V BILLINGHAM RFC SATURDAY, 16TH SEPTEMBER2023 KO 15.00
OFFICIAL DIGITAL MATCH DAY PROGRAMME
ISSUE 2
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20-21
THEWOODLANDS WELCOMETO
CLUB OFFICERS President
Anthony Hoskisson
Chairman Secretary Treasurer
Matt Filipo Gary Melling Andy Cleasby
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Immediate Past President
Jeff Gould
Briersy’s & Lono’s Programme Notes 08-09 Rugby World Cup 2023 schedule 10-11 Mini-Juniors in 2023-24 15 Fylde’s Christmas Market 16
GENERAL COMMITEE Chairman of Rugby
Mark Nelson Mark Windows
M-J Chair
M-J Secretary
Neil Riley
Commercial
Mike Davies
Volunteers Co-ordinator
Roger Westbrook
Club Discipline
Richard Todd
Safeguarding Lead
Caroline Melling
RUGBY MANAGEMENT Joint Head Coaches
Chris Briers & Alex Loney
Hawks Coach Steve Gough Rugby Operations Manager Warren Atkinson 1st XV Registrar “ “ rugbyoperations@fylderugby.co.uk 07429 456955 Resources Manager Peter Conway Saracens & Vandals Jay Harrison, Baz Tucker Referee Liaison Allan Townsend 4th Official Ian Cosh Match Day & Fixture Official Patrick Townsend
Restructuring Fylde’s Senior Teams
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Last time out: Preston Grasshoppers v Fylde
20-21 Today’s Squads 23
MEDICAL Lead Therapist
Archie Dubbins Luke Charnock Jess McIntyre
Fylde v Billingham: Big Match Preview
1st XV Sports Therapist
Hawks Therapist
25 28 37
FRCF’s Summer Camps: a resounding success! Senior Fixtures for 1sts, Hawks & Vandals
CLUB OFFICIALS Grounds & Maintenance Media, Comms & Archives
Patrick Townsend
Allan Foster
Gates
John Wilkinson
STAFF General Manager
Jack Little
League Tables 2023-24
Commercial & Mkting Mgr Sponsorship & Events Mgr
Naomi Dempsey Hayley Salisbury
Bars & Catering Mgr
Heather Allen Daniel Koper
Fylde Rfc, Woodlands Memorial Ground, Blackpool Road, Lytham St Annes Fy8 4El, Lancashire Phone: 01253 734733 Email: info@fylderugby.co.uk
Chef
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03 3
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PHILL MILLS IS NEW HAWKS COACH BREAKING: Phill Mills is the Hawks new Head Coach Fylde RFC is delighted to announce that Phill Mills has been appointed as Head Coach of Fylde Hawks for the 2022-23 season. He takes over from Dominic Moon who has stood down due to business commitments. Phill is an accomplished former Lancashire, England Counties and Fylde flanker/hooker who has also had spells at Preston Grasshoppers and Rossendale. At the age of 28 he was recently forced to retire prematurely through injury. He is also the Fylde Rugby Community Foundation Manager heading up the Foundation’s various and extremely successful rugby and sporting programmes in educational and adult communities along the Fylde Coast. He has many years experience of coaching young and older people in a wide variety of environments. Fylde’s Chairman of Rugby Steve Rigby said: “It was a sad day for the whole club and our County when Phill Mills followed medical advice and announced his retirement from rugby after a series of concussions made it a sensible decision. As a combative hard-running flanker, his energy around the park was very hard to replace, and the game temporarily lost a valuable asset.
major asset and couldn’t be happier to have him back involved directly in player development.” Phill Mills said: ““I am really looking forward to getting started with the new coaching position and preparing for the first games with the Hawks squad. I know from being a past player,
training and playing with the current group that they are an ambitious, talented and have a great team bond which goes a long way in developing a great team. I’m excited to be a part of this!” Fylde Hawks is the Club’s development route to the 1st XV and plays in the North West Independent Rugby Union League (NOWIRUL) Premier Division. An increasing number of young players are progressing through its ranks to 1st XV National League appearances.
Windmill Lodge is due to open in late Summer 2022, providing compassionate care in a warm, safe and secure environment.
The purpose-built lodge will also offer a Day Centre for those requiring extra support and companionship but are not ready to move into full-time residential care.
