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BRUFC vs HUDDERSFIELD RUFC
Dave Charlton (Ref), Liam Taylor (AF) & Dean Lythgoe (AF)
BILLINGHAM RUFC
- Dan Dixon
- Ed Graham
- Kieran Clark
- Ryan Kirkbride
- Mike Whinn
- Peter Youll
- Tom Campbell
- Dan Burns
- Conner Foley
- Ryan Foreman
- Joe Ross
- Peter Evans
- Matt Kirby
- Jonny Horner
- Elliott Husband (c)
- Adam Sunley
- Harry Beadling
- Nathan Myers
- Joe Evans
- Joe Scarborough
HUDDERSFIELD RUFC
- Callum Thompson (cc)
- Tom Haywood
- Andy Rollins
- Thiu Barnard
- Luke Pearson
- Leighton Davies
- Fran Entressengle
- Lewis Quinn
- Paul Harrison
- Ed Barber
- Finn Stewart
- Billy Hammond
- Ritchie Hawkyard
- Archie Stancliffe
- Lewis Workman
- Niall Phayer
- Alex Dawson
- Harry Whitfield
- Darren Neilly
- Josh Walker
Today's Match Day Sponsor
Broadgate Wealth
Broadgate Wealth has proudly sponsored today's First XV match against Huddersfield.
This partnership signifies a union of community and commerce, reinforcing our shared values of teamwork and community spirit.
As players prepare to take the field, the sponsorship reflects Broadgate Wealth's commitment to supporting local sports and fostering talent within the region. Together, we celebrate the excitement of the game and the enduring spirit of rugby.
TABLE, FIXTURES & RESULTS
National League 2 North
FIXTURES
RECENT RESULTS
Club President & Chairman's Welcome
JOHN KER
CLUB PRESIDENT
In welcoming our visitors in this, our Centenary season, whether you are a player, committee representative or loyal fan, we shall endeavour to make sure that you are treated well, both on and off the pitch, whatever the ultimate result. First of all I would like to apprise you of a few things. As a club we have taken another step (perhaps more of a giant leap) upwards into the higher echelons of English rugby union.
Our rugby club was born out of 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 a 'factory' team. Although our date of inauguration is 1924, during the autumn of 1923, players were recruited, training started and coaching commenced in earnest. The very first game was against West Hartlepool Secondary School when Billingham Synthonia Rugby Football Club won by 8 points to 6. Our first dinner was held in April 1928 and the following year saw us achieve Senior Club status. Although
"… the pavilion was a wooden but and tin basins with cold water did service in place of showers"
We have come on a bit since those days, however, and since the turn of this century we have opened the new clubhouse on a new ground at Greenwood Road, courtesy of lottery funding. Then in August 2017 we added the Artificial Grass Pitch thanks to RFU, but this year, following our league and Durham County Senior cup wins of last season we start life in National 2 North. Not content with promotion, we have added to our facilities in extra special ways, which everyone can enjoy this afternoon.
Annually I put into print my appreciation and thanks to the strong leadership of our hardworking Executive Committee and, of course our very many volunteers, without whom we would struggle. I realise that most sports clubs rely heavily on voluntary help but I think our various groups are a match for any club in the country. I believe it is also 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 is 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.
John Ker
#OSIOS
MARK ARMSTRONG
CLUB CHAIRMAN
Welcome Huddersfield RUFC...
Welcome to all of our wonderful members and supporters, enjoy the match, remember where you are, who we are and respect players, officials and each other. Rugby is always the winner.
I have achieved many things in my life that I am proud of (my family being top of the list), I have been to many places, seen many things, met many people and overall, I see myself as being very fortunate. I also know that fortune favours the brave, hard work delivers results and being part of a team, a successful team is a wonderful place to be.
The above sums up this club for me. I have been fortunate to be part of this club for 35 years of it’s 100 year history and to be it’s Chairman for over 20 of those. A centenary is a milestone in any sport and in life in general and those of us who are members today, including myself, are fortunate to be part of a club that has been built on the back of many generations of players, members and supporters. We may have started out as a works team but back in the day we were a force to be reckoned with and despite the end of the industrial giant that was ICI, Billingham RUFC has gone from strength to strength.
Of course, we have had challenges along the way, including becoming homeless in the 90s, then nearly going out of business in the 00s, but we have come through to where we are today. Many people have contributed to our survival and our growth and the honours board of Presidents, Chairs and Club Captains are a great example of this, but there are many that don’t have their name on boards who have been instrumental in ensuring we can stand here today, with a soft smile on our faces. We have a plan for them too!
If I look at the last 25 years, from the time before we had our clubhouse to where we stand today, many of the people who have helped with our success, are still here today, every day, every game. This club to many, is a big part of their life. Our club is our community and over time our club has become an important part of the community.
When you have a great team, great things happen, and this year, our centenary year, to be playing in the National Leagues, Level 4 of rugby, in the top 60 teams in the country, in our new clubhouse, yes it is a dream come true, but one that was never in doubt.
We have a great rugby leadership team, we have a great rugby operations team, we have a great rugby development team and we are supported by many volunteers. Not only are we playing in Level 4, but we boast teams from U6 to Colts, 4 senior teams and 3 girls teams, a total of 19 teams. You have heard me say time and time again, if you stand still you go backwards and we have never accepted anything for granted and looked to improve every year.
