and it was our love of rugby that brought this to end, including the Feed in Tariff applications and power purchaseabout. agreements where applicable. Stow on the Wold is very much a community club and by We can significantly reduce running costs both in respect of electricbeing involved with them we are able to keep in touch with both and heating costs as well as provide a robust return on investment.businesses and individuals in the area. I get along to games Stow RFC is a fantastic case study with its Solar PV installation and awhenever I can and have been to all of the boy’s matches. I wish likely forthcoming heat providing project will further reduce costs andStow on the Wold a successful future and hope that they are able provide an increased income stream. In addition, we provide donationsto continue to thrive in all areas.” to the club for any work referred to us by members.88 | ISSUE 32 I’ve been a sponsor at Stow on the Wold for 12 months and got involved because of my personal connections and the clubs forward thinking and versatile approach. We would very much like to continue to support the club both in assistance with renewable energy projects and donations. A big advantage of the link is that they provide a great chairman’s lunch! In the future it would be great to see the club continuing its fantastic achievements in the senior, junior and mini sections, on a very firm financial footing thanks to some forward thinking and hard work from members.”

HINDLEYHINDLEYHindley ARLFC was first young players and this is number of young people theestablished in 1991 and they not surprising given the vast opportunity to get into theplay their home games at the St number of teams that they game, they are also bringingPeters Pavillion which is on Hurst have in place. Having a pro- parents into the set up asStreet in Greater Manchester. duction line of good players well. coming through from a youthThe team has sides Having an additional system can be a significant The club also works hard playing from U7’s right senior side is also important lift for a club’s senior ranks. to make sure that it has a through to senior because it provides young vibrant social side and theylevel. In its history the club players with an opportunity Having players in the host a number of eventshas developed a reputation of playing senior level rugby senior ranks who have come throughout the season. Thefor producing high quality even if they are not yet con- through the youth system most notable of these in theplayers. sidered ready for first team is also important because it near future is a cabaret night rugby. This can provide these ensures that the clubs values which should be enjoyed by The club is currently led players with some valuable will be remembered as those everybody who attends it.by Chair Maureen Fairhurst experience and will there- players can help to transferand they will be hoping to fore significantly boost their them across to other players. Hindley is clearly a clubmake a big impact in the 2013 development. that has the potential to putseason, playing in the RFL The other big advantage together a really good seasonNational Conference League. As touched upon earlier, of having a successful youth in 2013 both on and off theThe team will be itching to Hindley is a club that has a set up is that it helps the pitch. Everyone at Rugby Clubget the league season started reputation for developing club to be a vital part of the Magazine wishes them andas they stand on the cusp of local community. Not only their fans the very best ofthe campaign after making a “As well as are Hindley providing a large luck.conscious effort to strength- having aen the side in the off-season. first team in place the The early signs have cer- club also hastainly been positive for the an additionalclub as they won their first senior side andcup match of the season this providesrecently. Any side will always the club withfeel better after getting their greater depth.”first competitive victory onthe board and Hindley will behoping to use this result as aplatform upon which to buildin the coming weeks. As well as having a firstteam in place the club alsohas an additional seniorside and this provides theclub with greater depth. Thisshould mean that the firstteam can call upon additionalplayers if they are ever shortwhich is obviously a massivebonus. www.rugbyclub.biz | 89

