Rugby Club ISSUE 86 | Page 55

Marlborough Development “We now have a sevens side, Marlborough Compeed 7s who are qualified to play in the Supersevens series and they have already been invited to play in Colorado (Rugby Town). There is also an Academy side which if the players are good enough can transfer over to the Supersevens side. Some of our first and second team players are involved as well as some seasoned sevens players. The social side has also improved with the senior players and their families staying for longer after the games, having a drink and a laugh. The different age groups are also organising their own events so that the whole family can have some fun together – especially those parents who walk the side-lines week in and out, in all weathers, who need a little reward. The 1871 Club has also increased their numbers, many of the members have been former players, committee members and so forth. They are a social group who meet up regularly, have talks, visits, meals and plenty of beer. They raise money for the Club, last year they got the Club a defibrillator. They also like to come and support the boys, even on some of the away games.” 2019/20 “One of the main aims for the coming season is for the first team to be promoted and to become established within level 5. As well as attracting new players and possibly setting up a third team which would probably be more of a social side. Within the mini/junior section we aim to attract 300 members, as we will be missing only one age group rather than two. The last couple of seasons we have had around 250. We also plan to have our first girls’ team and are working on improving the facilities and environment for players, officials and supporters.” Youth “Youth rugby is pivotal to the success of the Club and is therefore subject to considerable focus. We are blessed with marvellous volunteers - in coaching and administration - across all age-groups who understand their requirement to encourage and nurture participation at all levels. We have dedicated Chairs for Minis, Junior and Colts rugby who each have both a specific focus on their age groups and a wider understanding of the Club’s overarching vision and aims. The Club is constantly attracting young talent and has an outreach programme with local schools where coaching and officiating experience is provided to promote rugby. We are a family Club, and everyone is welcome to be part of the Club, from players from U6s to the Senior sides if they wish to play, if not, we welcome any age.” “I have been involved with the club since 2004, as a player and a sponsor of Marlborough RFC. I played centre for the club for a good few seasons, stopping in 2010/2011 due to a serious injury in November. I played at various clubs throughout my time playing, including a year abroad in Madrid. I still keep up with how the teams are doing and would like to say a massive congratulations on this season and best of luck going into the 2019/2020 campaign.” Mike Hill www.rugbyclubmag.com 55