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ISSUE 46 / £6.95 / WWW.RUGBYCLUB.BIZ ALCHESTER PLAYING RUGBY FOR THE ENJOYMENT OF THE GAME CHALLENGE CUP LOOKING AHEAD TO THIS SEASON’S FINAL SCARBOROUGH PIRATES COMPETING IN THE YORKSHIRE SUMMER LEAGUEWANSTEAD NORTHAMPTON SAINTSA PIVOTAL PART OF THEIRLOCAL COMMUNITY 2013-14 AVIVA PREMIERSHIP CHAMPIONSALSO FEATURING CRAMLINGTON ROCKETS: THE LATEST WITH CHAIRMANwww.rugbyclub.biz JE1 FF BALL

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RUGBYCLUB CONTENTSPUBLISHED BY PROCESS PUBLISHING LTD 4 NORTHAMPTON SAINTS 37 CAITHNESS 75 RISCASUITE 1, SAVILLE EXCHANGE, 8 KETTERING 39 WELWYN 76 SHEPPEYHOWARD STREET, NORTH SHIELDS, 11 OLNEY 41 ALCHESTER 77 LEICESTER TIGERSNORTH TYNESIDE NE30 1SE 13 NEWCASTLE (STAFFS) 45 ROMSEY 81 SOUTHAM 14 PRUDHOE & STOCKSFIELD 46 BODMIN 82 WINCHESTERWWW.RUGBYCLUB.BIZ 17 CRAMLINGTON ROCKETS 48 WARMINSTER 85 REIGATE 20 FALMOUTH 49 EAST HULL 89 CONEY HILLCOMMERCIAL 21 ISLE OF WIGHT 51 LINCOLN 91 KINGSBRIDGECOMPANY MANAGER 23 ROSSENDALE 54 STOW ON THE WOLD & 94 MELKSHAMANGELA THORNTON 24 FELIXSTOWE DISTRICT 96 MOSBOROUGHT: 0191 477 2376 26 LLANDAFF 56 SCARBOROUGH PIRATES 98 SUDBURYE: [email protected] 28 YORK CITY KNIGHTS 58 WOLVERHAMPTON 100 WELLS 30 REEDS WAYBRIDGE 60 WISBECH 102 ERITHMEDIA DIRECTORS 31 MIDHURST 62 LYDNEY 104 WIVELISCOMBEMALCOLM HOOK 32 HARROW 64 Enfield Ignatians 106 WANSTEADT: 0191 447 6997 33 LOCK LANE 67 FALKIRK 109 IRVINEE: [email protected] 34 ST. BENEDICTS 70 LOWESTOFT & YARMOUTH 110 STREATHAM-CROYDON 35 LOCH LOMOND 73 SOUTH LEICESTER 112 HARTLEPOOLANTHONY GILLEN 36 CEFN COED 74 ROTHERHAM TITANST: 0191 447 6996E: [email protected] FINLAYT: 0191 477 6997E: [email protected] IN CHIEFJAMIE SEYMOURT: 0191 447 2512E: [email protected] SHELDONT: 07884 340 749E: [email protected] GOLDSMITHT: 0191 447 3718E:[email protected] THANKSfront cover image courtesy ofClaire Jones - RedHatPhoto.com FOLLOW US ONLINE 04 TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG NORTHAMPTON SAINTS© PROCESS PUBLISHING LTD ALL RIGHTS RESERVED www.rugbyclub.biz 3No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted inany form or by any mean, or stored in a retrieval system withoutprior written permission, except as permitted under the copyrightdesigns and patents act 1998. Applications for permission for useof copyright material shall be made to the publishers.

NORTHAMPTON SAINTSNORTHAMPTONSAINTSNorthampton Saints have reached the pinnacle of the English game this year,winning both the Aviva Premiership and the Amin Challenge Cup. Speakingto Saints TV the club’s Director of Rugby, Jim Mallinder spoke of thisextraordinary triumph. 4 ISSUE 46

NORTHAMPTON SAINTS www.rugbyclub.biz 5

NORTHAMPTON SAINTSHe said, “I think it will take the You’re going to win and you’re The Staffweekend to actually sink in but it’s going to lose some games butbeen unbelievable. The parade hopefully if you get things right “I want to give a mention tothrough the town centre was a you’re hopefully going to win more our conditioning staff and thefitting end. I think it’s always been than you lose.” physios here because they’vea case of having to deliver since done a magnificent job as wellwe’ve been here. Everyone wants One Club as the coaches. To come backthe club to succeed and the crowd in these last 3 games whereare magnificent, brilliant rugby “It’s vital that the whole club buys we’ve been behind has reallysupporters. We’re absolutely into what you want to achieve. shown our fitness which has beendelighted that we’ve managed to We have had that over a number unbelievable. We’ve been goingpick up two magnificent trophies of years with everybody working for that tryline into the very finalfor them.” so hard and finally got to where minute.” we have got to. We’ve got a reallyThe Process good strong squad here and The Final our U18’s winning is a sign of“I don’t think there’s been any the good players that we’ve got “We were excited ahead of theone defining moment. There have coming through. Whenever we’ve final, it’s a wonderful place to be,been a lot of fantastic moments had players away on international the expectation is massive, theand also some downs as well to duty others have come in and pressure is massive becausebe honest. You can get too carried stepped up which has been key you know it comes down to 80away with one offs, it’s all about for us.” minutes. Its not really about whatgetting your processes right. you’ve done in the week before,6 ISSUE 46

NORTHAMPTON SAINTSit’s the result of all the hard work, part of it and it makes you determinedall the lessons you’ve learned from to do well. I think everybody at theprevious games and finals and club feels that way. We’re proud toputting it all into 80 minutes. be representing Northampton and playing for the people.”During the game you want to go outthere and do it. I’m glad I’m sat a The Futurefew rows back because I would beterrible on the touchline! Its great “We’ve already moved on I think.to be involved; we can make a few We’ve had the weekend to enjoy itsuggestions and bring subs on who which is quite right but then you’vehave had a really good impact all got to quickly start to plan for theyear but ultimately it comes down future. If you don’t then you soon getto the players to go out there and caught up. Its going to be a massiveperform.” challenge again next year because we’re Champions and people willProud want to turn us over. We are looking forward to the ground developments“The club is close to us all. I live in next year and are looking to makeNorthampton; I don’t get away from a few changes to freshen things up.it. I walk down to the paper shop Hopefully next season we’re going toand if we win I get a well done and if come back even better.”we don’t I get abused! It makes you www.rugbyclub.biz 7

ketteringketteringSince last being featured in Rugby an eye on the future! At their first meeting theyClub Magazine back in 2009 the only changed the ethos of the club having realisedconsistent factor at Kettering Rugby as a group that for Kettering Rugby Club toClub has been its Secretary Peter May be sustainable for the future it had to changeas everything around him to do with the way it operated. So out went the import ofthe club (which celebrates its official overseas players, the onus now being put on140th Anniversary in 2015) has changed the development of local players coming throughdramatically both on and off the field. the clubs highly successful Mini/Junior section, the encouragement of local players to come toThe job of Club Secretary has changed over Kettering in order to play at a higher level.his near twenty years of tenure with morework being left to the secretary as people Off the field in order to attract players, sponsors,don’t want to take on any long term or too volunteers and new members of all kinds seriousdemanding roles within the club (although action was required to the clubhouse which hadtalking to other clubs at Kettering’s level, this been neglected as the club had been continuallyseems to be the norm!). rumoured to be moving to a new ground.At the clubs AGM in 2010 virtually the whole So straight away the new committee set aboutpersonnel of the Executive Committee updating the whole clubhouse starting with thechanged as retiring members were changing area, baths were filled in showers werereplaced by like-minded people who had fitted, a physiotherapists room was built before8 ISSUE 46

ketteringwww.rugbyclub.biz 9

ketteringthe club set about the social facilities and over the past out three senior sides, a more than occasional 4th teamfour years a balcony has been built across the front of and some weeks two Vets sides along of course withthe club with doors leading onto it from both bar areas the Colts side. So currently the club is working on a(thanks to the generosity of a Vice President of the ‘Recruitment and Retention Campaign’ in order to getclub) which have both been completely renovated to a more players of all abilities playing the game.very high standard. Challenges for the club over the next five years revolveThe kitchen has been doubled in size to cater for the around making sure there is a consistent supply ofincrease in outside functions and also the development players both for the serious side of 1st team rugby withof pre-match entertainment which has gone from the support that requires and at the social rugby endsandwiches to a 2/3 course sit down lunch pre match. of the game, and to facilitate this all forms of rugbyA decked patio area has just been built in front of the are now played at the clubs Waverley Road groundclubhouse to create another useful facility and an including 7’s and Touch so that all tastes are cateredoutdoor cooking and serving area has been created for.under the new balcony as well as further changing andgym facilities. Ambition wise the club wants to keep creating aThe clubhouse has now returned to its former glory pathway from Under 5’s through to the first teamwith other clubs giving favourable comments when and beyond as has been seen with the like of Jamesthey visit, it has also allowed us to become much more Cannon (Wasps), Will Chudley and Brett Sturgess‘community’ focused with it being used more and more (Exeter Chiefs) playing in the Premiership after comingfor outside events. through the system at Kettering. The aim is to keep the first team at a level which is sustainable and where theOverall the club is in good shape but like other clubs players enjoy their rugby and being part of a club thatof its size has actually lost players over the past few looks after their wellbeing. It is important for the clubyears – whereas in 2009 the club fielded 5 senior to be involved with its community and to be held up byteams plus a monthly Vets side every week, it now puts other clubs as the club they aspire to be! Proud sponsors of Kettering RFC

olney olneyOlney RFC is a community Rugby Club committed There are many other events to look forward toto promoting teamwork, respect, honesty, including the annual sevens tournament beingcommitment and friendship. Their first team played on Saturday 5th July 2014.currently competes in the SSE Midlands Divisionand they run four senior teams, a veterans and a The youth of today is the future of tomorrow andLadies side as well as a thriving youth section. Olney identified the importance of mini rugbyClub Representative John Smith took the time to way back in the 1970’s. Olney RFC is a familytell us more. orientated club and many a proud parent haveHe said, “The club is buzzing at the moment following seen their siblings represent Olney in Cerise andOlney’s recent epic win in the Lewis shield final against French grey .The junior section currently runsNorthampton Scouts at Franklins Gardens. eleven teams with over 500 members and is going from strength to strength. We run a successful colts side which bridges the gap between junior and senior rugby. When young players start playing senior rugby they are gently broken in by playing in teams with experienced and seasoned senior players. Olney have produced several players who have gone onto play at a professional level .The most recent is Duncan Taylor who now represents Saracens and Scotland.