We look at every part of what we do; coaching, kit, health and well-being support, playing surfaces, changing facilities, club, food, even the beer, and we look to make improvements along the way. Today we stand in a new extended and refurbished clubhouse. We used the have the ‘If Carlsberg made toilets…’ moment (we still do) but now we have the ‘If Carlsberg made members bars’ experience. Yes, I am excited about this, of course I am, and why not, who would not want a private bar, with a private balcony with the best view of the match?
But we are not finished, we want to continue to improve and the next phase is the players, including girls changing and physio facilities. Some might ask how you can afford it and the answer is simple, we invest all of our profits back into rugby but we do not pay players, repeat we do not pay players. They, like every playing member, pay their monthly membership subscription. Some say this will restrict our potential, I say, this is what has got us to where we are, this is the ethos that defines our culture and this is what will ensure our success.
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”.
Mark Armstrong
#OSIOS
SENIOR COACH UPDATE
PETER EVANS
SENIOR COACH
Glimpses of potential and improvements but we just didn’t get the job done.
Despite not really putting in the performance we needed we still should have won last week. We had Preston on the ropes and wasted a handful of chances. Thankfully we picked up a point and remain out of the relegation zone. We live to fight another day and boy do we need a win this week.
Our previous performance against Huddersfield is one of my most disappointing days in a shirt for a long time. Regardless of league position and our current requirements we have a performance to put right. Huddersfield, baring 1 result, have really picked up their performances and their defence has clearly improved. We are expecting a windy day and our physicality levels must increase. I won’t hide anything we are going to run and run a lot. The ball will be moved about and we will give it a go.
Last week came at a cost as we lost the Walton sisters for the season, along with Spoors and Sam. Thankfully we have some seriously committed boys this week and holidays have been booked by 4 of our shift lads and everyone is itching to get amongst it.
The 2s head to Morpeth with a very young side with 7 2nd team debuts from Colts. We would much prefer to ease the lads in but they are more than capable and let's hope we go up and get a huge result.
It’s a big day all round, Lewis Moody is down and all the kids will hopefully stick around for the game.
Lets finish a special day off in style.
#OSIOS
National League 2 North Highlights
Round 22
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FIRST XV SHIRT SPONSORS
We can't thank these and all our other sponsors enough for their continued support throughout the season.
CLUB NEWS
Rugby Icon Lewis Moody MBE Graces Billingham with Exclusive Training Sessions
Excitement reverberates through the halls of our club today as we welcome the esteemed presence of former England rugby captain Lewis Moody MBE. Renowned for his unparalleled skill and leadership on the pitch, Moody is here to lead a series of exclusive training sessions with our age-grade rugby teams ahead of our much-anticipated 1st XV game.
With a career marked by triumphs and accolades, Moody brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our players, offering them a rare opportunity to learn from one of the sport's true legends. His presence is sure to inspire our budding athletes as they absorb his invaluable insights and techniques.
As our age-grade teams eagerly prepare to take the field alongside a rugby icon, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Moody's visit is a testament the club's commitment to fostering talent and providing unparalleled experiences for our players.
We extend our warmest welcome to Lewis Moody MBE and express our gratitude for his dedication to shaping the future of rugby at Billingham RUFC. Today's training sessions promise to be unforgettable as our players seize the opportunity to learn from one of the best in the game.
Rugby Fest 2024: Unleash the Excitement!
Join us on June 15th and 16th at the Billingham Rugby Club for the ultimate weekend of sports and festivities! Here's a sneak peek into what awaits:
- Rugby 7s Extravaganza
- Car Show
- Strongman Competition
- Beer Festival
- Live Music
- Food Delights
Billingham Rugby Fest 2024 is more than just rugby; it's a celebration of community, sportsmanship, and fun.
Bring your family and friends to be part of this unforgettable weekend. Get your tickets now for a perfect blend of sports and entertainment!
LADIES DAY '24
SATURDAY 6TH APRIL, 2024.
For the first time since 2016 we are bringing ladies day. It’s always been a huge occasion and we want to bring back the good times.
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
Calling all young U12 girls in County Durham and the North East!
Are you ready to embark on an incredible journey of teamwork, skill development, and fun?
Join us for an exciting season of U12 Girls Rugby, where the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship takes centre stage.
Our U12 Girls Rugby programmes are the perfect opportunity for girls under 12 to discover the joys of rugby. Whether you're new to the sport or looking to hone your skills, our experienced coaches are here to support your growth every step of the way.
Develop lifelong friendships with like-minded girls who share your passion. Build physical fitness, coordination, and mental resilience. Learn essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership. Experience the thrill of competition in a safe and supportive environment.
But that's not all! To get a taste of the excitement, be sure to check out our accompanying promotional video, showcasing the incredible moments and unforgettable memories awaiting you on the rugby field. Don't miss this chance to be part of something extraordinary!
Ready to get started? Get in touch with your local club for more details. Together, we'll tackle challenges, score amazing tries, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Join us on this incredible rugby journey today!
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