BARGOED Courtesy of Phil Simmons Community FilmsBARGOEDMid Glamorgan set-up Bargoed RFC years into the finest seen at the development of youngwas formed in 1882 and it was home the club and expectations are players through a vibrant andto arguably the most significant understandably high. Hope- progressive policy. Indeed,figure in Welsh rugby for many of the fully with a lot of sweat and 75% of the current seniorpost war years in the form of former no little luck, we can achieve squad are products of theChairman, Glyn Morgan who in time our primary aim of winning youth team and with the 1stbecame WRU President and Chairman the championship this year and 2nd XV’s both in the topof the ‘Big Five’ selectors. which would mean that re- three of their league competi- markably we would have won tionsThe club has long stand- Brett Wakefield this month every division from division 6 ing links with fellow to find out the latest from to the championship within The club is very proud of its Welsh side Aberaeron, Gilfach Street. the past decade. Now it’s just home grown talent and overScotland’s Hawick Harlequins, the premiership to go!” the last thirty years the clubSouth Jersey (USA) and TrIe IMPRESSIVE has had a succession of tal-sur Baise (France). Rugby Club “The current squad has YOUTH ented youth teams. In recentMagazine spoke to Manager matured over the past few “The Youth team is a vital years this has produced hon- part of the club and Bargoed ours for the club on a number RFC have a long history of of fronts with the Youth developing players through team winning the Dragons A age grade rugby. The club is League and local district cup very proactive in managing competitions as well as pro- ducing a number of good cup90 | ISSUE 32

BARGOEDruns in the National Youth GOOD RELATIONS progressed from Bargoed to WELL ESTABLISHEDCup competition. “The club assists by providing the premiership in the past “The Club is the longest players to junior sides that few seasons such as Darren established sporting body There have also been a num- may be struggling to field Humphries, Lee Williams within the town and beyond.ber of individual successes a team. This gives valuable (Neath) and Anthony Lott Strong links exist betweenwith six players representing game time to squad players (Cross Keys). More generally the club and the local soccerthe Wales age grade teams, or those recovering from inju- the club is proud of its asso- team (ground sharing) as welland three players Ieuan Jones, ry. The club has a strong affili- ciation with the Mid District as there being a significantSteffan Jones and Jonathon ation with some premiership clubs and has provided the partnership agreement withEvans are now full time clubs such as Cross Keys, Bed- chairman of the Mid District the local council.professionals with the Gwent was and Cardiff and this has on more than one occasionDragons. The club knows led to joint training sessions, in the past ten years as well In recent history the clubthat the future is bright with pre-season friendlies as well as annually taking part in the has become more profession-some excellent prospects who as giving promising players a cup competition, winning it al as the first team has movedwill undoubtedly be part of taste of the more professional on a number of occasions.” towards the elite level ofthe next generation of senior environment. A number of rugby in Wales. However, theplayers.” players have subsequently club has very strong commu- nity links and has a vibrant www.rugbyclub.biz | 91

BARGOEDjunior section with more that décor is regularly updated. course meal. The night was an to coaches. Plan-Do-Review150 youngsters participating Every Saturday a life member excellent success with many is something encouraged atevery Sunday morning. Teams presents a ‘man of the match’ bouts involving athletes from the club.exist at every age group from award to an opposition local boxing clubs, some asunder 8s to under 16s with all player which creates lots of young as twelve. In the sum- The relationship is recipro-coaches volunteering their banter between players. Food mer all teams from under cal with junior coaches invit-time to ensure they get the is provided for supporters, 8s up get their own awards ed to attend senior sessionsbest possible experience. free of charge, in the club as evenings with guest speakers to pick up ideas and enhanceMany of the junior teams well as an extensive range of and prizes all round for play- CPD. When players at youthare coached by current or meals for players and officials ers, coaches and volunteers. level reach a certain age theyex-Bargoed players which by two experienced chefs. It is great to see some of our become eligible to play in ouris a testament to the club’s Visiting players and officials ex-players, who are now play- ‘development squad’ fixtures.”retention policy for long term regularly comment on the ing premiership or regionaldevelopment. All coaches are quality of the cuisine at the rugby attend these evenings CHALLENGESqualified to at least Level 1 club. Each home game is to present awards and sign AND THE FUTUREand the club also provides sponsored by a local company autographs.” “The long term aim of thetwo experienced coach or organisation and this helps club is to consistently beeducators for the Dragon with the funding of such TOGETHERNESS the best community club inregion’s Coach Development initiatives. “Our rugby club handbook Wales and this means win-programme.” has a transparent coaching ning the Championship on a The club has two bar areas and playing philosophy which regular basis. On the field weFACILITY as well as a large reception is consistently applied by all play an attractive brand of“Visiting players, officials and hall. Throughout the year it coaches at all levels through- rugby based on a strong setsupporters always comment hosts various events and re- out the club. Senior coaches piece and a ‘high risk, highon the warm welcome they cently the club hosted a char- regularly attend other club reward’ attacking philoso-receive at our clubhouse. Our ity boxing evening, with a full training sessions to run activ- phy. This needs to bolsteredfacilities are modern and the size ring erected in the hall, ities or give advice/feedback with an improvement in the black tie dress code and three ‘gamesense’ of our players:92 | ISSUE 32