olneyOlney Rugby club is fully integrated has been successfully been turned into threewithin the community and regularly hosts full size pitches as well.community events and charity events.We offer social membership which many Our ladies team has been running for overresidents take advantage of for the social 15 years and came very close to reachingevents. Olney RFC is a community Rugby National 1 level a few years ago. The girls U18Club promoting the very best sporting team have now been in operation for severalqualities of teamwork, respect, honesty, years and have proved to be very successful.commitment and friendship. We havethe best facilities in the area, available to Olney RFC is determined to keep 4 seniorplayers, spectators, sponsors and to local teams playing every week alongside all thebusiness. junior and ladies teams. This is all done on a voluntary basis which the Club are extremelyWe are currently project managing a front grateful for. The ambitions are to keepextension which will increase the amount expanding on the playing and social frontof toilets for the club .The club purchased a along with ambitious plans to further extendlarge field at the front of the clubhouse which the club house that are underway.”12 ISSUE 46

nTeHwEcBaRsITtISlHe AEROP(LsAtNaEfCfOsM) PANYnewcastle(staffs)Based on Lilleshall Road in Staffordshire, Newcastle RUFC’s first XV currently competes in theMidlands 3 West (North) League. They are led by the team of President Tony Marsh and ChairmanRichard Thomas and the club is looking to progress under their guidance.They put together a solid campaign last time out, managing to put together a record of having won12, drawn 1 and lost 9 of their 22 matches. This saw them finish in a mid-table position with 67points on the board.This will give the team a good platform injury or suspension they have the option ofupon which to build as they look ahead to calling players up with a limited amount ofthe 2014/15 season. So long as they are disruption.able to retain their current group of playersand perhaps make one or two quality There is much to admire about the set-up thatsignings they will be optimistic of claiming Newcastle has in place and this is thanks toa higher league finish next time around. the hard work that their Committee has put into making the club a success. Hopefully theyA particular highlight of the team’s form will be able to continue to make progress forwas the attacking brand of rugby that the many years to come and Rugby Club Magazineteam managed to produce. This made wishes them the best of luck.sure that anyone attending matches, be itplayers or supporters, were able to enjoythe fixtures.One of the stand-out features of theNewcastle set-up is the superb youthset-up and they have a number of sidesrunning. These teams look to provideyoung players from the local area with anopportunity to play the game in a safe andenjoyable environment.It is important for any club to be able toproduce their own talent and this is anarea that they appear to have covered.In order to help their youngsters to FABRICATORS & WELDERSsuccessfully make the transition into the GATES & FENCESsenior game they also have additionalteams running. This allows them to give SECURE SHED & INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGSplayers experience of adult rugby even if FREE QUOTATIONSthey are not yet considered ready for firstteam action and can be an important step COMPETITIVE PRICESin the development process. CODED WELDERSAnother benefit of having more than one HOLDITCH HOUSE, HOLDITCH ROAD,team is that it allows the first XV to benefit NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME ST5 9JQ.from far greater strength in depth. If theyare ever left short on numbers through 01782 566410 www.rugbyclub.bizREAD MORE: HTTP://WWW.STOKESENTINEL.CO.UK/TRADESMEN/HOME-IMPROVEMENTS/HOLDITCH-ENGINEERING/BUSINESS-2

THE TETLEY’S CHALLENGE CUPTHE TETLEY’SCHALLENGECUP“I started playing part of history and win There have already been As we approached thebecause my brother VIP tickets to the Tetley’s loads of great stories West Stand a Bullsplayed in a curtain- Challenge Cup final at shared including this supporter spotted thatraiser for the 1985 Wembley Stadium. heart-warmer from Carl my wife was heavilyChallenge Cup final for Whether you were Thomas on Facebook: pregnant, touched herhis school. He told me watching a big match, bump and usheredhow amazing it was to your local club or even “My most memorable everyone in front to letplay at Wembley so I on the pitch yourself, visit to Headingley was her through. I have neverwent to my local club we want to hear your in August 2003. seen anything like it; itand began playing; it stories. Rhinos were playing was like the parting ofgave me an appetite their local rivals Bradford the Red Sea! They allto play – to play at And that’s not all… Bulls and the joint was moved aside and letWembley was my packed! I took my wife her through. Absolutelygoal.\" Embrace the magic of and son and we had to amazing.”Keith Senior: the Cup by mentioning get seats in the NorthChallenge Cup winner your community club and Stand as my wife was So, what are you waitingwith Sheffield Eagles, they could be the proud eight months pregnant for?1998 recipients of one of six with our daughter. £1,000 grants. Find out more andSince 1895, thousands The first winner of our After a fantastic win for get involved atof memories have been one-grand-grants was the Rhinos, we stood facebook.com/made, stories told and the Normanton Knights up to leave via the West tetleyschallengecupwritten, games won and in Wakefield, who did a Stand, which was full or on Twitter @lost, hopes dashed and fantastic job of getting of Bulls fans. My wife TetleysChalCupdreams come true. their entire club involved. looked at me worried andAs the proud sponsor of Now they’ll all enjoy this asked if we could waitthe Tetley’s Challenge victory when the money until they had all gone. ICup, we want to help is invested back into the said: \"This is rugby love!you ‘Pass It On’ and club and its facilities. We'll be just fine!\"share in the sport’s rich They said:heritage. “We’d like to thank allAll you have to do is our players, coaches,share your memorable members and supportersRugby League moments who helped us achieveon Facebook or Twitter the most mentions inusing #TetleysPassItOn March. A big thank youfor your chance to be to Tetley’s for supporting community clubs.”14 ISSUE 46

26_TETLEYS_Passiton_A5_Leaflet_AW.pdf 1 26/03/2014 15:36 * PLUS VIP TICKETS TO THE UP FOR GRABS Find out more at facebook.com/tetleyschallengecup or on twitter @tetleyschalcup*Ts&Cs apply. Full terms and conditions and more details available at www.facebook.com/TetleysChallengeCup or www.twitter.com/TetleysChalCup (Sites). 18+. UK only. Internet access & either Facebook or Twitter account required. To enter go online to one of the Sites and like/followour page and tweet/post a comment (as appropriate) including “#TetleysPassItOn” between 22 Feb & 31 July 2014 (Initial Period) to be entered into a weekly prize draw for a chance to win 1 of 10 pairs of tickets to a Tetley’s Challenge Cup Rugby League match during 2014season. Include your Pass It On story about your passion for rugby league (Story) in your tweet/comment before 31 July 2014 & the best Story each month between March & July 2014, as judged by an independent rugby player, coach or commentator, wins a pair of VIP tickets tothe Tetley’s Challenge Cup Final on 23 August 2014. See Sites for details on judging criteria. Include the name of your RFL-affiliated Community club (Club), excluding teams competing in the Super League, Championship, Championship 1 and Clubs without an adult team in the 2014season in your tweet/comment before 31 July 2014 for a chance for your Club to win £1,000. Entries received between 1 August 2014 & 31 July 2015 will be entered into a prize draw to win a pair of VIP tickets to the Challenge Cup Final in August 2015. Subject to availability.Winners’ responsibility to be available on date of tickets. Restrictions apply, please see reverse of match day tickets. 1 entry per person per day per entry route. No purchase necessary.

Prudhoe & StocksfieldPrudhoe &StocksfieldFirst established in 1982, Prudhoe and Stocksfield RUFC was initially known asPrudhoe Hospital RUFC before changing their name when they moved to their currenthome at the Stocksfield Sports Ground in Northumberland in approximately 1998.They run a single side which competes in the The club is committed to providing anyone wishingDurham/Northumberland 2 League. They are to play for them with a warm welcome and extendled by President Paul Griffiths who is supported this hospitality to people visiting the club. This helpsby Secretary Chris Russell and are looking to to demonstrate their commitment to playing anprogress under their leadership. important role in the local community and is to beThe club has a history of which they have admired.every right to be proud and have experienced aconsiderable amount of success in their history, It would be fair to say that the team did not perhapsincluding victories in the Northumberland Junior enjoy the season that they would have liked thisShield on 3 occasions over a 5 year period. Their time around as they managed to win just 1 of theircurrent group of players will be keen to add to 24 league matches. This left the team bottom of thethese successes in the upcoming years. league with just 6 points on the board. PROUD SPONSORS OF Prudhoe and Stocksfield will be keen to improve on this record next season and will be keen to add a few Prudhoe Stocksfield quality players during the off-season to help them do RUFC this. If they can then they should be in with a good chance of an improved campaign. 13 Battle Hill, Hexham NE46 1BA. Telephone: 01434 601800. There were positives to be taken from last season Email: [email protected] and a number of their squad are young and www.redhotproperty.co.uk therefore still developing. They will have benefitted from a season of rugby and there should be an improvement in their game because of it. The club looks for their older players to pass on their experience to their youngsters and this can only help them successfully transition into the senior game. This will be vital for the team as the best way for them to improve results will be to develop what they already have. Although Prudhoe and Stocksfield did not perhaps enjoy the season that they would have this time around this should not take away from the good work that they are doing. Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck for the future.16 ISSUE 46

