Huntingdon & District Rugby

Dear Members,

I hope you are all managing to cope in this extraordinary times and that you, your family and friends are in good health. As I’m typing this before a 6pm video link Committee meeting I can’t help but think ‘I should have bought shares in Zoom.’

The season ended prematurely, but fortunately just prior to lock down the U15’s achieved a magnificent win against Shelford RFC to secure their third consecutive County Cup Final victory. The 1^st XV finished mid table in the league and have set a good foundation to challenge for promotion next year. Across the board the Colts, Minis and Juniors were having a strong season.

On the finance front, the cancellation of matches, our key social events, Farmers Lunch, Summer Ball and Beer Festival has hit the club quite hard. We are in negotiation with the Race Course regarding a rent rebate and through some sound fiscal planning by the Treasurer a strong Sportsman’s Dinner, prompt payment of membership across the club and increased Bar revenue, we are in a better position than some. As and when things return to normal, we will be looking to organise a number of Social events to put us on an even keel and look forward to seeing you all at them.  We are hopeful that the first of theses will be the rescheduled Beer Festival on the opening weekend of the season.  More on this when the fixtures for the new season are released.

We are in receipt of regular RFU updates and sensibly any action they take will be in line with the Government advice. In turn we will be guided by the RFU as to when and at what level the Club can open and start Rugby activities.

In this unique time, it does make you realise what we sometimes take for granted. My playing days are long behind me, but I can remember the frustration I felt at missing one game or one training session. Your time playing sport is short and especially so in a contact sport like Rugby. When playing and training resumes, I look forward to seeing all players, from 6 to 50, at the Club making the most of the precious opportunity they have. With the old duffers like me making the most of watching the games whilst sharing a beer with the past generations.

Lastly a big thankyou to all the key workers who are associated with the Club and the work they are doing. We have lots of mums, dads, players, coaches and other members who are Doctors, Nurses, Police Officers, Paramedics, Carers and Prison Officers doing a great job in unprecedented circumstances.

Stay safe.

Nick

Chairman HRUFC