With less than two weeks until the start of the new season, and less than one week until the first wedding to be held down Ossetts Hole Lane, you must forgive me if I come across a little over-excited.

Throughout the summer a number of people have worked bloody hard to give our clubhouse a facelift and hopefully make it a more welcoming environment. This work has really paid off, and while I realise I’m a little subjective, I can now think of no finer clubhouse in the area. So, to Wiggy, JD, Ian, Tim, George, Olly, Fraser, Luke & John – a very sincere, thank you. It’s been hard work but the results speak for themselves. Thanks also to Brian who has taken over Big Steve Dalman’s mantle and religiously mown our pitches through the summer.

I’ve been very encouraged by the positive noises coming out of training. This really does look a stronger squad of players than previous seasons. Big thanks to Sniffy and Woody for their unstinting efforts throughout the summer to prepare us for the new season.

I’m immensely pleased to hear reports that it is likely that this season we will field our first 1st XV player who has come up through the ranks of minis and colts at CRFC. This really will be a landmark achievement for the club, as and when it happens. That the player in question, Tim Westmacott, is son of Brian, just makes it all the sweeter!

The inclusion of our 2nd XV in a league is a fantastic move forward for the club, adding a level of competition the Twos have previously not been able to enjoy. The performances the Twos put in last season were very impressive, and I look forward to seeing them spank all-comers in their new league!

The minis section is due to kick off in early September. The likely inclusion of Tim Westmacott in this year’s 1st XV should be an indicator to everyone just how important the minis section is to the long term future health of the club. But it’s not just about the future, it’s about the here and now; kids coming down, having fun, and learning the game that we have all fallen in love with. If you are ever at a loose end on a Sunday morning, call into the club. You’ll be amazed at what you find.

Having said all the above about the work that’s been going on over the summer, there are no prizes for having a refurbed, but empty, clubhouse! Please do come down and enjoy the new surrounds. If you can’t play rugby, come down and watch rugby. Either way, come down, have a beer, have a laugh, and add to the unique atmosphere that is Claverdon RFC.

If you’re not already coming and have no plans for Saturday evening, come down to celebrate Liz and Paul’s wedding – I know they would like to see as many club faces as possible.

I look forward to seeing you soon.

Good luck Clav – enjoy the rugby, enjoy the beer, and enjoy your club.

Duncan
Chairman