cramlington rocketsCramlingtonRocketsCramlington Rockets RLFC is a great example of the vital role a club can play in itslocal community. Rugby Club Magazine caught up with Club Chairman Jeff Ball to findout more about the good work that they have been doing lately.Involvement country. But what has not changed is that enthusiasm and ambition. We’re still striving to be somewhere forHe told us, “I first got involved 7 years ago when now players to excel, to feel safe and have fun.first team coach Steve Beaty Jr invited me to come andhelp out on the back of running a social touch rugby Respect, Commitment and Fun are the three pillarsteam we both played for. When I turned up that first of all we do and there is a genuine ambition to be theday, there was about 15 players on a dilapidated school best club in the North East. And that’s what has keptfield next to a lake that was popular with dog walkers, me here for so long. Despite not having grown upbut as a group of people, the enthusiasm and ambition with rugby league, it’s the opportunity to be a part ofwas evident from the off.” something special that makes a positive difference to everyone involved.”The Club Volunteers“Fast forward to now and it is a world apart from wherewe were then. 15 players have become 150 and that “Finding the time is the hardest side of things, as anyfield is now officially one of the best Sports Clubs in the volunteer will tell you. There’s always some project we’re working on that needs a dedicated chunk of time and effort. The one thing they never tell you about before you volunteer is the paperwork! The most rewarding part of the job is the people. By far. Everyone’s time is becoming more and more precious in modern life so to have around 20 volunteers and 150 players who make that commitment every week says a lot about our members. We’re blessed to have a large group of able and dedicated people who have bought into what we want to do. They’re optimistic while being realistic and honest with each other which means the good ideas are the ones that rise to the top when we’re planning projects. That means if I or someone else hasn’t got the time one week, there are enough people happy to step in and help.” Atmosphere “The mood here is good! Really good, there’s a lot of momentum building on the pitch and off the pitch we seem to be adding new members every week. The facilities here are award winning and professionally run and that rubs off. Every year, we’ve grown and that growth seems to be accelerating. We keep hitting new highs and it is up to us to keep the momentum up.” www.rugbyclub.biz 17

mgoornoindg! advmaeaivydiledauranBytyliel Brfreoamk£f3a.95st Add unlimited teA or coffee for An AdditionAl £1.95 per person lunJcusht £6m.95enu 2 courses £9.45 3 courses £10.95 AVAil ABle mondAY–fridAY, 11Am–5pm specials menu 1 course £9.95 add a starter or dessert for Just £2 each AVAil ABle All dAY, sundAY – fridAY Ask Your serVer for the menu 25% offmore pizza for your pound! your food Bill eVerY mondAY After 5pm excluding bank holidays. terms & conditions apply please fill in your details five poundsFull Name: off your food BillHouse name/number: valid When aT leasT 2 main Courses are purChasedPostcode:Restaurant Location: To spend aT The CramlingTon resTauranTPlease enter your email address and mobile number here, so that we Terms & conditions: Voucher entitles bearer to £5 off their food bill when at leastcan keep you updated with details of future offers and discounts two main courses are purchased from the main menu. Not valid in conjunction with the specials menu. Excludes Mondays after 5pm (Monday Madness). Valid MondayEmail Address: - Friday until 01.08.14. Excludes bank holidays. Data capture must be completed andMobile: voucher must be surrendered upon redemption. . One voucher be used per table. Valid at Frankie & Benny’s Cramlington only. Excludes airport locations. Not for resale. No cash value. Please tick here if you do not want us to write Photocopies not accepted.to you with details of offers in future manor Walks cramlington ne236ut | te l: 01670 730394

CRAMLINGTON ROCKETSYouth players going on to play in the Super League or for England. Of course there is a big difference between“The junior section is the absolute foundation of saying that and making it happen but the desire is thereeverything we do. From September we’re going to and the foundation is becoming more solid every year.be coaching 3,000 children in the Cramlington area Every day we try and move forward and improve whatover the next two years, which is pretty much all of the we do. If we do that every day then I truly believe weeligible players in the area. We’ve also got a sixth form will achieve our goals.”rugby academy being set up at the high school that willbe run by Rockets coaches. Newcastle: 0191 276 5555 www.premier-electrical.uk.comOur vision is to have kids playing rugby now at the ageof 6, go into the academy at 16 and coming out the Products Include: Motor Controlother side to go into our first team or on to professional Programmers & Timershonours. We want to make Cramlington a centre Energy Saving Ideas Securityfor rugby league and really imbed ourselves as a Lighting Fittings Space & Water Heatingcornerstone of the community.” Lamps & Tubes Switchgear Cable Site EquipmentCommunity Cable Accessories Test Instruments Cable Management Tools“We always say we don’t play in Cramlington, we Datacoms Ventilationplay for Cramlington. We’re massively proud to be Domestic Wiringhere and we moved here in 2009 to meet the huge Fire & Emergency Lightingappetite for rugby league. Including the players’ families Home Automationand friends, we have around 350 members who weregularly engage with and they are all equally important Unit 1, Chillingham Industrial Estate, Shields Road, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, NE6 2XXto us. We call it the Rockets Family and tell anyonenew it is their club and it is up to them how good it canbe. Northumberland too is such a proud region andit means a lot to us that we were the first ever rugbyleague team in the county.”Challenges/Ambitions“Given the current rate we’re growing at, having spacefor everyone to train is a challenge! We’re definitely in asweet spot at the moment but we’re not resting on ourlaurels. As with any sport, there’ll be ups and downs.But we are not results driven. Instead, we want to buildthe best environment we can in the belief that goodresults are the by-product of being as well prepared aswe can be.We want to be the best club in the North East, with thebest facilities, double the numbers we have now with www.rugbyclub.biz 19

FalmouthFalmouthFalmouth RFC play their home games at The Recreation Ground in Cornwall and their firstteam currently competes in the Tribute Cornwall/Devon League. They are led by the teamof President Ivan Winn and Chairman Kim Conchie and are looking to progress undertheir guidance.They enjoyed a solid campaign last time a round Another benefit of having more than one side isas they managed to put together a record of that it allows the first XV to benefit from far greaterhaving won 12, drawn 1 and lost 11 of their 24 strength in depth. If they are ever left short onmatches. This saw them finish in the top half of numbers through injury or work commitments thenthe table with 61 points on the board. they have the option of calling players up with a limited amount of disruption.This should provide the team with a good platform Falmouth is a club that is clearly benefitting fromupon which to build as they head into the off- the strong set-up that they have in place off theseason. So long as they are able to retain their field and this is reflected in the positive resultscurrent group of players and perhaps make one they have been gaining on it. Hopefully they willor two quality additions they should be able to be able to continue in the same manner for manyperform well again next year and may be able to years to come.mount a title challenge. Hine Downing SolicitorsFalmouth is not a club that focuses solely upon are proud to supporttheir senior section however and they also have Falmouth RFCa number of youth sides up and running. Theseteams look to provide young players from the 8-14 Berkeley Vale Falmouthlocal area with an opportunity to play the game in 01326 316655a safe and enjoyable environment. www.hinedowning.comIt is vital for sides to be able to produce their owntalent if they want to be successful, particularly Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulationin the current financial climate. Coaching staff Authority No. 51256overseeing their junior teams are confident thatthey have a number of players that are capable ofgoing on to represent them at senior level.In order to help their youngsters to make thesometimes difficult transition into the senior game,Falmouth also has a 2nd team in place. Thisallows them to give players experience of adultlevel rugby even if they are not yet consideredready for first team action. 20 ISSUE 46

Isle of WightIsle oFWightFirst established in 1924, Isle of Wight RFC is going through an exciting period at themoment at their Wootton Recreational Ground. Chairman Nick Puckett took the time totell us more.Involvement Since then I have clocked up 20 odd years of first team appearances, which is probably somewhere aroundHe told us, “I have been involved with the club since 500 first team games in all competitions. Isle of WightI was about 14, firstly playing schoolboy rugby , then RFC is the original club on the island and as such itcolts. I did attempt to play football for a period from is the home of rugby here. I couldn’t imagine being aabout 18 to 22 but realised the error of my ways and member of any other club – we at IWRFC are a funreturned to rugby. family oriented club who play a decent bit of rugby, where else could I find that mix over here?” Atmosphere “The club is going through a period of immense change at the moment and that causes both expectation and anxiety. Off the field we have been fortunate in getting a few grants that are steadily turning our 1970’s facilities into a modern one. We have had a full floodlit pitch installed, and have the clubhouse social space due to be completely refurbished over the summer – thanks to Jay Bowers at RFU HQ with the lead up and legacy, fit for 15 awards. We have also modernised our business so that we can be sustainable in the future – we have become a Limited Company and a CASC. All these things going on off the pitch and with the family friendly aspect to our club gives us expectation that we will attract and maintain players and improve on our league positions – that after all is our main aim.” Youth “The set up with youth is a bit strange on the Island. No senior club has its own youth section. Instead there is a separate club, Vectis RFC, which looks after all the youth sides from Minis to Colts. They do a fantastic job of keeping youth players interested and playing but I think it shouldn’t be just sown to them. I think the senior schools/academies and colleges here could raise the profile of Rugby more by playing www.rugbyclub.biz 21

Isle ofWightthe game more. The RFU have appointed All too often games are cried off, many at thea Community Rugby Coach for the Island very last minute which means that playersand he is also doing a fantastic job in getting are let down, we waste food and lose barinto schools and promoting the game. To takings. But mostly the impact is on thequote a song, ‘I believe that children are our numbers of players wishing to train – if theyfuture’…. Never a truer word spoken!” don’t get a game at the weekend they go and find other things to do, this affects the qualityIntegration of the teams but also the viability of the club.“Bringing young players through can be really Our ambitions are to get the clubhousedifficult here because of the 4 senior sides finished, start a ladies team, establish aand one youth set up. That, in combination 10’s tournament, get within the top 4 of ourwith a large proportion of youths leaving league, create closer links with schools/the Island for University and never coming colleges, have 100 people in the bar whenback. There is a real hiatus then in ages of England lift the World Cup at Twickenham,rugby players between 17 and 22. It is the and for people to enjoy playing Rugby.”attraction of the 21–22 year olds that needsaddressing here and we do that by playingSummer Touch, social events, getting intothe community and having fun days at theclub.We are definitely a community club, we arehowever not just a town side, we are trulyan Island Wide team as such we wouldencourage players from all over the Islandto come and try out rugby here at the Isle ofWight RFC.”Challenges/Ambitions“The biggest challenges for us arerecruitment and retention. We are doing allwe can to make our environment inviting andour business sustainable. And it is a businessthese days. Rugby clubs culture even at ourlevel has changed. The biggest threat thoughto Isle of Wight Rugby and not just my club isthe ability for teams to travel to visit us. 22 ISSUE 46

RossendaleRossendaleRossendale RUFC plays their home games at the Rossendale Sports Club on NewchurchRoad in Lancashire and they currently compete in the SSE National League 3 North. Theyare led by the team of President Francis Jelly and Chairman Nicholas Ingham and havemade a considerable amount of progress under their guidance.They put together a solid campaign last time If they are ever left short on numbers throughout as they finished with a record of having injury or work commitments they have thewon 14 and lost 12 of their 26 matches. This option of calling players up with a limitedsaw them finish in the top half of the table with amount of disruption.68 points on the board. Rossendale is clearly a club that plays an important role in the local community, givingThis should provide them with a good platform people of all ages and abilities a chance toupon which to build as they head into the play the game.off-season. So long as they are able to retain Hopefully they will be able to keep up thetheir current group of players and perhaps good work that they have been doing for manymake one or two quality additions then they’ll years to come.have a good chance of pushing higher up theleague next time around. www.rugbyclub.biz 23A standout feature of the Rossendale set upis the superb youth section that they have inplace.This part of the club looks to provide youngplayers from the local area with an opportunityto play the game in a safe and enjoyableenvironment whilst helping them to reach theirfull potential.It is important for any team to be able toproduce their own talent, particularly in thecurrent financial climate.Coaching staff overseeing this part of theclub are confident that they have a numberof youngsters with the potential to go on andrepresent their first team.In order to help them to make the transitioninto the senior game, Rossendale also have anumber of additional senior sides.This allows them to give players experienceof the adult game even if they are not yetconsidered ready for first team action andcan be an important step in the developmentprocess.Another benefit of having more than one sideis that it allows the first team to benefit fromfar greater strength in depth.

