I'm delighted to announce this season's 1st XV squad. Selection hasn't been easy; whilst the squad contains many familiar names, there are also several new faces, which I firmly believe is a sign of our progression as a club, and also reflects the hard work that's been put in over the pre-season, for which I'm genuinely grateful to the lads. Equally, we still have several senior players not available for selection due to long term injury who aren't forgotten, and we hope t...o see them back in full swing before the season end. the squad is:

Ed Potts
Eli Woodward
James Guy
Aaron Voller
Dave Germain
Steve Outhwaite
Ricky Evans
Ian Merrill

Niall Macgregor
Phil Alcock
Matt Wright
Pat Fray

Josh Collins
Matt Standley
Dave McFarland
Alex Gammage
Josh Howard
Kirk Robinson
Oli Buckley

Adam Smallwood
Charlie Hutchings
Jamie Little
Scott Cann
Thom Vanstone
Tom Maguire
Matt Doherty
Joe Gammage
Tim Cowap
Dave Sheperd
Toby Ward
Eddie Spibey

From my perspective, I'm extremely proud of what we achieved last season, but we have to be very aware that firstly, it's only a stepping stone to the National Leagues which we aspire to, and secondly, we're not unique in our ambition!...it's a hard league and we will have to adjust quickly to ensure we at the very least consolidate our position this coming season. If we get it right...who knows?

Being a 1st XV squad player is a big commitment; the lads are training Tuesdays and Thursdays with the club, and doing conditioning work on a Wednesday in the club session run by Kirk, as well as following their own plans. However, both the players and the coaches are also very aware and appreciative of the hard work that goes on behind the scenes to run the club for all our sides, and to produce the excellent facilities we'll enjoy this season.

So, this is the start of a long 9 months of rugby. I wish Niall and the captains and players in all teams the very best for success come next spring, and assure you of my commitment to the team, alongside Andy Brown and Andy Pemberton, who are doing a great job coaching the forwards, and I certainly hope that our great physios Emma, Lisa and Jo aren't too busy!

I look forward to seeing you at the games...thanks in anticipation of your support...enjoy the season!

Cheers

Dudders