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BRUFC vs WHARFEDALE RUFC
Jack Moorhouse (Ref), Matt Daubney (AF) & Carl Walsh (AF)
BILLINGHAM RUFC
- Dan Dixon
- Ed Graham
- James Watson
- Ryan Kirkbride
- Mike Whinn
- Dan Burns
- Nathan Myers
- Anth Jackson
- Conner Foley
- Ryan Foreman
- Joe Ross
- Peter Evans
- Peter Youll
- Jonny Horner
- Elliott Husband (c)
- Adam Sunley
- Harry Beadling
- Tom Campbell
- Joe Evans
- Joe Scarborough
WHARFEDALE RUFC
- Sam Dickinson
- Ben Patchett
- Jake Armstrong
- Rhys Green
- George Hedgley
- Jack Pinder
- Ben Markey
- Tom Beresford
- Oli Riddiough
- Louis Verity
- Sam Gaudie
- Oliver Cicognini
- James Coulton
- Robbie Davidson
- Ryan Hodgson
- Robbie Collinson
- Maddison Hunting
- Josh Burridge
- Sam Cox
- Josh Prell
Today's Match Day Event
Celebrating 'Ladies Day' at Billingham Rugby Club
A Joyful Return After Eight Years
Today marks a special occasion at Billingham Rugby Club as we proudly host 'Ladies Day' for the first time since 2016. As the gates open and the excitement builds, it's a celebration of community, sportsmanship, and camaraderie.
Amidst the anticipation of the match against Wharfedale, the ladies will be treated to afternoon tea paired with the sparkling charm of Prosecco.
Beyond the rugby pitch, the presence of Billingham Cricket Club adds an extra layer of warmth to the festivities. Their continued support not only strengthens the bond between the two clubs but also underscores the spirit of unity within the local sporting community.
As laughter mingles with cheers and the sun (hopefully) casts its golden glow over the grounds, 'Ladies Day' at Billingham Rugby Club becomes more than just a sporting event; it's a cherished tradition rekindled, a moment to savour the joys of friendship, sport, and the shared experiences that bring us all together.
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 Wharfedale 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
A welcome weeks rest has hopefully allowed us to physically and mentally prepare for a massive finish to the season.
We took 11 points from March, it was a month we targeted and to be honest were disappointed not to take 15 points. That’s a huge step forward from the deep winter months where our confidence was really low.
We have 3 games remaining and 2 of them at home. Both home games are against 2 of the top sides in the league. Wharfedale will come in big favourites and with the high winds forecasted it will likely suit their power game. We have managed to put ourselves in a great place but we aren’t finished yet. Hull Ionian’s are right behind us and every point counts.
The 2s also play a very strong Wharfedale side which for years have dominated 2nd team rugby. It should be a great test.
We have our injury woes especially up front but it's pleasing to name two great squads.
70 plus ladies, 20 plus cricketers are supporting the game this weekend and it should be a bumper crowd. This season has been supported so well and it’s a big thanks from me. The lads have loved the atmosphere!
3 cup finals to go.
#OSIOS
National League 2 North Highlights
Round 23
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The place to watch The National League Rugby Review Show every single week. Find out more at: ncarugby.com
Subscribe to their YouTube channel to watch the best tries and biggest moments throughout the season.
FIRST XV SHIRT SPONSORS
We can't thank these and all our other sponsors enough for their continued support throughout the season.
YOUR LIONS TODAY…
- Kev Vaughan
- Richie Hammond
- Will Mellor
- Will Scott
- Witness Mandizha
- Oscar Ready
- Phil Reay
- Matt Westall
- Sam Wilson
- Luke Featherstone
- Louie Groark
- Luke Armstrong snr
- Harry-Jon Morgan
- Tom Briggs
- Ste Bartliff
- Anth Kelsey
- Kieran Scollay
- Jack Jeffers
- Harry Burnard
- Eldon Myers
CLUB NEWS
Dale Thompson Becomes An International Referee
Congratulations to Dale Thompson for becoming an international wheelchair rugby referee.
Dale passed his certification in September 2023 at the European Division Championships in Lignano Sabiadoro, Italy.
Dale started Officiating in 2013 as a table official and began refereeing in 2017. To gain the certification, Dale had to pass a rules exam, fitness test, as well as successfully completing a chair check and on court evaluations.
Dales first international tournament as an internationally certified Referee will be at the Quad Nation's next month in Cardiff.
Well done, Dale.
#OSIOS
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!
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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