FELIXSTOWEFELIXSTOWEFelixstowe RFC are looking to build success around a strong youth set up and are puttinga large amount of effort into the development of young players. Rugby Club Magazinecaught up with Club Representative Rob Brewster to find out more about their approach.Involvement Proud to support Mini Rugby in FelixstoweHe said, “I’ve been a member of Felixstowe For all your signageRugby Club for over 20 years having joined as manufacturinga teenager. Back then I was more interested inbasketball but was approached in the street by design & installationour then colts coach who asked me if I’d give needs visitRugby a try. It was one of the best decisionsI’ve ever made. Felixstowe Rugby Club was and www.marketingforceservices.co.ukstill is one of the friendliest and warmest clubsaround. 01394 672467What we lack in size we more than make up for @mfssignage Largein heart. I now run the minis and youth section of /marketingforceservices FormatFelixstowe Rugby Club with the enormous help UV Printing!of other ex –players and parents and this hasgrown from a handful of players 3 years ago to Pavement Signs Corporate Signage Shop Signswell over 100 kids at 6 different age groups from Vehicle Graphics Window Graphics Light BoxesU7’s right through to a Colts team.”The Role“Felixstowe is surrounded by water on 3 sides(the north sea and the rivers Orwell and Deben)and this makes our catchment area for newplayers really small compared to other clubsin Suffolk. Our nearest big town is Ipswich andthey run two bigger rugby clubs that suck inplayers from outlying villages etc. Football is alsothe major sport in Felixstowe so a challenge isto try and get children to try Rugby. The mostrewarding aspect is the growth of the minis andyouth section of the club.” Conveniently situated just outside Felixstowe, and with easy parking, visit our showroom to browse our wide range of carpets and flooring and for a friendly informal discussion with our experienced staff. Proud supporters of Felixstowe RFC. Eastcliff Carpets, 109 High Road West, Felixstowe, Suffolk IP11 9JA. Tel: 01394 283518. Email: [email protected] www.eastcliffcarpets.co.uk 24 ISSUE 46

FelixstoweAtmosphere Challenges/Ambitions“The mood at the club is really good; the minis “Our senior side needs to develop and we need moreand youth section is growing every year and players. We came very close to calling off games lastthe foundations for the future of the club is season because of player availability. We need to keepcoming together. The club recently received RFU the senior side going in the next 2–3 years to allow theaccreditation and plans are underway for a new current youth and colts team to some through. The longclubhouse, floodlights and more pitches at our term future looks bright but we all need to work hardground at Coronation Park in Felixstowe. Next to make the short term a success too. We also want toyear’s Rugby World Cup in England is also a great build a new clubhouse and to encourage more childrenopportunity to further promote Rugby in the town choosing to play Rugby. Next year’s Rugby World Cupand we hope to attract a number of new players as in England will be key to this.”a result.” We work with you to find the most cost-effectiveYouth solutions to your freight and logistics requirements.“Youth rugby is vital to us; our senior side has We bring vast knowledge, experience, professional skills,struggled in recent years so building a successful partner carriers, freight service ancillary facilitiesminis and youth section is vital for the future of thesenior side. We should see the benefits of this in a and hardworking, honest people to your organisation.couple of year’s time when our colts start to makethe switch to senior rugby. we are the largest privately owned UK freight forwarder and just celebrated our 30 years in the business-weTo help ensure young players make the step upwe run a number of social and community events cover seafreight/roadfreght/warehousing/Drinks Logisticsthroughout the year to build camaraderie in the and all enquiries are welcome -club and to raise the profile of rugby in the town. no matter how small or big.Youth players and senior players attend theseevents together. We also invite the older youths to Uniserve Ltdsenior training sessions and visa versa.” London Mega Terminal Thurrock Park WayProgression Tilbury Essex“Our minis and youths have a good number of RM18 7HDplayers showing great promise and Felixstoweregularly produces young players that go on torepresent Suffolk and Eastern Counties. Our bettersenior players tend to fly the nest to join biggerclubs in Ipswich. Our hope is that in the near futurewe will retain these better players as their personalplaying ambitions will be achieved by staying attheir home club.”Community“We are definitely a community club; we play avery active role in the Felixstowe community. Weregularly support the annual Felixstowe CharityFun Run, The Carnival as well as going into localprimary and secondary schools in the town tohelp with P.E. lessons and to raise the profile ofrugby and to try and recruit new players at all agegroups.”Facilities“Our current clubhouse is small and thereis currently lots of work going on behind thescenes to redevelop it, as we will soon outgrowit. Our recent RFU accreditation and our positivediscussions with the local council will go a longway to enable us to raise the funds required fora new clubhouse, floodlights and to develop therugby ground as a whole. We are blessed with oneof the best pitches in East Anglia so we now needthe facilities to go with it.” www.rugbyclub.biz 25

LlandaffLlandaffFirst established in 1876, Llandaff RFC plays their home games at Bishop’s Field and theirfirst team currently competes in Division 4 South East of the SWALEC Leagues. They areled by Chairman Alan Thomas and are looking to progress under his guidance.They enjoyed a steady campaign last season, It is importantmanaging to put together a record of having won 8, for any clubdrawn 2 and lost 12 of their 22 matches. This saw to be able tothem finish in a safe mid-table position within the produce theirleague with 49 points on the board. own talentThis should give the team a good platform to buildupon as they look ahead to the 2014-15 season. Solong as they are able to retain their current groupof players they should be in with a good chance ofclaiming a higher league finish, while adding one ortwo quality players could see them mount a push forpromotion.Llandaff is not a club that focuses solely upontheir senior section however and they also have anumber of youth sides up and running. These teamslook to provide young players from the local areawith an opportunity to play the game in a safe andenjoyable environment.It is important for any club to be able to produce David Phillips of Flocon recently spoke to Rugbytheir own talent particularly in the current economic Club Magazine.“We were looking for a different wayclimate and this is an area that they appear to have to entertain our customers, who are based all overcovered. It will certainly be exciting to watch to see the UK and when we were approached by Llandaffhow their youngsters are able to develop over the RFC about being involved with the club we thoughtcoming years. we would take them up on their offer. This has proved to be not only very successful but a very enjoyableIn order to help their young players to make the experience and our customers always have a greatsometimes difficult transition into senior level rugby, time. As a company it is also very important forLlandaff also have a number of additional teams in us to give something back to the local communityplace. This allows them to give them experience of and to support organisations who are involved inadult level rugby even if they are not yet considered junirop and youth projects. The club do a lot of workready for first team action which can be an impor- in the development of their junior rugby and this istant step in the development process. particularly pleasing to us. My own experience in coaching has always been in football not rugby butAnother benefit of having extra teams is that it similar principals apply and I understand what aallows the first team to benefit from far greater rewarding experience this can be for both parties. Istrength in depth. If they are ever left short on wish all associated with the rugby club a successfulnumbers through injury or suspension they have the future and would encourage Llandaff to continue whatoption of calling players up with a limited amount of they are doing in strongly supporting youth rugbydisruption. and i am sure those youngsters will grow up, and eventually take over the reins in a similar successfulThere is much to admire about the set-up that fashion.”Llandaff RFC currently has in place. Hopefully theywill be able to keep up the good work that they havebeen doing for many years to come and everyone atRugby Club Magazine would like to wish them thebest of luck.26 ISSUE 46

THE BRITISH AEROPLANE COMPANYwww.rugbyclub.biz 27

York CityKnightsYork CityKnightsThere is much to admire about the set up that York City Knights currently has inplace and they clearly play a vital role in their local community. Rugby Club Magazinecaught up with the Club’s Community Development Manager Jack Stearman to findout more.He told us, “I have been involved with the York City New Earswick All Blacks, York Acorn and Heworth toKnights since I was just 17 years old, when back in develop young, talented rugby league players and help2006 I signed for the reserve team, the first year the them to progress to first team players.club ran such a development squad. We give the amateur clubs in the city the chance to face the Knights with a ‘York Select’ side each pre-I am York born and bred and have always played season, and it’s a wonderful opportunity for the youngRugby League in the local community at local clubs local players to face the city’s premier rugby leagueYork Acorn and then later at the New Earswick AllBlacks, so when the opportunity arose to sign for my www.rugbyclub.biz 28hometown club I obviously took it with open arms.This led me into my role now. I volunteered at the clubin the community development role while I was still atUniversity, helping out Jason Ramshaw, Adam Prentisand Tom Harberecht complete coaching sessions,assemblies and holiday clubs alike and really gained alot from that experience.In 2010 I was taken on full time in the communitydevelopment team, progressing not only off the pitch,but taking in playing duties too.The fantastic thing about my role is that there are somany worthwhile aspects to it, and that every day isdifferent. One day I will be going into schools, deliveringtag rugby coaching sessions and the next deliveringhealthy lifestyle programmes.I also have to form links with local partners andsponsors to help raise funds, and awareness of theYork City Knights Foundation, which is the local charityassociated with the York City Knights, which considersthe interest of social welfare to improve the qualityof life by providing and assisting in facilities for sport,physical activity and health and social inclusion.The invaluable work the York City Knights do in thelocal community has seen us form partnerships with thelocal amateur community clubs in the area, York Lokos, 28 ISSUE 46