Providing compassionate care
However, Phill has been a great success in heading up the Fylde Rugby Community Foundation over the last few years, taking Rugby into several non-playing schools and spreading access to the game throughout the area. In addition, Walking and Wheelchair Rugby are now activities available through the Foundation under Phill’s leadership in his day time job. With last season’s Hawks Coach Dominic Moon leaving the Club in the summer due to work commitments, it was the perfect time to bring Phill’s coaching expertise to replace him, and for him to work with a talented squad. The Club knows Phill will be a Residential Care General Nursing Care Day Centre
Residential Dementia Care
Dementia Nursing Care
6 www.windmilllodge.co.uk 01253 800 000 Wilding’s Lane, Lytham St Annes, FY8 3RJ
BRIERSY’S & LONO’S & LONO’S PROGRAMME NOTES
League rugby is certainly back up and running with pre season a long memory! The first 2 weeks have been thrilling with lots of points scored in our first fixtures vs Sheffield Tigers and PGH, which also reflects the whole league. The away win last weekend was pleasing; to get 5 points away from home in National League 2 is not straight forward, but overall, I think we deserved the win through an improved performance from the week before. This week we welcome Billingham to the Woodlands. Many of the players and current staff might not have much experience of playing against this team, but for sure, we will prepare as best we can and it is exciting to play a ‘new team’ in the league. Billingham had a strong season last year and will also be confident from a good win against their local rivals, Tynedale. From a Fylde team perspective, we want to see progression in our performances week to week. We will need hard work and have strong mental skills to get the performance we need, which hopefully is spurred on by some loud home support! Enjoy the match and please enjoy the clubhouse before and after the match. Alex Loney
Photo: Chris Briers and Alex Loney.
ELSEWHERE IN NATIONAL TWO (NORTH) TODAY
HUDDERSFIELD
v
HULL
15:00
HULL IONIANS
v
LEEDS TYKES
15:00
OTLEY
v
SHEFFIELD TIGERS
15:00
ROTHERHAM
v
LYMM
14:00
SHEFFIELD
v
PRESTON G
15:00
TYNEDALE
v
WHARFEDALE
15:00
Other Fylde game today: Sedgley Park 2nds v Fylde Hawks
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ONE OF THE GREATEST SE GREATEST SE TO FYLDE RFC!
Allan Townsend, ‘Mr Fylde’, was born in Preston in 1934. His family moved to Kirkham some years later and he attended Kirkham Grammar School where rugby was pretty much compulsory! After a chance meeting on Kirkham Railway Station with a young Fylde player, David Lyon, he joined the Club in 1955 and had two seasons as a player before serving in the Merchant Navy for a seven year spell which took him around the world several times. He worked subsequently at English Electric Co in Preston as an engineer. He married Sheila in 1959 and their two boys, Sean & Patrick, followed thereafter and eventually formed the ‘Townsend Dynasty’ which collectively has served the Club so well to the current day. Allan was a member of the front row union, either as a prop or a hooker. He made appearances for any of the Fylde teams who wanted him. On one notable occasion, 1st XV manager, Peter Makin, asked him to play the following day, a Bank Holiday, for the 1st team at Leicester. He had to pass up that chance due to another commitment. He was never asked again! In the 1960s he was photographed in the famous front row of Brian Joyce, Richard Carter & AT. When his playing career ended through injury, he was persuaded by George Norman to think about refereeing and he joined the Manchester & District Referees’ Society in the early 1970s. As well as officiating around Lancashire club games over a 20 year period up to the early 1990s, in 1973 he took on the important and onerous role of Fylde’s ‘referee liaison’ for all the Club’s home games. He continues in this role to this day, celebrating his 50th year in the job in 2023. He always gives visiting referees at the Woodlands a warm reception. He became a much valued member of
the Manchester & District Society (‘Madrefs’ as it’s known) Executive and eventually became its President for a two year spell. He continues to travel to the Society’s meetings, only this week at Sedgley Park in North Manchester. Allan has also served in various positions on Fylde’s General Committee over many years and was honoured to serve as Club President for four years up to 2011. Less known generally is his role as one of the instigators of Mini-Junior rugby at the Club along with Peter Makin, Jack Quarnby and coached by Bob Barclay. The photograph of Allan briefing these youngsters at their first ever training session in 1974 is iconic. From very modest beginnings this has become an extremely successful venture with some 350 young players regularly seen at the Woodlands on Sunday mornings. Allan’s contribution to the development of Fylde RFC has been quite outstanding. In his quiet and business-like way, he has been an immense presence around the Club for 68 years, a wonderful ambassador and volunteer. If ever there was an ‘unsung hero’ in community rugby clubs it is Allan. Fylde’s Chairman of Rugby Mark Nelson said: “Every Club has families that are part of the fabric of the place and Fylde is no exception. One of those
8
ERVANTS
experience to the Club to make the key element of officiating the game every match day, whichever teams are playing at the Woodlands, run as smoothly as possible and make sure that our visiting officials are made to feel welcome and have a great experience at the club. “It is an unheralded role, yet one of the most important things to sort out every week. I would like to congratulate and heartily thank Allan for all his efforts down the years. He, like his sons Patrick and Sean, and the much missed Sheila, remain stalwarts of the club. “In these days of uncertainty about where the game is heading, it is massively important to recognise the contribution that volunteers like Allan make to the club and game as a whole. Cheers Allan, enjoy your 50th year looking after our Refs and AR s week in, week out.“
