Hi Everybody
I hope you and your families are all well. I would like to take this opportunity to update you on the Club’s position following the latest period of lockdown and the subsequent move to Tier 2 restrictions.
The RFU has declared that we can now move to level E in the return to Rugby Road Map. This basically means that we can increase the intensity of training towards full contact. They have also declared that we can play an adopted variation of the game internally and between neighbouring clubs. The increased training aspect is good news because the club and coaching staff can control the people, the contact and the environment, taking all precautions to keep our members safe. Unfortunately I cannot endorse the playing of games against neighbouring opponents because there are too many uncontrollable variables and logistically it is not feasible. This applies at senior and mini / junior level. The risk analysis and risk verses benefit does not support the playing of games at this time.
The first scheduled senior fixture is the 23 January 2021 which is the current focus point subject to legislative and governance changes. The situation will be under constant review for all age groups as hopefully the world changes for the better and we can once again return to the enjoyment of playing the game.
Tier 2 restrictions has seriously affected the use of the clubhouse as we cannot open the bar or have people meeting internally (except for volunteer work on occasions) as we are not a restaurant providing table served meals. However it is my intention that on Thursday 17 December 2020 I will make the clubhouse available for a bring your own drinks and a basic meal from an outside caterer, to be provided at a nominal cost. This to facilitate those senior members and those who would benefit from a socially distanced form of interaction to improve their mental wellbeing. As brilliantly portrayed in Tom Cleary’s and Connor Fleming’s charitable efforts recently, the need to look after each other has never been more prevalent, One Club – Our Club. I wish it could be a total open invitation but unfortunately we are restricted to 30 members. Should you wish to attend please contact me directly.
Let’s finish on a positive note and a positive look forward. Currently at the club:
- The senior players are refurbishing the home changing rooms to reflect our branding and improving space for all.
- Floodlight repair and maintenance is near completion, there will be light at the end of the tunnel.
- Our minis & juniors are back training and I must commend the coaching staff for their inventive application of training methods whilst maintaining child safety. Great effort everybody.
- Club branding and kit availability has moved into top gear with our own club captain being the club “pin up face” who could grace any catwalk.
- The club is currently financially secure and the committee is working relentlessly to maintain the fabric of the club and drive us beyond the pandemic.
I think the political, social and sporting landscape will change massively over the next 3 months so it is vitally important we respond accordingly in a safe and timely manner.
I know some of you may disagree with some of the sentiments above. I would gladly chat to discuss so please feel free to call me.
It leaves only to thank you one and all for your continuing support and I hope, with a vaccination just around the corner, that you may have a more peaceful Christmas. Please stay well and remember we are here for each other which has always been the rugby way. Merry Christmas and I will see you all in the New Year.
Adey Mitchell
Chairman.