side in a match. It also gives them that York Cityadded incentive to impress the Knights Knightscoaches in attendance, as obviously itcan help to catch their eye and potentially The general mood within the club at thisput them on the radar of the Knights in moment in time is very positive. With usorder to make the step up from amateur currently flying high in Championship 1to professional or semi-professional in the we are pushing towards promotion to themonths ahead. Championship and, with the league structures changing next year, giving us an opportunityYouth development is a huge part of the to fulfill our ambition of being a premiereclub, which has seen 11 players from the Super League team.Under 20s squad represent the First Teamthroughout the last couple of seasons. The team will be switching homes from Huntington Stadium, in September, to sharingThis stems from the Tag Rugby Programmes with the Football Club at Bootham Crescentthat we run in primary schools, helping in order for a historic brand new sharedchildren progress by pointing them in the Community Stadium to be built where ourdirection of their local Rugby League clubs, current home is currently situated.to the York College Development Centre,to our Under 20s squad creating a clear The plans for this new stadium are huge andpathway for players to reach their potential. it will be a real hub within the community of York, bringing classrooms, learning centres,In fact this season, the average age of our outdoor sports pitches and retail units, whichstarting 13 has generally been around the will really aid the development of the York21/22 years mark whilst at least 8/9 of those City Knights on and off the field. We will behave come through the grassroots York able to operate from our home arena thatrugby league system, showing how vital the whole city can be proud of and hopefullythe club is to bringing to the fore the next continue to be a hugely sustainable (bothgenerations of York based Rugby League socially and economically) brand for thesuperstars. foreseeable future.”29 ISSUE 46 www.rugbyclub.biz 29

ReedsWeybridgeReedsWeybridgeBased on North Avenue in Surrey, Reeds Weybridge’s first team currently competesin the Surrey 4 League having first been established in 1931. They are led by the teamof President Simon Wallis and Chairman Ed Peters and have made a considerableamount of progress under their leadership.The club is situated in the picturesque Whiteley Reeds Weybridge have been playing some ‘‘Village and is able to boast some of the best terrific rugby this year and with the outstandingplaying surfaces in the area. youth set-up that they have in place should be able to continue entertaining their supporters forThey pride themselves on being a, “family-friendly many years to come. Everyone at Rugby Clubrugby club, open to all with an enthusiasm for Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck.the game and the life-long friendships that areforged around a shared passion.” This helps to ‘‘Florentia has a win-win combinationemphasise the club’s commitment to being an of excellent photographer skills,important part of the local community. pleasant personality and creative ideas. I am recommending her 100%!One of the standout features of the club is the Top qualities:outstanding youth section that they have in place Great Results, Personable, Creativeas they look to provide anyone wishing to play the MARIA KYRIAKIDOU-KARMIOTIgame with a chance to do so. This part of the club - CEO,The Lighthousehas grown significantly in recent years and enjoysa strong reputation in the local area for being able 9 Woodland Grove,Weybridge, Surrey KT13 9EF. Tel: 07703129723. www.florentia.co.ukto produce quality youngsters. www.rugbyclub.biz 30It is important for any club to be able to producetheir own talent, particularly in the current financialclimate and this is an area that Reeds Weybridgeappears to have covered. Coaching staff involvedwith the youth section are confident that theyhave a number of players on their books with thepotential to go on and play senior rugby for theclub and it will certainly be exciting to see how theyare able to develop in the coming years.Their first team enjoyed a strong campaign thistime around as they managed to put togethera record of having won 9 and lost 7 of their 16matches. This saw them finish near the top of thetable with 50 points on the board.This should provide them with a good platformupon which to build as they look ahead to the2014-15 season. So long as they are able to retaintheir current group of players and perhaps makeone or two quality additions they will have a greatchance of securing promotion. 30 ISSUE 46

MIDHURSTMIDHURSTThere is much to admire about the fine work Another ongoing challenge is recruitment for allthat has been done at Midhurst Rugby Club areas of the club from junior to senior players,in recent times. coaches and volunteers.Rugby Club Magazine caught up with theclub’s Fixture Secretary Belinda Warken to Our ambitions include the refurbishment to thefind out more. club house, from changing room upgrades to kitchen replacement and extending club roomShe told us, “Coming from the southern space, so a lot of fund raising and dedicationhemisphere where rugby flows through the from members will be required.blood it was a forgone conclusion that myselfand my son Matthew would join and be involved As a parent I find nothing better then beingin the local rugby club. This was back in 2003. able to spend time with my son on a Saturday afternoon watching him play a game he enjoys,Standing on the side line every weekend during then having a laugh and pint in the club housethe rugby season supporting it only makes afterwards with him and a great mixture ofsense to join in and help the club. friends…..all is good in the world when rugby is played.”Plus the company I work for, MidhurstEngineering, are and have been for several BMW 116i Sportyears sponsors of the 1st team kit, our directorMr Brian Morgan was one of the founding Barons Hindhead The Ultimatemembers of the rugby club in 1981, his sons Driving MachineMichael and Richard Morgan are still playingrugby for club. £199 A MONTH.*Like many others at the club I have a few roles AN ORDINARY CAR? OR A BMWfrom cooking match food, collecting subs, senior 1 SERIES AT AN EXTRAORDINARYmembership, fund raising and of course my title MONTHLY PAYMENT.job Fixture Secretary for the senior teams since2011-2012 season. Text 199 to 66777 for more information. www.baronshindheadbmw.co.ukI’m a great believer that sport is so important forthe individual and society in general, especially Barons Hindhead BMW ECONOMICS.a team sport like rugby. It enables you to meetnew people, build friendships and brings the London Road, Hindhead, Surrey GU26 6AEcommunity together, that’s reward enough forme. 01428 852109The mood at Midhurst Rugby Club is generally www.baronshindheadbmw.co.ukpositive; we really have a great group of playersand social members. I would say we definitely Official fuel economy figures for the BMW 116i Sport 5-door Sports Hatch:are a family orientated club; we welcome Urban 38.7mpg (7.3l/100km). Extra Urban 60.1mpg (4.7l/100km). Combinedeveryone and try to get involved in and assist 50.4mpg (5.6l/100km). CO2 emissions 131g/km. Figures may vary dependingthe local community as much as we can. on driving style and conditions. *Deposit £2,920.15. Finance based on a 48 month Contract Hire agreement for a BMW 116i SportThe challenges for us to face as a club are to 5-door Sports Hatch ordered between 1 April and 30 June 2014 and registered by 30 Septemberkeep the positive vibe, ensure communication 2014. Subject to vehicle availability and contract mileage of 32,000 miles and excess mileageis not broken down between players of all age charge of 4.75p (exc. VAT). At the end of your agreement you must return the vehicle. Subject togroups. status and in the UK only (excluding the Channel Islands and Isle of Man). Individuals must be 18 or over. A guarantee may be required. Prices are correct at time of printing (June 2014) and areIt’s also difficult maintaining a player base subject to change without notice. Hire provided by BMW Financial Services, Bartley Way, Hook,especially in the senior teams with players Hampshire RG27 9UF. We commonly, but not exclusively, introduce customers to BMW Financialhaving their own work and family commitments, Services. This introduction does not amount to independent financial advice.so definitely a challenge that is constantlyworked on by our rugby director Andrew Down. www.rugbyclub.biz 31

HARROW There is clearly much to admire about the superb work that Harrow have been doingHARROW and this comes from a strong set-up off the field. Hopefully they will be able to keep upBased at Grove Field in Middlesex, Harrow the good work that they have been doing forRFC’s first team currently compete in the many years to come and everyone at RugbyLondon 3 North West Division. They are led Club Magazine would like to congratulateby the team of President John Church and them on a terrific season.Chairman Andrew Smart and have made aconsiderable amount of progress under their Our Servicesguidance. SAPThey enjoyed a fantastic season last time (senior authorised person)around as they managed to put together arecord of having won 19 and lost just one of Annual Inspectionstheir league matches. Unsurprisingly this saw HV & LV Switchgear Maintenancethem finish top of the table giving them a well- HV Installation, Testing & Commissioningdeserved title as they racked up 87 points in LV Installation, Testing & Commissioningtotal. Transformer MaintenanceNot a team to rest on their laurels however, Transformer Installation, Testing & CommissioningHarrow’s attentions will have now turnedtowards the 2014-15 campaign and ensuring Cable Fault Locationthat they are successful once again. So long HV & LV Cable Installation, Testing & Jointingas they are able to retain their current group ofplayers and perhaps make one or two quality Emergency Call Outsadditions they should be well positioned to Proud supporters of Harrow RFC.challenge for further honours. 21a The Avenue, Hatch End, Pinner, Middlesex, London HA5 4EN.It is not just their senior section that is thriving Telephone: 020 8428 5825.however as they also have a superb youthsection in place. This part of the club looks to Email: [email protected] www.indss.co.ukprovide young players from the local area withan opportunity to play the game in a safe andenjoyable environment whilst helping them toreach their full potential.It is important for any club to be able to producetheir own talent, particularly in the currentfinancial climate and this is an area that Harrowappears to have covered. Coaching staffoverseeing their juniors are confident that theyhave a number of players on their books withthe potential to have a successful career.To help their young players to make thesometimes difficult transition into senior levelrugby, Harrow also has a reserve team running.This allows them to give players experienceof the adult game even if they are not yetconsidered ready for first team action.Another benefit of having more than one teamis that it allows the first XV to benefit from fargreater strength in depth. If they are ever leftshort on numbers through injury or suspensionthey have the option of calling players up with alimited amount of disruption. 32 ISSUE 46