families are the Townsends. Allan is entering his 50th year of service in organising the officiating side of the game at the Club. He has been involved in many capacities but it is his contribution to refereeing that overarches the decades of contribution. “Allan is a key member of the MADREFS ( Manchester and District Referees Society ) and brought his wealth of knowledge, contacts and
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MINI JUNIOR UPDATE: IN 2023-24 Fylde U13s 75 – 5 Vale of Lune U13s (03/09/23)
Fylde tries: Monty M (5), Henry F (3), Will H (2), James S, Frank C, Kai S, Jack S and Tom B Great opening game to the season allowing both teams to trial out and get used to the U13 rules for the first time in a match setting along with the new tackle height laws. The initial ten minutes of the game was played on a training game basis to see how the lads training had gone in respect of new laws, however once we had got through this short period it was clear that both squads were comfortable with the new rules and the game motored on. A warm morning on the pitch did not slow down proceedings with Fylde rushing into an early lead after just 42 seconds with James S careering through traffic and clearing the last quarter of the pitch to score his first try in Fylde colours. The momentum was very much in the Fylde boys hands with tries raining in thick and fast throughout the remainder of the game. The score does not do the Vale boys justice as it was a keen fought contest throughout with some solid defence from both sides throughout, but Fylde’s tempo and creativity allowed the white wash to be crossed regularly by a good cross section of backs and forwards, albeit Monty M, Henry F and Will H carried on where they left off last season with running in plenty
of tries to continue their contest for leading try scorer, all bolstered by a number of crunching tackles from the Fylde forwards. Contested scrums are a major part of the U13 rules and the Fylde and Vale packs dealt with these well both giving good shoves to develop play from their respective No. 9s, with a good amount of pre-planned moves working well off the backs of these. All in all a good initial run out getting the lads ready for the first Lancashire Cup Group A match of the season in a couple of weeks pitting the top two U13 teams in Lancashire against each other… Fylde U13s v Hoppers U13s…….as ever will be interesting!
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FYLDE U9S: MORETHANJUSTRUGBY At the beginning of a new rugby season, the Fylde U9s are not just warming up with drills and passes. This year, they began their journey with a
Players gleefully dove and slid across the slippery surface, their laughter echoing in the air. It was a sight to behold as the U9s, covered in soap suds, showcased their free spirits. This
remarkable half-day of team-building at our very own Dave Fairbrother’s Commando Rugby School. The main aim of this unique event was to reunify the young squad after the long summer hiatus. It’s not just about rekindling team spirit; it’s about forging connections strong enough to withstand the pressure of the most challenging matches. Imagine a group of enthusiastic youngsters navigating through the forest, working collaboratively to construct robust shelters. These
activity was not just an entertaining closer but a reminder that, in rugby and life, it’s essential to embrace fun moments alongside challenges.
exercises weren’t mere games. They laid the foundation for the trust and mutual respect required on the pitch. However, the day wasn’t all about challenges and
While the U9s were engrossed in their activities, parents gathered around a cozy campfire. This laid-back environment provided a space for parents to reconnect, share stories, and reaffirm their support for the team. After all, a team’s strength isn’t only on the field but in the stands cheering them on.
focus. It was also about pure, uninhibited fun. The highlight? A spirited tug-of-war! First, the team tested their might against the mums and then took on the dads. It wasn’t just a display of strength but of unity and determination. Perhaps the most exhilarating segment of the day was the tree-climbing session. Kitted out in full climbing gear, the young players dared to reach for the sky. For many, it was not just about conquering physical heights but overcoming personal fears. As the day neared its end, the energy was far from waning. It was time for the fun finale – a soap and water tarpaulin slide!
For more information on hiring the Commando Rugby School pleas visit: https:/ commandorugbyschool.com
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Community Foundation provided coaches to help develop the skills and techniques of the young players, and referees were on hand to ensure the games were played fairly and with maximum enjoyment. Additionally, a special recognition was given to one player who scored the best try of the festival. The medal for the ‘Best Try’ was awarded to the deserving recipient, who We know how much you care about good catches and good matches. That’s how much we care about your finances. demonstrated excellent rugby skills and sportsmanship throughout the tournament. Questa Chartered are proud supporters of Fylde Rugby Club. Based on the Fylde coast and with a history of Fylde players in our midst going back generations, we help clients with savings, investments, mortgages*, pensions, retirement planning, tax, trusts, workplace pensions and more. Lanes Vets were delighted to support the festival and promote their commitment to the local community. Lanes Vets has been serving the local Questa takes immense pride in being an active part of our local community, and we’ll continue to be avid and active supporters of the club - we look forward to many more years supporting such an integral part of Fylde’s history. To find out more about what we do, visit us at questachartered.co.uk or call us
area for over 40 years and offers a range of pet healthcare services.
