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MATCHDAY PROGRAMME
MATCH OFFICIALS:
NIKKI O'DONNELL (REF), REBECCA REES (AR) & SIMON O'NEIL (AR)
BILLINGHAM RUFC
- Adam Brown
- Ed Graham
- Dan Dixon
- Liam Armstrong
- Matty White
- Dan Burns
- Tom Campbell
- Anth Jackson
- Jamie Lane
- Peter Evans
- Joe Ross
- Luke Wilson
- Louie Groark
- Joe Scarborough
- Elliott Husband (c)
- Ewan Lydiatt
- James Watson
- Ben Walton
- Joe Evans
- Jonny Horner
CHESTER RUFC
- Josh Woods
- Jonny Hanson
- Tom Clarke
- Seb Pemberton
- Chris Deehan
- Harry Graham
- Harry Roberts
- Dave Jones
- Harry Craven (c)
- Morgan Bagshaw
- Ben Ivory
- Tommy Scott
- Andrew Mcminimee
- Will Tomlinson
- Sam Earl-jones
- Scott Robson
- Matt Harrop
- James Hampson
- Tommy Ellis
- Rhys Hamilton
Welcome to our Match Day Sponsor…
Thank You to Stranton Energy
We’re proud to have Stranton Energy as today’s match sponsor, continuing their fantastic support for Billingham Rugby Club.
With nearly a decade of experience in the renewable energy sector, Stranton Energy is a trusted name in delivering sustainable solutions across both domestic and commercial markets. Their expert team—including certified heating engineers, electricians, and gas engineers—provides turnkey energy solutions, covering everything from project management and design to installation, commissioning, and after-sales support.
Stranton Energy has built strong partnerships both in the UK and internationally, ensuring they bring the best renewable energy products and services to the UK market. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and high-quality service is at the heart of everything they do.
A huge thank you to Stranton Energy for their continued support—enjoy the game!
Thank You for Supporting Billingham Rugby Club
At Billingham Rugby Club, we thrive because of the incredible support from our community - whether you’re cheering from the sidelines, backing the team as a sponsor, or contributing in any way. Your involvement plays a huge role in keeping the club moving forward.
Every match day, every sponsorship, and every act of support helps drive vital funds that ensure our continued growth and development. It allows us to invest in our facilities, nurture the next generation of players, and keep the club at the heart of the community.
A huge thank you to everyone who plays their part—your support makes all the difference. Let’s continue building something special together!
SOUTH EAST ELEVATION
NORTH EAST ELEVATION
TABLE, FIXTURES & RESULTS
Club President & Chairman's Welcome
JOHN KER
CLUB PRESIDENT
Well, that's the first hundred years out of the way; onwards and upwards into the next hundred.
I wonder what Billingham Rugby Club will be like in 2124? Will our wonderful game have changed?
Anyway, in welcoming our visitors this afternoon, whether you are a player, committee representative or loyal fan, we shall endeavour to treat you well, both on and off the pitch, whatever the ultimate result. First of all I would like to apprise you of a few facts.
Our rugby club was founded by the Synthetic and Nitrates Company which eventually became ICI. Originally we were the rugby section of the Synthonia Sports Club and for many years simply regarded as the 'factory' team. Although the date of our inauguration is 1924, during the autumn of 1923 players were
"recruited, training started and coaching started in earnest."
The very first game was against West Hartlepool Secondary School Old Boys when Billingham Synthonia Rugby Football Club
won by 8 points to 6. Our very first players' dinner was held in April 1928 and the following year saw us achieve Senior Club status.
However…
" … The pavilion was a wooden hut and tin basins with cold water did service in place of showers."
We have come on a bit since those days and since 2000 we have opened the new clubhouse on the new ground here at Greenwood Road, courtesy of Lottery funding. Then in August 2017 we added the Artificial Grass Pitch, thanks to RFU and last year extended both our balcony and upstairs room as well as changing over the kitchen and the snug
Annually I put into print my appreciation and thanks to the strong leadership of our hardworking Executive Committee and of course to our very many volunteers without whom we would struggle. I realise that most sports clubs rely heavily on voluntary help but I do believe that our various groups are a match for any club in the country. I feel also, that it is important to acknowledge the many parents who bring their children to join the minis then stay involved to become coaches, team managers, fund raisers and even - referees.