LOCK LANELOCK LANEBased at Lock Lane Sports Centre in West Yorkshire, Lock Lane RLFCcurrently competes in the Premier Division of the National ConferenceLeague. They are led by Chairman Michael Wildley who is supported bySecretary Dean Elliott and the club has made a considerable amount ofprogress under their guidance.Their first team have been in area with an opportunity to allows the first team to benefitgood form so far in the league, enjoy the game in a safe and from far greater strength inmanaging to put together a enjoyable environment. depth. If they are ever leftrecord of having won 8 and lost short on numbers throughjust 4 of their first 12 matches. It is important for any club injury or suspension they haveThis sees them sitting near the to be able to produce their the option of calling playerstop of the table with 16 points own talent, particularly in up with a limited amount ofon the board. the current financial climate disruption. and this is an area that theyThis should provide the team appear to have covered. It Lock Lane’s start to thewith a perfect platform from will be exciting to see how season gives them a greatwhich to go on and have a their young players are able chance of putting togethersuccessful campaign. So long to develop over the coming a campaign to remember.as they are able to keep up their years. Hopefully they will be ablecurrent level of form they will to continue to play in thefind themselves right amongst In order to help their juniors same way and if they do theythe contenders come the end of to successfully make the may just manage to claimthe season. sometimes difficult transition silverware in the near future. into the senior game LockOne of the highlights of their Lane also has an ‘A’ team ingood season so far has been place. This allows them to givethe attacking brand of rugby young players experience ofthat they have been producing. adult level rugby even if theyThis is reflected by the fact that are not yet considered readythey are one of the top scorers for first team action.in the league having racked Another benefit of havingup a total of 368 points at an more than one team is that itaverage of more than 30 permatch.Playing with such style andpace certainly ensures thatany supporters coming alongto watch their matches arewell entertained and shouldhelp to encourage more ofthe community to get behindthe team. It will also help theplayers at the club to enjoy theirrugby and produce their best.As well as having a strong We now hold a PPC licence We hold a huge selection of We work in the purchasefirst team Lock Lane also put and have invested in a brand transformers which we can and removal of transformersa considerable amount of new Oil Recycling and storage refurbish them to your and associated equipmenteffort into the development facility. This purpose built oil specification. from electrical substationsof young players. With this in recycling plant is now fully and offer full consultationmind they have a strong youth operational. regarding dismantling andset-up which looks to provide removal techniques.youngsters from the local Unit 1 Park Springs, Spring Hill Road, Grimethorpe S72 7 BQ. Tel: 01226724209. www.ckbeckett.co.ukISSUE 45 www.rugbyclub.biz 33

ST BENEDICTSST.BENEDICTSSt Benedicts RUFC is based on Newlands Avenue in Cumbria and their first teamcurrently competes in the North Lancs and Cumbria League. They are led byChairman Michael Morgan who is supported by Secretary Stephen House and theclub has made a considerable amount of progress under their guidance.Last season they put together a strong record in the league, finishing with arecord of having won 19, drawn 1 and lost 6 of their 26 matches. This saw themfinish near the top of the table with 81 points on the board.A particular highlight of the team’s ever left short on numbers through injurygood play was the attacking brand of or suspension then they have the option ofrugby that they managed to produce. calling players up with a limited amount ofThis was reflected by the fact that they disruption.scored over 600 points at a rate ofmore than 20 per game. St Benedicts is clearly a club that is heading in the right direction on the pitch and this isThis certainly meant that any thanks to the hard work that their Committeesupporters attending their matches have been putting in off it. Hopefully theywere well entertained and should will be able to continue in the same mannerhelp to encourage more of the local for many years to come and everyone atcommunity to get behind them in the Rugby Club Magazine would like to wishcoming years. It also helps to ensure them the best of luck.that their players enjoy representingthe club and should help them to attract GOLD AWARD WINNERnew players as they have a growingreputation in the game. PA GINOOTDTheir good performances this time WELL MADEaround should provide them with asuperb platform upon which to build A GOOD PINTas they look ahead to next season.So long as they are able to retain their WELL MADEcurrent group of players and perhapsmake one or two quality additions they www.thwaites.co.ukshould be in with a good chance of @Daniel_Thwaitesmounting a title challenge. facebook.com/ThwaitesBeersSt Benedicts is a club that is committed www.rugbyclub.biz 34to providing as many players aspossible from their local area with anopportunity to play the game. This isreflected by the fact that they also havean additional senior side in place.Having more than one team at seniorlevel allows the first XV to benefit fromfar greater strength in depth. If they are 34 ISSUE 46

Loch LochLomond LomondBased at Beechwood Pavilion in West CommunityDunbartonshire, Loch Lomond will becompeting in Division 1 of the Scottish “The mood in the club is really positive at theHydro Electric West League. Rugby Club moment, we have engaged the SRU and WestMagazine caught up with Club captain Iain Dunbartonshire Council to grow the club and itsNorrie. playing base at all levels. I would consider us aInvolvement community club and we have close links with aHe told us, “I have now been involved with local archery club and the residents committeethe club for over 10 years. I played rugby where we are based and both use our clubhousefor Dumbarton Rugby Club mini and junior and grounds. I would like to involve other clubssection which was one of the clubs that in our long term future that could help us achievemerged to form LLRFC. I stopped playing just our dream of new first class facilities within thebefore I left high school but was convinced next 10 years.”to start playing again by my younger brotherwho was the first team captain at the time.” YouthThe Role“We have had a difficult year at the club with “Youth rugby is now at the forefront of what weseveral committee members resigning and me are trying to do at the club and we are workingtaking on the role of Club Captain so one of with our partners to try and get rugby back onthe most challenging aspects is managing the the curriculum in our 3 high schools. We havediffering views and opinions of how we take the some difficulty helping young players transitionclub forward. into the senior game and have lost a lot of players that moved up into secondary schoolThe most rewarding aspect is seeing how the last year because they were attending a schooldedication of a group of people is starting to outside our area which has rugby on theirpay off in our mini and midi section and that curriculum and links with one of our other localwe are now starting to compete with bigger clubs. The result of this is that we are strugglingclubs in the West of Scotland week in week to put out youth rugby teams regularly and thisout.” has had a knock on effect on the number of players moving up over the past few years.” For further information on playing rugby with Loch Lomond please contact either John, Stephen or Iain or visit or Website www.pitchero.com/clubs/lochlomond Progression Mini, midi and Junior Rugby: John 07802 698 841 “We've had several players over the years that Senior Rugby: Stephen 07595 521 825 have played at a higher but these have all been Club Enquiries: Iain 07738 379 344 whilst travelling, myself for example played first team for Melbourne Rugby Union in Australia Beechwood Pavillion, Beechwood, Bonhill, West Dunbartonshire G83 9LY. who are the pinnacle club in Melbourne and Victorian club rugby. To be honest we have often struggled to get our younger players noticed at district level ahead of the big Glasgow clubs regardless of talent but I hope this will change once we have teams regularly playing at all levels.” Challenges/Ambitions “Other than keeping our clubhouse open and the club financially stable our biggest challenge is to get rugby on the curriculum in the 3 local high schools. Once this happens we should have a regular stream of young players coming to the club which will in turn increase our membership and hopefully the number of people that volunteer to help with the running of the club. Our ambition is fairly simple in that we want to have teams playing regularly in leagues that are the right standard for a club of our size in all age groups. I think if we can achieve this and realise the huge potential for rugby in our area a lot of the small things will start to take care of themselves.” www.rugbyclub.biz 35

Cefn CoedCefn CoedCefn Coed is a club that plays a vital role work commitments this gives them the optionin their local community, particularly in to call players up with a limited amount ofrelation to the development of young disruption.players. They are based at Station Road As long as Cefn Coed are able to keep upin Merthyr Tydfil with their first team the good work that they have been doingcurrently competing in League 5 South developing young players they shouldCentral of the Swalec Leagues. They are be able to look forwards to a bright andled by the team of President Alan Bush successful future. Rugby Club Magazineand Chairman John Durbin and the club is wishes them the best of luck.looking to progress under their guidance. We have been providing quality industrial door servicesTheir first team put together a steady and expert repair and installation servicescampaign last time around which saw them to businesses and members of the publicfinish in a safe mid-table position in theleague. throughout North and South Wales for over 26 years.Their attentions will now have turned towards Proud supporters ofpreparing for the 2014-15 season and last Cefn Coed RFCyear’s record should provide them with agood platform from which to build. As long as 123, High Street, Cefn Coed CF48 2PN.they are able to retain their current group of Telephone: 07768095932/01685 374208.players and perhaps make one or two quality Email: [email protected] they should be able to push on upthe table. www.vcindustrialdoors.co.ukAs mentioned, a real standout feature of theCefn Coed set-up is the superb work thatthey do with youngsters in the area with anumber of team’s in place. This part of theclub looks to provide kids with an opportunityto develop their skills in a safe and enjoyableenvironment, helping them to reach their fullpotential.It is important for any club to be able toproduce their own talent if they are to besuccessful, particularly in the current financialclimate. Coaching staff over-seeing theyouth section are confident that they have anumber of players involved with the potentialto go on and represent their 1st XV.In order to help them to make the sometimesdifficult transition into senior level rugby theyalso have a reserve side. This allows them togive players experience of adult level rugbyeven if they are not yet considered ready forfirst team action and can be an importantstep in the development process.Another benefit of having more than oneteam is that it allows the 1st XV to benefitfrom far greater strength in depth. If they areever left short on numbers through injury or 36 ISSUE 46