For more information on The Fylde Rugby Community Foundation, visit their website at https:/ www.fylderugbyfoundation. com/ For more information on Lanes Vets, visit their website at https:/ lanesvets. com/ Contact: The Fylde Rugby Community Foundation Phone: 07534 321 418 Email: community@ fylderugbyfoundation.com Email: garstang@lanesvets.com
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FYLDE RUGBY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION UPDATE
Evelyn Partners and The National Lottery provide much-needed support, enabling the walking rugby programme and sessions. Their commitment to promoting physical activity and community engagement has been instrumental in driving the Walking Rugby sessions’ popularity.
The Fylde Rugby Community Foundation extends
Lancashire Team Takes on the Rest of the World in a Rainy Rumble!
Coastal Walking Rugby Showdown
The Fylde Rugby Community Foundation’s Walking Rugby enthusiasts gathered on Saturday, August 5th, for a thrilling internal match that pitted the Lancashire team against a spirited Rest of the World side. Despite the relentless downpour, the players showcased their passion, camaraderie, and sportsmanship. The Rest of the World team emerged victorious with an 11-10 tries to win in a closely contested and competitive match. The event, held at Fylde Rugby Club, exemplified the foundation’s dedication to nurturing community, inclusivity, and active living. Laughter and cheers echoed through the rain as both teams demonstrated their skill and camaraderie, reminding everyone that the joy of sports knows no bounds. The Coastal Walking Rugby management team coordinated a remarkable day of friendly competition and shared experiences. Following the thrilling match, participants and spectators congregated at Fylde Rugby Club, where they continued to revel in the spirit of rugby. The group watched the England v Wales World Cup Warm-up rugby fixture while enjoying a social and a beer together. The event highlighted the power of sports to unite and uplift spirits.
an open invitation to join their Walking Rugby sessions. Completely free of charge, these sessions provide an opportunity for individuals to stay active,
make friends, and share memorable moments. For more details or to join, contact Phill at community@ fylderugbyfoundation.com
15
RESTRUCTURING OF FYLDE’S SENIOR TEAMS Due to a combination of circumstances, not least the alarming national trend in decreased player participation, it has been necessary to take the decision to put the Fylde Saracens ( 3rd XV ) into hibernation for the foreseeable future.
Steve Gough said: “First of all, congratulations to the 1st XV for their excellent victory over ‘Hoppers at Lightfoot Green! As for the Hawks against ‘Hoppers 2nds at the Woodlands, an amazing performance despite going down narrowly by 27-34. We probably deserved a minimum of a draw from the game against a team that has been very well organised for a long time. “Onwards & upwards! We’re off to Sedgley
We have made representation to the committee of Halbro North West Leagues (NOWIRUL) outlining our need to restructure our Senior adult male sides into the following categories . We are extremely grateful that they have supported our reorganisation and thank their Committee for their understanding with this matter.
PERFORMANCE 1st XV, National 2 North.
ASPIRATIONAL 2nd XV Hawks, NOWIRUL Premier.
SOCIAL
Vandals, NOWIRUL Div 3 North.
This allows for all abilities to have a platform to play the game safely and competitively according to their requirements on a regular basis . Players may move within the 3 levels depending on individual need and ability and the Club feels that in our current situation this is the optimum system to take the Club forward . Players who have represented the Saracens will be contacted individually or in small groups by team managers/ coaches to discuss their personal circumstances. Whilst it is unfortunate that we have to take a team out of service in the medium term, this decision affords us the opportunity to redevelop the adult male element of Fylde Rugby Club. We can now move forward with a positive mindset and attract increasing numbers into the playing ranks providing a great rugby experience at a great club. It also gives us the building blocks to return to being a 4 team Club down the line. For clarity this reorganisation will take place with immediate effect.
Park this coming Saturday in a NOWIRUL Premier League fixture. I’m really excited about what this might bring from a set of guys we brought together in a very short space of time yet still put in a performance like that against ‘Hoppers. “The effort, determination and passion from the guys was really amazing and made me feel very humble. We’re all looking forward to seeing what we can achieve on this aspirational pathway to high performance levels.
“To the players, make sure that we’re getting all the guys in place and in training
on Tuesday & Thursday
evenings. This will help us pull together some real structure! “Look forward to issuing these videos each week.”