BARGOEDfocusing on ‘what, when As mentioned earlier, theand where’ strategies are squad this year is at the peakemployed is something we of its powers and a majorneed to work on, in order to challenge will be sustainingmake us more difficult to this standard over the fore-play against. More leaders seeable seasons. Our transi-are needed on the field. We tion policy and handling ofrely heavily on our primary younger players is thereforedecision makers and when paramount as we inevitablythey are not in the team we lose players to higher divi-struggle. These tactical and sions. Their replacementsmental skills are the ones we must ‘hit the ground run-will be looking to improve ning’ and be given as muchin our players through our game experience as earlycoaching delivery. as possible. The old adage ‘If you’re good enough then Off the field, this season you’re old enough’ is one thatis the first that we have I certainly subscribe to. And,used focused video analysis finally, we need to continueto inform game plans and to retain and attract as manyimprove practice and this is good people as we can toan area that needs to be fully our club in order to maintaindeveloped over the next few our community position.years, and not only at senior Coaches, players, supporters,level. The education of all our administrators, parents, wivescoaches at all age groups is and girlfriends, sons andsomething we take very seri- daughters and volunteers allously and we will continue to contribute to our continuingattend courses and CPD eve- success but there is alwaysnings as much as possible in more that can be done.”order to give our participantsthe best experience possible.Brian Weyman is a club sponsor with his Bob Jeffries has been associated with Bargoedbusiness Glaze Rite and he recently told Rugby Club through following his son-in-Rugby Club Magazine about his link with the law playing and with his business Havenclub Engineering services. “It was really through my son Lewis that I became a supporter He recently told Rugby Club Magazine, “Lee was up at Neath forand then sponsor of Bargoed. Lewis started playing ten years a while but is returning to Bargoed now. The team are havingago at around the age of 15 and is the current first team a great season of it and could have been even further ahead ifnumber 8. The team are having a fantastic season this year and they had picked up the bonus points they were capable of againstif they can keep working hard for each other there is no reason some of the weaker opposition. The next big game will be thewhy they can’t be champions.” Ebbw Vale match later in the season and if the boys can continue playing for each other then the season end can be a successful one for them.” www.rugbyclub.biz | 93

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BARGOEDHamid Nawaz-Khan ofclub sponsor Alltrustrecently spoke to RugbyClub Magazine“Alltrust became a sponsornot only through our employeeAndrew McLaughlin being a firstteam player but because of thegreat community ethics the clubdisplays. On both occasions Ihave ventured to the club towatch a match the games havebeen called off, third time luckyperhaps. I would urge the clubto continue with their excellentyouth development policies andto keep investing in their youngplayers; it is obviously workingfor them and providing a greatcommunity service.” www.rugbyclub.biz | 95