CaithnessCaithnessCaithness RFC plays their home games at the Millbank Rugby Ground in Thurso and Wickand their first team competed in the Caledonia League Division 1 last season. They area club that plays a vital role in their local community with a successful first team and anumber of youth sides in place. Rugby Club Magazine caught up with the club’s ChairmanGeorge Sinclair to find out more about the good work that they have been doing on andoff the pitch.He told us, “I first became involved as a regular Murrayfield put in new posts last summer and ourspectator at games and in 2008 was asked to join secretary Shona Kirk won a competition to win the oldcommittee. I was then made Vice Chairman in May international posts which were installed at Millbank the2009 before becoming Chairman last May(2013). I day before our first competitive game of the season in August. Shona has put in a huge amount of work tonever played rugby, just a keen fan. bring together the funding and clubhouse project.Being a livestock farmer and married with a four year Chris Paterson, Scotland’s most capped player was inold son one of the biggest challenges for me is finding attendance, also doing some new coaching sessions.time for the role. It is certainly very rewarding and The building of our new clubhouse began in Augustsometimes demanding with so much happening at the and was in use by the end of January. It was openedclub in the last 12 months. by SRU vice president Ian Rankin on the weekend 9/11 May.The mood here is very positive with us gainingCoaching Scotland accreditation in April 2013.Number One for Bathrooms on a BudgetPlumbing &Heating Supplies William Wilson in Thurso are just the right people to help you with your bathroom project in these difficult economic times! WhetherTHURSO TOPrupabedlneict&o your project is a simple freshen up or a major refurbishment, Wil-Unit 8, Ormlie Industrial Estate. KW14 7QU liam Wilson have the products and experience to help.Tel: 01847 891685 • Fax: 01847 [email protected] When thinking about a redesign, the position of your current suite will have an impact on the cost of the project, as it will be muchBranches throughout Scotland cheaper for you to have your fixtures installed in the same positions as the old ones. In this way there is little need to drastically changewww.williamwilson.co.uk any of the plumbing within the room. Whilst a bath or a shower can be changed with relatively little ex- pense, you should try as far as possible to maintain the position of the toilet, as the soil stack pipe is a much more difficult installation to move. Older fittings can usually be replaced, and changing them will vastly improve the look of your pottery and sanitary ware. For instance, many toilets are compatible with a number of seats, and so you may be able to achieve the effect of updating an existing toilet by simply replacing the seat. A separate shower enclosure may be out of your budget, but a shower need not be. You can purchase a bath/shower mixer for your bath that will fit into the existing brassware holes, and allow you to effectively combine your bath and shower. Make sure to install a protective screen or shower curtain in order to prevent splashing on the floor. You may also need to check that you have sufficient water pressure to ensure a satisfactory showering experience. Seek advice from your local plumber. A range of innovative, superbly designed bathroom suites are available from William Wilson in Thurso. Contact Stevie Bruce on 01847 891685 or steven.bruce@williamwilson. co.uk or visit Unit 8, Ormlie Industrial Estate, Thurso. www.rugbyclub.biz 37

CAITHNESSLast season was successful with our first team winningthe Regional Shield, beating Dunfermline 28-6 afterextra time at Millbank on February 15. They then wona national semi-final beating Berwick 22-17 in front of arecord crowd of approximately 700.We took 300 supporters to Cumbernauld (550 mileround trip) for the National Shield Final but lost 27-6 toPreston Lodge.We have a number of talented players here and StevieCampbell our captain/openside flanker has just beenvoted Caledonia Div. 1 Player of the year.Caitlin Harvey (17) has played for the Scotland under20 girls team whilst Katie Mackay(U18) was pickedout by national selectors as one to watch at a sevenstournament at Kinross last weekend. In the past RowanShepherd won 20 caps for Scotland between 1995-98whilst Kris Hamilton had 5 caps for Scotland U20’s in2010.Lucy Millard also has 57 caps for Scotland womenYouth rugby is vital to the club. The nearest clubs are100 miles away or across water (Orkney). All bar oneof our first team squad are Caithness born, bred andcoached and very few players move into the area.We have a full time development officer and modernapprentice to bring rugby to the community and toprimary and secondary schools.We are very much a community club, being wellsupported by fans and sponsored by local businesses.Our clubhouse is being used for community eventsand activities e.g. boxercise and highland dancing. Aswell as this, girls’ rugby is growing quickly here. TheClubhouse is equipped with 4 changing rooms to beable to host girls’ rugby as well as boys.”Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish the club all thebest for the future. 38 ISSUE 46

WelwynWelwynWelwyn RFC plays their home games on Hobbs This should provide them with a good platform uponWay in Welwyn Garden City and currently which to build during the summer months as they lookcompetes in the London 3 North West Division. ahead towards next season.They are led by the team of President SeanWilliams and Chairman Mick Hills and the club is So long as they are able to retain their current grouplooking to progress under their guidance. of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions they should be in with a good chance ofThe club is committed to being an important part of pushing on up the table next time around.the local community and it is with this in mind that theylook to provide anyone wishing to play the game with a One of the standout features of the club is the superbwarm welcome regardless of their ability. youth section that they have in place. This part of the club looks to provide young players from the localThere is much to admire about the set-up that they area with an opportunity to play the game in a safehave in place off the field as well as they are in a strong and enjoyable environment whilst helping them toposition both administratively and financially. They have reach their full potential.a first class clubhouse and a very able coaching teamof Andy Riley and Jovan Masalunga whilst Peter Elliot It is important for any club to be able to produce theirdoes an excellent job of captaining the club. own talent, particularly in the current financial climate and this is an area that they appear to have covered.Last season the team put together a steady campaign,putting together a record of having won 10 and lost 10 It will certainly be exciting to watch to see how theirof their 20 matches. youngsters are able to progress over the coming years.This saw them finish in a safe mid-table position with45 points on the board. www.rugbyclub.biz 39

Welwyn ICE ICT are proud to sponsor Welwyn RFC because some of the Directors and the Staff have been involved in the rugby club forIn order to help their young players to almost 20 years as players or parents. We have found that Welwynprogress into the senior ranks they also RFC offers the community all the benefits that Rugby as a sporthave a number of additional sides up can give such as competition, family involvement and access to anand running. excellent social network. This is something that the ICE ICT culture aligns itself with.This allows them to give players Conor Byrne, one of the co-owners has played, coached, parentedexperience of adult level rugby even and even sung on occasion over the years. When ICE ICT wasif they are not yet considered ready established, it gave the company a chance to sponsor tours, shirtsfor first team action which can be an and most importantly the WiFi for the club.important step in the development For many years our staff rugby careers have benefited from clubprocess. sponsorship now we have the pleasure to be able to give back to help keep the club running for everyone’s benefit.Another benefit of having so many The ICE ICT team philosophy very much adheres to how a rugbysides is that it allows the first XV to team operates. Every department has a particular role all striving tobenefit from far greater strength in better themselves. But we can only succeed when we are playingdepth. from the same game plan. And most importantly we believe that our customers are an essential part of that team.If they are ever left short on numbers At the heart of our success is the commitment to deliver the highestthrough injury or work commitments quality service and continually improving what we do. We workthen they have the option of calling closely with our customers to identify their business goals, buildingplayers up with a limited amount of solutions to meet these needs.disruption. Within the company we need leaders to pull everyone togetherWelwyn is clearly a club that is doing reminding us all what we are trying to achieve and how eacha lot of things right both on and off the individual’s work is contributing to a common goal and sharing thefield and this should allow them to look success!forwards to a bright and successful We would like to take this opportunity to wish Welwyn all the best forfuture. Everyone at Rugby Club the coming seasons and in reading if any companies out there doMagazine would like to wish them the have the ability to sponsor local clubs a small effort makes a hugebest of luck. difference. To contact ICE ICT: Phone: +44 (0)203 3226911 Email: [email protected] Website: www.iceict.net MANAGED SERVICES CONSULTANCY CLOUD SERVICES GOVERNANCE ALM24/7 Fully managed services Professional Services Cloud connectivity PCI / ISO consultancy Application Lifecycle Management40 ISSUE 46

ALCHESTERALCHESTERCharlton Alchester Rugby Club was formed in 2008 byInstallation a group of like-minded people who wantedServices to see rugby played for the same reason. This group included players, coaches and Your administrators alike and so from this initial local idea came Alchester Rugby Club. electrician • All types of electrical works undertaken • Over 20 years experience • High standard of workmanship • A local service you can trust • All associated building works carried out MCS approved PV Solar Panel Installer For your free quotation call Keith Nash 01280 709830 - 07714 168471 The main ethos of the club is to play rugby for the enjoyment of the game, to promote and develop youngQuarter pagpelaady.inedrds 1in senior rugby, to re-introdu1c5e/03p/2l0a1y2e1r9s:2w4 ho have not played since school and to introduce those who have never played before. With this core policy our squad has approximately 90% of players under 24. Our coaches and administration team have many years’ experience of running rugby sides and can offer the development of players both on and off the pitch. Many of the current players are holding committee positions within the club which will allow them to understand the workings of a club as a whole and to ensure that the club is run for the benefit of every single member. By showing young players how the club is run and applying our ethos to all aspects it will maintain our policy for future years. Alchester have been very lucky to have gained several sponsors who have supported the club from the very beginning. The main sponsor is WILA who have been totally committed to supporting this young club both financially and morally. Mike and Claire are regularly seen on the touchline in all weathers following the exploits of the lads and have attended our end of season dinners to present the players with their awards. www.rugbyclub.biz 41

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ALCHESTERWithout support like this a new club would near Bicester under a long term lease agreementstruggle to get off the ground and by showing with the Village Playing Field Association. The playingthis community support to us it has encouraged facilities have been warmly received by visiting teamsAlchester to support local community charities with and officials and the pitch received praise from RFUtheir fund raising as well. Head Groundsman, Keith Kent, after his inspection. This will give Alchester the ability to build up supportAlthough early days in the history of Alchester and a good community relationship with their localRugby Club the strong feeling of friendship within area. This is being built up by running social events forthe club, the enjoyment of playing rugby within an village groups and fundraising for local charities.open and friendly environment and the ethos ofpromoting young players makes the future look It was always going to be difficult to maintain the earlybright for Oxfordshire’s youngest club. success and last season was a difficult one as we were in the relegation zone up until Christmas but theThrough the re-arrangement of the league continued hard work of new coach Garry Few andstructure by the RFU in 2009 and due to the good the commitment of the players saw us win five moreresults achieved in their first season of friendlies, games in the New Year which pushed us up to ninth inAlchester were placed in the Berks, Bucks and the league and maintain our level seven status.Oxon Premier League where they competed welland finished mid table in their first season which The mood in the club for next season is one of beliefjustified their inclusion at that level. that we can continue to build a strong community based club and with the recruitment of a few newIn the 2010/2011 season Alchester went on to win players continue to play good competitive rugby atpromotion as BBO Premier League Champions this level. Our second team will be maintained to offerand went into Southern Counties North, where players the option of playing social rugby as well asthey have remained competitive for the last two offering development to the first team.seasons. We realise that to continue to develop we need aAlchester also achieved success in their first two junior section and so this season saw us run our firstcompetitive seasons by winning the Southern summer camp for junior rugby players. This will beCounties Senior Vase, reached the quarter finals developed this year with the assistance of Oxfordshireof the RFU Senior Vase and lifted the OxfordshireShield at Iffley Road.Another great success has been the setting upof Alchester second team (Centurions). It is astrongly held belief within the club that a strongsenior side cannot survive without a developmentteam so to get this up and running so early in ourexistence is a major achievement for all involvedboth on and off the field.The club has continued to develop and have nowmoved from Oxford to their own ground in Fritwell,78 East Street, Fritwell, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX27 7QF Telephone (01869) 345516 Mobile 07976 533357 Email - [email protected] www.rugbyclub.biz 43