FYLDE HAWKS LOSE NARROWLY TO ‘HOPPERS 2s
Fylde Hawks put up a brave display against a strong Preston Grasshoppers 2nd team at the Woodlands in a NOWIRUL Premier League game before going down by 27-34. The Hawks’ scorers were James Shepherd, Matt Worsnip, Reece Horan and Kyle Macaulay with tries and Dan Slawson with 2 conversions and 1 pen.
In what is to become a regular video piece, Hawks Coach
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LASTTIMEOUT PRESTON GRASSHOPPERS 27 FYLDE 41 REPORT BY SIMON TAYLOR
Fylde’s first road trip of the new season was one of several local derbies in National 2 North as they made the short trip to Lightfoot Lane to meet their old foes Preston Grasshoppers. In scorching hot temperatures, where a gentle game of crown green bowls would have been hard going, both teams then contributed in equal measure to a highly entertaining affair in front of a sun baked and appreciative 1500 strong crowd. When the shadows finally lengthened Fylde had outscored the hosts 5 tries to 3 for a deserved win, bagging 5 league points. Hoppers made a fast and energetic start on their own midden, perhaps thinking this was a good time to be playing Fylde, who have a cast of stars amongst their walking wounded at present. Fylde kicked off but then didn’t lay a hand on the ball for 2 minutes as Hoppers drove strongly downfield with Ed Keohane bursting over and Will Hunt converting for an early 7-0 lead. Fylde then soaked up 10 minutes of pressure and gained their first penalty to set up the lineout 25 out. Clean ball off the top gave Tom Carleton the chance to hit, spin and bounce out of the tackle before floating a long pass out to give Adam Lanigan a clear run to the line. Greg Smith kicked the conversion from wide out and the score was tied at 7 apiece. Will Hunt kicked two penalties on 13 and 18 minutes to give Hoppers the lead back at 13-7. Fylde remained patient and looked to be incisive when they had good ball and field position. A lovely slicing 40-yard break midfield by Ben Turner, in off his wing, saw play up to the Hoppers line. As the ball was recycled it went to ground, but Tom Forster tidied up, saw the narrowest of channels and exploited it to force over wide out right. A second fine conversion from Smith saw Fylde re-take a narrow lead at 14-13. Fylde now had their best 10-minute spell of the game, which was to ultimately prove the deciding factor. Excellent off the top line out ball from Matt Garrod gave Tane Bentley the chance to put Hoppers on the back foot. Quickly recycled ball and a lovely running line saw Smith put Tom Carleton through near the posts in the 27th minute. 4 minutes later Carleton was at it again, bagging his brace after Fylde had forced penalties and stretched Hoppers again with quick line out ball, strong forward carries and speedily recycled phases. Hoppers were struggling to live with the tempo Fylde were playing at, and with Smith converting both tries, Fylde had forged a healthy 28-13 lead.
Back came Hoppers once again with their sponsors player of the match Jake Maher picking out a mismatch in the Fylde defensive line on 38 minutes and striding in for a fine try. Hunt converted to bring the score back to 28-20 in Fylde’s favour at the interval. The first try of the 2nd half was always going to be important, and fortunately for Fylde it went their way and it was the try of the game. On 46 minutes the silky skilled veteran Greg Smith produced a deft chip over the Hoppers defence. Ben Turner swooped on the bouncing ball, fed skipper Ben Gregory who in turn gave Adam Lanigan enough space to keep the cover defence at bay as he raced in from 20 yards to complete his own brace. Smith made it 5 from 5 conversions and Fylde’s lead was back out to 15 points at 35-20. On 58 minutes he extended the lead to 38-20 with a penalty. Hoppers came back again when Will Hunt’s perfect pin- point cross field led eventually to winger Jack Lightowler notched their third try. Hunt’s conversion brought Hoppers back to 38-27. By now numerous replacements brought fresh legs to the contest and Greg Smith added another penalty to close proceedings. Fylde had sealed local bragging rights in the first of the two derby meetings this season. If the second one in December is as good as this one, then those attending The Woodlands will be richly rewarded.
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BIG MATCH
It is 94 years since Fylde and Otley first played each other, meeting twice in the 1928-29 season. On 27th October 1928 Otley won 18-9 at Cross Green but Fylde gained revenge, 8-6, at the Woodlands on 1st April 1929. This became a regular fixture thereafter, twice a season until 1968-69 with the fixture at the Woodlands scheduled to coincide with Blackpool’s Illuminations. From 1969-70 the two clubs played each other once a season, alternating home and away. The onset of league rugby broke this pattern in 1990. By this time, they had played each other 87 times in club matches, with Fylde winning 56, drawing 6 and Otley winning 25. The clubs met in league competition for the first time on 25th April 1992 at the Woodlands, the final day of the 1991- 2 season. This was particularly important for Fylde who needed to win to secure promotion, along with Richmond, to National Division Two. It was a very tense occasion and Fylde just came out on top. It was in the 1999-2000 season when Otley were on their way upwards through the leagues, whilst Fylde
season, winning 15 and losing 7 games. One of their victories was a 28-27 triumph against Fylde at their famous old Cross Green ground.