It's difficult in a one-off piece which remains in the programme for the whole season to react to weekly events but the contributions from Chairman, Mark Armstrong, and Director of Rugby, Peter Evans, do change game by game. So a special thanks to both.
In conclusion, after our first season of national rugby we hung on to fight another day - well a second season and this time we know exactly what to expect. Going forward we hope to establish ourselves permanently in National 2 North.
Enjoy the game.
MARK ARMSTRONG
CLUB CHAIRMAN
I am confident that the season 2024-25 will be as intriguing, potentially as frustrating but hopefully as exciting as the last.
We could not have asked for a better season than the last for our centenary year. Achieving National League status for the first time in our history and in our Centenary season too, was more than we could have dreamt for. However, it is something we planned for, and dreams become a reality when you have the commitment and buy-in of a whole club and a whole community.
We knew last year was going to be a tough year and it proved to be so, but our final match of the season against Rotherham, will go down in history as one of the best games of all time for Billingham RUFC.
Okay, some might say we survived by the skin of our teeth, but I would argue we survived out of pure grit and determination and we showed our true colours during the last few weeks of the season and we showed why ‘Our Spirit is our Strength’ is just not just a saying, it’s a belief!
But this is not just a player or a club mentality, it is becoming a community belief too. We had over 1,000 people attend the Rotherham game to see a truly spirited performance from our team, and the celebration at the end went on into the night.
As we close out our Centenary year and start our 101st season as a Rugby Club, we start with the same excitement, the same belief and with the same ethos. Our goal is to be the leading Professional Amateur club in the country and if you look around you, we can walk the walk with many professional clubs despite being 100% amateur. I truly believe that this is the bedrock of our success over the last 25 years.
Whilst many clubs have dallied with paying players and been seduced by the riches that professional rugby has to offer, we have stayed true to our values, and we have built an open and welcoming club that is also a fortress. I don’t mean Greenwood Road, I mean Billingham Rugby Club and I mean OSIOS.
It is this steadfast belief that we can achieve the impossible if we stand together as one club united in the believe that rugby, at every level and every age group will be the winner without paying players that has helped us to build a strong playing membership and attracted young, talented local players who want to perform at a higher level.
It was great to see the Chris Hyndman and Craig Willis at our Centenary dinner, former and current professionals alongside Amelia Hyndman, our newest professional player. If we can provide a club that plays at the highest level we can, currently National League, and also creates a platform for local boys and girls to go on to play at an even higher level, then we can be proud and rugby and Billingham RUFC will be the winner, and for the long term.
We currently boast 14 age grade teams including 3 girls teams as well as 4 senior teams and have approx. 400 registered playing members. Our weekends are busy, but our mid-week training sessions equally so and this is why we exist and this is what makes us who we are.
We are committed to improve everything about our club that is rugby related. I am committed to ensure this club has the best facilities, provides the best experience, on and off the field and working with Peter and Danny, ensure that our rugby is entertaining and underpins that experience across the club.
As I said last year, it was John F Kennedy that gave the famous speech in Berlin in 1963, and said that “2,000 years ago the proudest boast was to say you were a citizen of Rome”, and went on to say, “that today the proudest boast is ‘ich bin ein Berliner”. Today I say to you, the proudest boast is to say, “I am a member of Billingham Rugby Club”.
#OSIOS
Director of Rugby Performance Update
PETER EVANS
DIRECTOR OF RUGBY PERFORMANCE
Our penultimate home game of the 24/25 season is here and again it’s a must win.
Chester have had a fine season and will come full of confidence after giving us a pasting in the 2nd half in our first meeting.
