As we prepare to embark on another rugby season, it’s hard to believe how quickly time has passed since our final games last season. I hope everyone has been enjoying the lovely summer we’ve had, and have managed to get a break.

Pre-season has gone well, and we’ve seen good numbers on several occasions. It would be great to see a few more faces, though I understand that summer holidays have impacted attendance.

Our pre-season activities kicked off with some fantastic touch rugby, which saw participation from both senior men and women, as well as our youth and Mini teams. Following the games, we enjoyed a BBQ and drinks, fostering camaraderie among all sectors of the club.

The senior men’s team had their first friendly match last Thursday against Woodford at their ground. It was a competitive game, ultimately won by the better side. While I was unable to attend, the feedback I received was largely positive, and I’m was told some good rugby was played.

On the development front, things are progressing well. We anticipate completing the land sale with WT Homes on September 6, after which time we can invoice them for the sale of the land.

Spadeoak, the contractor awarded the tender for our new AWP 1st team pitch, are making significant progress. They have stripped back all the topsoil, installed drainage and kerbs, and laid a deep layer of Type 1 material. They are currently leveling this layer in preparation for the tarmac.

In the coming weeks, we should start to see the pitch take shape. After that, we will level the topsoil removed from the first team pitch onto the 2nd and 3rd team pitches and get them seeded.

That’s all for now. I will send more pictures and provide another report as we continue to make progress.

Kind regards,
Simon

Click here to view photos/videos of the developments so far.