Otley’s Head Coach is PE teacher Kyle Dench, a well known former centre at Otley, Harrogate and a regular Yorkshire County cap. They have a strong squad, with a mix of experienced campaigners, also with Yorkshire County honours, and young talent. In the game between the two clubs in February, their powerful pack caused particular problems for Fylde in the tight and loose exchanges. Fylde’s scrummaging and lineout play will have to be accurate if they are to provide their dangerous backline with sufficient possession to test the visitors’ defence. The Otley pack features props Jason Moss, Billy Nicholls and Ethan Thiart, hooker Luke Cole, highly experienced locks Simon Willett and Brett Mitchell, and a backrow including accomplished no 8 Adam Malthouse, Ben Wadington and Sam Hodge. But Otley are far from a one trick forwards-dominated team. They showed in the February game that they can attack wide with menace through a dangerous backline featuring Callum Irving, Sam Taylor, Clark Wells and brothers Charles and Elliot Morgan. Fly-half is usually Eddie Crossland and he’s most often partnered by scrum-half and goal kicker Joe Rowntree but the latter has missed recent matches. Leading points scorer is Rowntree with 90, with wing Clark Wells heading the try count with 11. Our visitors are not only one of the oldest clubs in England but is almost certainly the only club in the world that can count a Nobel Physics Prize winning scientist as a former player! Albert Fert, together with German scientist Peter Gruen-berg, have shared the award for their independent discoveries, in the 1980s, of a process allowing huge amounts of data to be squeezed into ever-smaller spaces - now used by billions of people on their computers and digital music players. The scientist, born in 1938, actually played in the back row for Otley RUFC in the mid 1970s, mostly in the second team. He was in West Yorkshire at the time, working with professors Jim Morgan and Denis Greig on the conduction of electricity by magnetic metals at the University of Leeds.
were slipping down. By the 2003-4 season, Otley were competing at level 2, Fylde at level 4. Seven seasons later, Fylde were promoted back to level 3 whilst Otley were relegated to level 4. So once again, the clubs avoided each other in league action. A gap of 18 years separated fixtures between the clubs until they met again in 2018-19. For Otley, life in National Two (North) since 2010 has been rather up and down. They finished 5th in 2012-13 but dropped to mid-table for the rest of the decade until a poor 2019-20 campaign saw them slip down to the regional divisions at level 5. But there was an immediate improvement and they stormed to the championship of North Premier last season and a return to National Two for 2022-23 – and it has been a successful campaign as they’ve been in the top four in the division for most of the
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NELSON’S COLUMN
The Future of English Rugby … a 10 point “to do list“ and a 3 minute read. [Mark Nelson writes in a personal capacity.]
Where does the game in England go from here? That surely must be the biggest question on the agenda at HQ and as Joe Walsh sang “The future is wide open“. It really needs a visionary approach to get things back on track and give a sense of purpose at all levels. This season has seen the demise of two Premiership Clubs, devastating falling player numbers in the community game, England being ‘also rans’ in the 6 Nations, a looming exodus of players to lucrative contracts in France, the rise and rise of French and Irish Rugby, the abject failure of the Papa Johns Pizza Cup, “High Tackle Gate“ causing a peasants’ revolt, a Championship that is hard to fathom as to what purpose it serves, the disrespect towards County Rugby in terms of credence and funding, English Clubs struggling in Europe, the dementia crisis, low referee and AR recruitment …… have I missed anything? .... Probably. Anyone can carp from the sidelines but there is so much going on that it just seems that the game is fire fighting one crisis after another. So instead of whinging here is a list of 10 suggestions that I have to offer a way out of the mire. 1. Decentralise the RFU and re empower the running of the game at regional, county and local level. 2. Re introduce the Youth Development Officer Programme across the Country linked to Counties, local authorities and Club Clusters, working with Schools and Education Centres. 3. Link each Academy to a University rather than cede control to Premiership Clubs. 4. Focus on Male Colts Rugby, concentrating on transition from youth to adult rugby in Clubs. 5. Create Central Contracts for England Players and RFU take control back off the Elite game from the cartel of the Premiership. 6. Restructure and properly finance Club Rugby below the Premiership based on input from practitioners on the ground, not theorists at Twickenham. 7. Give representative rugby a proper stage and provide aspirational players an opportunity to showcase their abilities on a County stage. 8. Reinstate England Counties XV. 9. Engage with key personnel at Clubs, schools and counties at all levels and devise strategies based on what they need on the ground as opposed to generic processes. The same applies to Coaching and Referee development. 10. Properly fund league rugby at level 2 down, based on travel, resources, player welfare, facilities etc. The overriding factor is that the RFU recognise it exists to service “The Game“ ie WE are the RFU .It does not exist to service the careers of its employees. There are very talented people who work at the RFU. I’ve met and worked with a good number of them, and Bill Sweeney is a true rugby man. This aligned to the elected Council Members should give us the foundations to create a brave new world for English rugby. The Key is for us all to say “Its Our Game“ so lets have a game in England that we all contribute towards, get behind and be proud of. Our Clubs, Schools, Counties, Universities are full of incredibly dedicated and knowledgeable people who make the game happen week in, week out. Let’s get them on board with the decision making processes and counsel the professional staff as to how the game goes forward, ie the RFU employees become facilitators rather than have autonomy as to policy. One thing is for certain. We cannot keep going as we are and hope things get better on their own. Positive action is required and that begins with positive engagement, not surveys, or groovy sounding departments and sound bites on Twitter and Podcasts. It is not all doom and gloom. As I say, there are talented people at the RFU but by the same token there is a legion of talented people who are practitioners of the game at the coal face. Between us both we should be able to sort out a bright future …. surely?