We can expect a mobile and physical team who, like us, have the ability to play a loose brand of rugby. Nothing changes for us. It is another cup final against a top team. If anything the last couple of games have shown me what it means for certain people to play for this club. Our recent wins have come off the back of a never-say-die attitude and full buy in for the game day plan.
We are up against it and we always have been, but I am so proud.
The Lions head up to Blaydon with a much changed squad again. We have youngsters again leading the charge joined by some 3rd team boys stepping up.
The 1 and 2s have a well deserved week off coming up and we plan to recharge after our monster 10 game run. Then we have the home stretch and some cup semi finals for our 2, 3 and Colts sides.
Please make every effort to support the lads in these last 2 games. It makes that little difference which impacts our performance.
FIRST XV SHIRT SPONSORS
We can't thank these and all our other sponsors enough for their continued support throughout the season.
NEWS & EVENTS
Inspiring The Next Generation
Today’s game is not just about the action on the pitch—it’s also an opportunity to celebrate the growing presence of women in refereeing as we welcome Nikki O’Donnell as our referee, supported by assistant referees Rebecca Rees and Simon O’Neil.
Nikki is one of the most accomplished RFU referees, having officiated in the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Cup, Allianz Premier 15s, and Women’s Six Nations. A true trailblazer in the game, her experience at the highest level continues to break barriers and inspire the next generation of female officials.
Joining her is Rebecca Rees, a promising referee from Northumberland, who has been making great strides in officiating across key domestic competitions. Her commitment to the game is helping to shape the future of refereeing, and her presence today is another fantastic example of the pathways available for women in the sport.
Alongside them, Simon O’Neil will also be assisting in today’s game, completing a strong officiating team ensuring a well-managed and competitive match.
Having Nikki and Rebecca at Greenwood Road is a great opportunity for the women and girls in attendance to see first-hand the impact that female officials are having in rugby. Whether as players, coaches, or referees, the message is clear—the game is for everyone.
We’re proud to have Nikki, Rebecca, and Simon officiating today’s fixture.
Welcome to Billingham Rugby Club!
Injured Players Benevolent Fund
Striving to be the Best Professional Amateur Club.
Billingham Rugby Club Launches Injured Players Benevolent Fund
Billingham Rugby Club Launches Injured Players Benevolent Fund
After much discussion, Billingham Rugby Club is pleased to announce the launch of the Injured Players Benevolent Fund. This new initiative is designed to support players who are injured, providing assistance to those who need it most.
How will the fund build?
Starting on March 22, 2025, the club will introduce a change to its plastic glasses refund policy. Instead of offering refunds, £1 from the cost of the first glass will be donated to the Injured Players Benevolent Fund. Refills will remain free (drink charge still applicable), and customers can still return their cups as usual. This is just the first of several initiatives aimed at raising funds for the cause.
The club is excited to launch this initiative and thanks you for your continued support in helping us assist injured players.
St. Patrick’s Day (+5) at Billingham RFC –
Guinness Now on Draught too! 🍀
The countdown is on! After todays big clash against Chester RUFC, we’re keeping the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations alive at Billingham RFC!
Join us for a festive Irish-themed evening, filled with great company, a cracking atmosphere, and—now on draught at the club—pints of the black stuff! ☘️🍻
Whether we’re celebrating a win or just enjoying the night, make sure to stick around, grab a freshly poured Guinness, and keep the St. Paddy’s spirit going.
See you at the club!
Why not join our ladies touch rugby fitness sessions?
Using the basics of rugby to help improve fitness levels without the contact element of the sport. A great fun way to aide fitness and make new friends.
They’re currently running at 6pm on Friday's at the club, usually pitch based but sometimes in the gym.
Book your Match Day Table now and make your game day one to remember!
Experience match day in style by booking a Match Day Table at Billingham Rugby Club!
For just £250, gather a group of 10 and enjoy exclusive pre-game hospitality from 12.30 to 17.30.
Your package includes entry to the match, a hearty hot meal before kick-off, and a bottle of port with a cheeseboard to savour afterwards. Plus, our table service ensures you can sit back, relax, and soak in the atmosphere.