BARGOEDGary Williams has been the club president at Bargoed RFCfor over five years now and he recently spoke to Rugby ClubMagazine about his association with the club“I first played for Bargoed in 1967 as of March hopefully those injured playersa fresh youngster in the position of will have recovered. The club are a greatprop and played my last game in 1981. testament to youth development and theAfter my playing days I joined the club fabulous coaching staff we have at allcommittee and became Chairman and levels. Many years ago the club madenow President. It is absolutely amazing some courageous decisions and stuckthe success the club are enjoying this by them and this has resulted in over ayear with some excellent performances decade of progress and success. Best.The only down side is perhaps the wishes to everyone at Bargoed Rugbyinjuries we have incurred, however with a Club for the remainder of the season.”vital game against Ebbw Vale at the end96 | ISSUE 32

BARGOEDJames Mudge of club sponsor Taylor Francis Insurance Brokersrecently spoke to rugby club magazine about their involvementwith Bargoed Rugby Club“I have known Neil Carter for many years and what Bargoed have achieved andare achieving is fantastic, heading towards six championships in ten years isoutstanding.As a company we are also insurance brokers for the club and have looked aftermany of Neil’s business interests over the years and in a similar fashion, wheneverwe have attended corporate and hospitality days at the club they have always takenvery good care of us. Myself and Taylor Francis would like to wish everyone atBargoed Rugby Club continued success well into the future.” www.rugbyclub.biz | 97

BEACONSFIELDBEACONSFIELDBuckinghamshire’s Beaconsfield RFC was founded in 1952 by JackHickman, a rugby enthusiast and a leading figure at Ealing RFC. Heformed the club in light of how far he had to travel to follow Ealing andsince its early days, the club has developed nicely into an impressiveset-up.Rugby Club Magazine taking ownership for their “Beaconsfield and Harlequins Rugby League spoke to David Wood decisions on the field. can also boast Academy and was part of the and Allan Greene at two further successful RGS High Wy-Windsor End recently to find The Y2S development initia- internationals combe side which won theout more about the modern tive is led by John Neal and in Olivia Daily Mail Cup in 2011.day establishment. I who both have the benefit Poore who of playing first class rugby represented Ben is also a Lawrence Dal-David Wood and have coached at a senior England laglio Foundation Scholar. club level for many years. Ad- Women in Both players are currentlyEFFORT ditionally Y2S can also draw 2010 and playing for Wasps in the Aviva“The club is putting a sig- upon current 1st XV players Peter Elder Premiership Academy U18nificant amount of effort like club captain Andy Zair as who played League. Beaconsfield can alsointo the development of our well as Gerry Goss and Kwong for England boast two further interna-youth rugby players and Lin who all regularly give U16’s,U18’s and tionals in Olivia Poore whohas launched a new initia- up their time on a Sunday U20’s.” represented England Womentive called Y2S Development morning to pass on their vast in 2010 and Peter Elder who(youth to senior develop- experience to the boys. played for England U16’s,U18’sment) assisting the boys and U20’s.make a smooth transition Evidence suggests that thefrom youth rugby to playing development programme is Andy Zair, Gerry Goss andsenior rugby, hopefully in working with some notable Callum Wilkinson have alsoone of the clubs four senior successes on the field and represented Buckingham-teams. The philosophy of Y2S with twelve U18’s having shire over the last few yearsis to provide our U16’s – U18’s represented the clubs 2nd in the County Championship.”with good quality coaching and 3rd XV’s already thisand development in ‘core season thanks to the efforts Allan Greeneskills’ and ‘game understand- of Y2S assistant coach anding’ within a fun and chal- 3rd XV captain Chris (Chukka) THIS TERMlenging environment. Summers.” “Our current league posi- tion is more frustrating than By developing three age TALENT disappointing. We have lostgroups together it has ena- “The club has two boys in the 7 games by 5 points or lessbled us to accelerate the de- London Wasps Academy, Tom - all in the last 10mins. Wevelopment of our boys as they Howe and Ben Wood who are know we are good enoughlearn from others who maybe both products of the clubs and should be further upmore experienced. Addition- mini and youth system. Tom the table. I hope the play-ally it has enabled us to devel- has represented England at ers believe like I do that weop a consistent and positive U16, U17 and U18 level and re- will get to safety and I hopementality across all three age cently played in Dubai as part they keep playing the brandgroups which encourages an of England Sevens develop- of rugby which for the last 3expansive and attractive style ment squad. Ben represented seasons has been competi-of rugby based on players England U16’s South West tive and enjoyable. I also hope the club as an entirety wants98 | ISSUE 32