www. fylderugby .co.uk
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Are your financ www.ludco.co.uk
COACHES: CHRIS BRIERS, ALED TRENHAILE AND ALEX LONEY FORWARDS Peter Altham (prop) Matt Ashcroft (prop) Valu Tanē Bentley.(flanker) Corey Bowker (prop)
Harlan Corrie (backrow) David Fairbrother (no 8) Matt Garrod (lock) Ben Gregory (hooker) Ethan Hall-Lyon (lock/backrow) Toby Harrison (backrow)
Adam Lewis (prop) Toby Merrick (lock) Sam Parker (hooker) Olli Parkinson (lock)
Cameron Railton (hooker) James Robinson (backrow) BACKS Charlie Cadley (scrum-half) Sam Carleton (wing/fullback) Tom Carleton (fullback) Alex Clayton (flyhalf) Jordan Dorrington (wing/15) Tom Forster (centre) Ben Gould (scrum-half) Adam Lanigan (wing/scrum-half) Scott Rawlings (centre)
TODAY’S OFFICIALS
PETER CONNOR
Greg Smith (flyhalf) Sam Stott (centre) Ben Turner (wing)
TIM BROWN
ANDREW IRVINE
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ces under control? Ludlow Wealth Management Group is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. ces under control? Ludlow Wealth Management Group is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Peter Evans
HEAD COACH:
15 14 13 12
Elliott Husband ©
Joe Ross
Peter Youll Luke Wilson Jonny Horner Peter Evans
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10
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Sam Heron
1
Adam Brown Jordan Foulds Kieran Clark Ben Walton Mike Walton
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Dan Burns
John Padley
Anthony Jackson
16 17 18 19 20
Ed Graham Joe Spoors
Ryan Kirkbride Tom Campbell Louie Groark
www. fylderugby .co.uk
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A LEGEND RETURNS!
Fylde RFC is delighted to announce the appointment of Steve Gough to the Club’s senior coaching group, with particular responsibility for the Fylde Hawks (the Club’s 2nd team). He will be working closely with the 1st XV’s Joint Head Coaches, Alex Loney and Chris Briers. Steve’s involvement will cement the Hawks as a vital pipeline for young talent through to the Club’s 1st team squad and on to National League rugby. Steve joined Fylde in 1985 as an 18 year old and had a distinguished 13 years tenure at fullback or fly-half and goal kicker in the Club’s campaign at National One (level 3) and Allied Dunbar 2 (level 2). He joined Coventry and then Birmingham Solihull between 1998 & 2001 before returning to the Woodlands as player-coach in the 2001-2 season. In all he made 320 appearances for Fylde and scored 1432 points. Chris Briers said: “There could be no better coach and mentor to young players than ‘Goughie’. Apart from senior coaching experience at Preston Grasshoppers, Tarleton and Fylde, over the last 15 years Steve has managed Myerscough College’s ACE/AASE programmes and is Sale Sharks DiSE (Diploma in Sporting Excellence) Manager and head of rugby. He’s coached many hundreds of young players who have gone on to successful
in the area, and to attract other players from the North West and beyond. Talent acquisition is a very serious objective. “A successful National League club such as Fylde needs a large and strong squad of players if it is to compete successfully and the
Hawks is a vital component in this development route. I expect there will be a significant increase in players based on Steve’s contacts with former students in the area. “Steve will receive a very warm welcome back at the Woodlands!” Steve Gough said: “I am excited to be returning to Fylde where I have had amazing experiences and memories. I am looking forward to the challenge and to work alongside top coaches in Chris and Alex. Having spoken to Nelly, I am convinced the club are heading in the right direction and have a clear plan for developing young talent, supporting the 1st team and wider squad.