Sunday Lunches at the Club
Our Sunday Lunches are a culinary delight that combines mouthwatering flavours with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Indulge in a scrumptious feast featuring a variety of delicious dishes, from succulent roasts to fresh seasonal vegetables, all prepared to perfection.
To ensure we have a table waiting for you, pre-booking is advised. Gather your friends and family, and make your reservation today to savor the best Sunday Lunch in town at Billingham Rugby Club.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to enjoy a relaxing and delicious meal with your loved ones.
WERE HIRING!
Hospitality Staff
Role includes: Table service, Bar service (full description upon interview). 18+.
Please email CV to matthewpinkney1@hotmail.co.uk
#OSIOS
Looking for the perfect venue to host your wedding reception, private party, or corporate event?
Billingham Rugby Club’s recently refurbished clubhouse is the ideal choice for any special occasion, offering a versatile, stylish, and welcoming space for all types of events.
Our modernised clubhouse is now open for bookings throughout 2025. Whether you’re planning a wedding celebration, an intimate family gathering, a milestone birthday party, or a professional corporate event, our venue can accommodate it all. With a spacious function room, a fully stocked bar, and tailored catering options, we ensure every detail is covered, making your event stress-free and memorable.
The clubhouse’s recent refurbishments have transformed it into a contemporary space, perfect for creating lasting memories. Our experienced team is committed to working closely with you to customise the venue according to your vision, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
With flexible layouts, ample parking, and a warm atmosphere, Billingham Rugby Club’s clubhouse is a top choice for hosting events in the area. We invite you to contact us today to secure your preferred date for 2025.
Let us help you make your next event truly special!
Billingham RUFC Achieves 5-Star Safety Accreditation
Billingham RUFC is proud to have once again been awarded a 5-star safety accreditation, reinforcing our commitment to providing the safest possible environment for players, supporters, and visitors alike.
We continue to prioritise the highest safety standards, ensuring that everyone who steps through our doors can enjoy their time at the club with confidence. Our dedication to safety is backed by SAVI (Security and Vulnerability Initiative) – find out more about their work here.
SUPPORT WHERE IT MATTERS
One of the initiatives I have been especially proud of over the last 10 years, is our support of local charities.
We have put our chosen charities up front and centre in our fundraising and promoted them on our 1st XV away shirts as evidenced by the shirts hanging on the back wall in the main room of the club. You will see Daisy Chain, a local Autism Respite charity in Norton, BCT Aspire, a local Billingham Foundation for young adults run by our very own Paul Burgum and of course Prostate Cancer. Local does not always mean locally based but can mean personal too us.
Charities are very personal choices, and many people support charities due to personal reasons and Prostate Cancer is a great example of that as I know there have been sufferers amongst our club members and bringing awareness to this cancer was our objective. In addition we continue to support the Poppy Appeal.
I am delighted to confirm that our charity for this and next season is the Alzheimer’s Society.
Again, whilst the Alzheimer’s Society is a national charity, it is one that is personal to us.
We recently lost a life long member in Bob Bell and cardio-vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s were the cause of his rapid deterioration. My mother has Alzheimer’s and to see the light and spark of recognition go out from within someone you have known and loved all of your life is a heartbreaking experience. There are new drugs coming to the market and two have recently been approved for use in the UK, but sadly not by the NHS yet. The continued research into this disease is important but so is the awareness and support that charities like the Alzheimer’s’ Society provide.
Our sport is a physical impact support and there is a lit of talk about the impact of our support on dementia in general. Creating awareness off the field alongside ensuring our players have the relevant support in and around the field is a priority for the club.
We kicked off the year with our Centenary dinner and we have already raised well over £1,000 towards the charity and later this year we will have a home match focused on our charity fund raising for the Alzheimer’s Society. I know it’s an over used phrase but please give generously.
There is a donation bottle on the bar – it does take ‘notes’ and we have stickers and badges but if you want a badge, let’s here the rustle of plastic paper please.
MARK ARMSTRONG