BEACONSFIELDto progress in every facet of Andrew Cronan ofa rugby club a little bit each club sponsor Savillsseason.” took the time to tell Rugby ClubMY ROLE  Magazine about his“I like being a Head Coach as company and theirI can play the tactics I want positive associationand I can select the players with Beaconsfield.that I choose. I also like givingback to the game everything He told us, “I have workedI’ve taken out. If any player with Savills since 1995 andwants to listen I’m prepared to have been heading up thedo the time and give out my Beaconsfield office fromexperience of all those years of Bath. The Beaconsfieldplaying. When the team plays office opened in 2006 and wewell, and to its full potential, were very keen to be involvedand certain ploys or plays in the Beaconsfield area,come off then I get massive primarily with the rugby.satisfaction from coaching.The only bad thing is that Savills are a company whoi can’t influence the game have always been involved inwhen it’s in motion as much rugby with our neighbouringas i would like as when i was offices being involved inCaptain.” sponsorship. It is one of the things that we do and“We’d like to Rob Hawkins of club sponsor Hawkins Sports in addition to the annualmodernise sponsorship, anyone whothe clubhouse “I have recently retired from senior rugby having played for employs Savills be it friends/and training local clubs High Wycombe and Maidenhead in what was South families or supporters, wepitches with West Div 1 before the RFU revamped the league system. will donate a cash fee to thefacilities that are club. This provides the clubin keeping with Our business as specialist rugby suppliers was started by with a source of on-goingthe modern game my father, Freddie Hawkins back in 1966 who was playing for income.and get more Wasps at the time and concentrated on supplying local clubsvolunteers involved” and schools with sports equipment, specialising in rugby and We are very keen for the cricket. I joined the business in 1991 and helped to establish club to be able to bring onCHALLENGES the firm as a rugby specialist. its mini club; there is a great“To keep 3 senior sides play- clubhouse and the club caning regularly is a continuing Having played local rugby in the Home Counties and South support the growth of theirchallenge and has been dif- West it helped to increase the firms involvement in the rugby young players. Anything thatficult in the past. We’d like to market with many clubs opening their own ‘mini shops’ with the club requires, we willmodernise the clubhouse and goods supplied by Hawkinsport with the benefit of a personal try and help out with as ourtraining pitches with facilities service for their members. intent is to ensure that thethat are in keeping with the club is able to thrive.modern game and get more Many clubs in the lower leagues have the problem ofvolunteers involved with club attracting players without paying them to play. We think clubs Beaconsfield is very muchactivities. It sometimes seems should aim to find the most suitable league for their standard a focal point of the locallike the same people are dou- without paying their players and concentrate on building up community and this fits inbling up on jobs. Ultimately, their club through mini and youth rugby and through the social well with our businesseswe want to keep the 1st team side of the club so money may be raised to improve the club commitment to beingcompetitive so local rivals that house and training facilities. involved in the local area.have always been above Bea- We got involved with themconsfield in their own mind Hawkinsport has had close links with Beaconsfield for the last year and as soon aswill continue to look over their past 2 years and is now their major supplier of kit. We are keen they gave us the chance weshoulder.” to support Beaconsfield in their efforts to strengthen the club accepted it. on the pitch, socially and financially and look forward to a long and mutually successful relationship in the future.” As a company we’re open on Saturdays but we still manage to get along to watch the team’s home matches. We’re involved because it is an opportunity for us to give money back to the community. We hope to continue our association with Beaconsfield, helping to promote the club through our profile.” www.rugbyclub.biz | 99