AlchesterCommunity Coach, Gary Morris, so thatwe can hold more rugby camps andthen set up our own junior section in2015.The next year will be a busy one whilewe go into schools and build linkswith young players but the Alchestercommittee have never been afraid ofgetting things done since their originalset up only six years ago.Club Chairman, Chris Kimber, hasalways maintained that this is theplayers club and that the committeewill only guide it to their wishes. Withthis ethos and the strength of belief ofthe main core of players then AlchesterRugby Club will only flourish.Article provided by Club Secretary KeithNash - Images courtesy of Fiona Liddell. 44 ISSUE 46

ROMSEYROMSEYFirst established in 1930, Romsey Rugby Club plays their home games at the Romsey Sports Centre onLower Southampton Road in Hampshire and currently compete in the Hampshire 1 League. They are led bythe team of Chairman Andy Hancock and President Eric Bailey and are looking to progress under their guid-ance.Their first team did not perhaps enjoy the season that they would have liked this time around, putting together arecord of having won 6 and lost 16 of their 22 matches. This saw them finish in the bottom half of the table with34 points on the board.The team did produce some promising displays AFTERMARKET DOORSand if they can improve their consistency next PANELS AND GRILLSyear they should be able to climb the table.Adding one or two quality, experienced players FOR TRANSPORT REFRIGERATION UNITSwould also help the team’s players to develop with hinges and latches.and give them a better chance of winning tightfixtures. Large range of qualityOne of the standout features of the club set up is replacementthe strong work that they do in regards to devel- doors, panelsoping young players as they have a thriving mini and grills availablesections. This section looks to provide young from stock.players with an opportunity to play the game in asafe and enjoyable environment.It is important for any side to be able to producetheir own talent if they want to be successful,particularly in the current financial climate. It willcertainly be exciting to watch to see how theiryoungsters are able to develop over the comingyears.Romsey is a club that is committed to providingas many players from their local community aspossible with an opportunity to play the game.This is reflected by the fact that they currentlyhave a 2nd XV running, allowing them to give farmore players a game every weekend.A major benefit of having more than one sideis that it allows the 1st XV to benefit from fargreater strength in depth. If they are ever leftshort on numbers through injury or suspensionthen they have the option of calling players upwith a limited amount of disruption.Although Romsey did not perhaps enjoy theseason that they would have liked, this shouldnot take away from the good work that theyhave been doing. Hopefully they will be able tocontinue in the same manner for many years tocome and Rugby Club Magazine would like towish them the best of luck. www.rugbyclub.biz 45

AEROTBPHLoAEdNBmERICiTOInSMHPANYBodmin Given the progress that the club has been making they should be in with a great chance of achieving their goals and it will be exciting to see how they get along.Based at Clifden Park in Cornwall,Bodmin RFC is a great example of a wellrun, community establishment who aremaking progress both on and off the fieldof play.Rugby Club Magazine caught up with theclub’s Chairman Dave Saunter to find outmore about the good work that the clubhas been doing. Laminate • Wood • Rugs • Carpet • Vinyl Crown Carpets, who have been providing floorcover- Luxury Vinyl Tiles • Carpet Tiles ings to the South West for 40 years, and Managing Director Steve Blacklaw, former back row player with Accessories • Commercial Flooring the club are pleased to support Bodmin RFC. Proud sponsors of Bodmin RFC Our customers include the Eden Project, Cornwall Council, Devon and Cornwall Housing, Ocean Fish St Austell Road, Par, Cornwall PL24 2EE. and Fowey Harbour Commissioners. On the commer- Tel: 01726 813897. cial front we also install flooring to education, health- care, hospitality and catering establishments. Email: [email protected] www.crown-carpets.com So whether you require carpet, vinyls, wood(solid and engineered), laminate, carpet tiles, luxury vinyl tiles,4466 IISSSSUUEE4466 safety flooring or entrance matting for your home or business then Crown Carpets is happy to provide a the right solution for your flooring requirements. Our Special Events team also manufacture Red Car- pet runners for that special occasion. Please contact the showroom on 01726 813897 or e-mail [email protected] for more informa- tion. Crown Carpets congratulate Bodmin RFC on their promotion to the Devon and Cornwall League and wish them all the best for the upcoming season.

BodminHe said, “I have been at the club since 1983, Our hard working committee spent all lastwhen I moved to Bodmin from Launceston summer doing up our function room whichdue to work. I have played at the club for 30 is now rented out as a venue at least once aseasons and close to 1000 games. month which keeps us going.I am now in my second year as chairman. The biggest challenge we face as a club isWe are a small club with 2 senior sides and keeping players interested once they havethis season will have a colts side and under finished colts, although this is a sport issue and12s as well. does not only apply to us.The most challenging part of the role isgetting people involved off the pitch. We would like to consolidate in D/C for a couple of seasons and then push for promotionWe have a good number of players but lack to Western Counties.the support of the town in moving the clubforward. The mood at the club is great we Given the progress that the club has beenwere promoted in to the Devon/Cornwall making they should be in with a great chanceleague and are looking forward to playing at of achieving their goals and it will be exciting tothis level for the first time in our history. see how they get along. Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish themYouth rugby is also very important to the club the best of luck.and we currently have 12 players in the firstteam squad who have come up through the wwwwww..rruuggbbyycclluubb..bbiizz 4477ranks.We try to get the colts training with seniors inthe second part of their colts years and alsoplay 2nd team matches when the colts do nothave a game.Andrew Coad is now on his way to NewportGwent Dragons academy which is greatnews.Others have gone on to play at University,but Andrew is our first break through player.We are definitely a community club; we havea woman’s running club based here and arehappy to host any other sporting club if theywish to use our facilities.

WARMINSTERWARMINSTERWarminster RFC plays their home games on Folly Lane in Wilts and their first teamcurrently competes in the Dorset & Wilts 1 South League. They are led by the team ofChairman Glenn Marden and President Chris Bell and are looking to progress under theirguidance.Their first team enjoyed a strong campaign last time We are a family run business supplyingaround as they managed to put together a record of used quality cars and vans for ahaving won 13 and lost 9 of their 22 matches. This saw wide range of uses.them finish in the top half of the table with 59 points onthe board. What SKC Motors can provide for you.This should provide them with a good platform upon All cars sold come with full MOT,which to build as they look ahead towards the 2014- serviced, HPI check, warranty,15 season. As long as they are able to retain their and a valet before collection.current group of players and perhaps make one or twoquality additions they should be in with a good chance MOT collect and return.of mounting a title challenge. Warminster is not a clubthat focuses solely upon their senior section however We offer Servicing contracts & servicing foras they also have a thriving youth set-up. This part of all makes and models at competitive rates.the club looks to provide young players from the localarea with an opportunity to play the game in a safe and Please phone for details:enjoyable environment whilst helping them to reachtheir full potential. 01985 846677 5-6 Fore Street, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 8DD.It is important for any team to be able to produce their www.skcmotors.comown talent, particularly in the current financial climateand this is an area that Warminster appears to have SKC Motors has been going since 2009covered. It will certainly be exciting to watch to see how when I started my own business in thetheir youngsters are able to develop over the coming motor industry. We sell first time buyersyears. cars up to 7 seaters. We have over 30 vehicles in stock at all times, plus we alsoIn order to help their younger players to successfully sell vans caddy to transit.make the sometimes difficult transition into senior level I have supported and played for Warminsterrugby they also have a reserve team in place. This Rugby Club since was a boy I am now 45allows them to give them experience of the adult game years young.even if they are not yet considered ready for first teamaction.Another benefit of having a second team is that itallows the first XV to benefit from far greater strengthin depth. If they are ever left short on numbers throughinjury or suspension then they have the option ofcalling players up with a limited amount of disruption.Warminster RFC is a great example of what can beachieved when a club is well run and their Committeedeserve a tremendous amount of credit for this.Hopefully they will be able to continue in the samemanner for many years to come and Rugby ClubMagazine wishes them the best of luck. 48 ISSUE 46

EAST HULL EAST HULL East Hull ARLFC plays their home games at the Rosmead Sports Centre in Hull and their first team competed in the National Conference Premier League in 2013. Their colours are blue and white for home games and red and white for their away fixtures. They are club that stands out for doing some outstanding work in their local community, particularly with regards to helping young players to learn the game. It was with this mind that Rugby Club Magazine spoke to their Chairman Les Shaw to find out more. He started by telling us a bit about his involvement with the club, saying, “It’s a 24/7 job but I love it because it’s giving something to the kids and that’s what it’s all about. The original chairman has moved to being President now (Ray Butler) and he’s been here for about 20 years. Without him we wouldn’t have a youth set up. He started the youth off and he’s done a fantastic job for the club so we were delighted when he agreed to stay on as President.” Les went on to tell us about the club’s community approach. “We’re an important part of the local community and we want to give these kids something that their parents can be proud of as doing this is something that I’m proud of. We never turn any kid away regardless of their background. It’s a voluntary system and we’re there for the community. The local council has been fantastic backing these children as well; we had a problem with the lights being vandalised but the council helped us put them right and they’ve been brilliant since then – touch wood!” The club’s record of working with young players is reflected by the large number of cups www.rugbyclub.biz 49

SOMERTON The club’s record of work- ing with young players is re-they have won at this level. flected by the large number of cups they have won at thisThey have also achieved aconsiderable amount of success level.at senior level. Some of their mostnotable triumphs in recent times in the bottom half of the table.include winning the Yorkshire Cup There were some positives to bein 2002/03 and the National Cup in taken however and with the superb2007/08. Their current group of players youth section that they have in placewill be keen to add to the team’s they should still be able to lookhistory over the coming years. forwards to a bright and successful future.Last season it would be fair to say thattheir first team did not perhaps enjoy There is much to admire about thethe campaign that they would have good work that East Hull have beenliked as they finished with a record of doing in recent times and this ishaving won 9, drawn 1 and lost 16 of thanks to all of the hard work thattheir 26 matches. This saw them finish their Committee has been putting into the club. Hopefully they will be able to continue in the same manner for many years to come and everyone at Rugby Club Magazine would like to wish them the best of luck.50 ISSUE 46