As we approach Christmas and then the New Year, I thought on behalf of the Committee I would give you an update on where we are as a club and what we can expect going forward as we continue to navigate through these extraordinary and difficult times.
On the Senior playing front things are progressing well, with good numbers at training, Reggie and Tom are developing a great team ethic. The improvements have transferred to the pitch, with the club sitting 5th in the table with 6 wins and 5 losses. Second Team skipper Matt Murphy has been doing a great job putting a team together, but too many occasions the opposition have failed to raise a team. We will be working hard in the new year to ensure all those that want a game will be able to play.
The focus on youth and objective to ‘integrate juniors into seniors’ is looking good, with 11 of the squad against Bedford Queens last Saturday having been developed in the Stags Youth Section.
The Minis and Juniors are performing extremely well from U6’s (Great to see the Treasurer Kevin back in his tracksuit) through to Colts. I am always taken aback by the dedication of parents and coaches and the time you commit to ensuring kids get to play rugby.
We have appointed Barry Turner-Flynn, a very experienced Coach as Director of Junior Coaching. Barry is keen to develop processes that support Coaches and players as they move through the age groups. He has already been assisting senior coaching and the U16’s. A fruitful first Junior Coaches meeting was a promising start and I look forward to seeing how things develop.
The purchasing and distribution of kit is being transformed by Vice Chair Matt Griggs, as we move towards an effective on-line shop capability, although supply has at times been a little problematic. In the meantime I would like to thank Matt and his helpers for all their efforts, ordering, bagging and distributing kit.
With regards house and grounds the pitches and posts look fantastic. Sam Pashley has done a cracking job with the grass, and the racecourse have helped out with use of their machinery and copious amounts of fertiliser.
Refurbishment of the club house has been delayed until January 2022. We have been in constant communication with the racecourse management, and I am assured the delays have been out of their control. I ask you to be patient and look forward to an improved facility in February. We have however invested in new lights within the clubhouse, and those who train midweek will I’m sure have welcomed the spotlights installed above the containers outside.
As to be expected Covid has hit social events at the club, and as a result, income generation. A successful pre match lunch with 80 attendees, was I hope the start of things to come, and we can entice a broader spectrum of the membership to engage. Thank you all for prompt payment of membership, which is the financial life blood of the club. Kevin ensures we keep a tight ship where the budget is concerned. To this end, Ali Savage has joined the Committee as Sponsorship lead, if anyone would like to sponsor the club or knows someone who would please contact Ali.
On behalf of the committee can I wish you and your families a safe, peaceful and merry Christmas, all the best for 2022 and that we look forward to welcoming you back to your club in early January or indeed whenever that may be.
Nick Wilcox
Chairman
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