careers in elite, semi-professional and community rugby. I worked with him at Myerscough and know that he’s an excellent judge of potential amongst a big pool of mainly Northern rugby talent. He’ll be a great asset to the Club.” Chairman of Rugby Mark Nelson said: “I’ve known and respected Goughie as a player and coach for a very long time. We are determined to continue the development of local young players, in partnership with schools, colleges and universities
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BIG MATCH
FYLDE V BILLINGHAM We are delighted to welcome the players, officials and supporters of Billingham RUFC to the Woodlands today (ko 15.00) for the first ever match between the two clubs. This is especially notable as our visitors are celebrating their 100th anniversary in this 2023-24 season, being formed four years after Fylde in 1924. Fylde last lost at the Woodlands in April 2022 and have subsequently gone 15 games without defeat. They will hope to build on the excellent performance at a sweltering Lightfoot Green last Saturday when they came away with a 27-41 victory over local rivals Preston Grasshoppers. So they will be hoping for more of the same against their North East visitors. Billingham is situated north of the River Tees in the Borough of Stockton-on-Tees. Gaining promotion from the North East Regional Premiership to the National Leagues marks the Club’s highest level achievement in their long history. In 2022-23 they led the division for a long period and shaded nearest competitor, the Yorkshire club Heath RFC, by 12 points with a record of 19 wins and 3 defeats at the end of the season, with 812 points scored and just 292 conceded. The Club’s 2nd XV (Lions) play in The “Candy League” Division 1. The 3rd XV play in The League “Candy League” Division 2. and the Colts play in a Saturday Colts League. The junior section range from u-7 minis to u-16’s with teams winning Durham county cups and leagues recently. Billingham play their home matches at Greenwood Road. Billingham Rugby Club was formed in 1924 as the rugby section of the Synthonia Sports Club at Synthetic Ammonia and Nitrates Company, which later became Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI). Once established, the club became a force in Durham County Rugby Union, especially after the Second World War and the first team was very strong during the 1950s and early 1960s. The early 1970s saw a downturn in the chemical industry and with the decline of ICI, the rugby club suffered. In the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s the club became somewhat nomadic in its socialising, although still playing on Central Avenue. 1989 was an important year in the life of the club. The youth section was founded and boys and girls from the age of eight upwards playing mini-rugby. Since then, this section of the club has gone from strength to strength and has provided several current members of the first XV squad.
The 1990s saw an upturn in the club’s fortunes and three teams were regularly playing each week with socialising based at the Synthonia
Cricket Club. The club moved to play on Greenwood Road in 1996 although until late 2000 there were no facilities whatsoever, just three pitches. For these years we had a three-site existence, changing, playing and socialising in different locations. However, December 2000 and a £750,000 lottery grant brought the opening of the new clubhouse giving the club a solid base and identity and that has served as a stepping-stone to current success and advancement. This is an ambitious club with very strong roots in the local community accompanied by careful financial and sporting management. Their vibrancy is reflected in a buoyant playing membership, from the U6s to Colts, 4 senior teams, 3 girls teams - 19 teams in all! Their debut in the National League on 2nd September was a little painful when they were beaten by a powerful Rotherham Titans outfit in Yorkshire by 52-24. Their speedy backs had insufficient possession to threaten the Titans who are again setting out their stall for a promotion campaign. Last Saturday Billingham made their home debut in the National League and celebrated by beating North East rivals Tynedale by 20-17 in front of an extended and refurbished clubhouse. It was always a tight contest, 12- all at the interval. The visitors scored an unconverted try before Billingham equalised with a try in the 63rd minute and then a 75th minute penalty earned the victory and the enthusiastic crowd acclaimed their heroes. Playmaking flyhalf and goal kicker Peter Evans is also the clubs Head Coach. He’s also a long term Billingham servant, a characteristic he shares with a few other team mates. For instance, backrower Dan Burns made his 250th appearance and centre Luke Wilson his 200th 1st XV appearance against Tynedale.
www. fylderugby .co.uk
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FYLDE RUGBYCOMMUNITYFOUNDATION SUMMER CAMPS A RESOUNDING SUCCESS FOR CHILDREN AGED 5-16. Council. Thanks to their invaluable contributions, numerous children had the opportunity to attend these camps and benefit from a nutritious breakfast and hot lunch. This collaborative effort
The Fylde Rugby Community Foundation is thrilled to announce the triumphant conclusion of its Rugby and multi- sport camps held
exemplifies the Foundation’s dedication to making sports and recreation accessible to all, irrespective of financial circumstances.
The Fylde Rugby Community
Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to all partners, participants and volunteers who made these camps a remarkable success. This collective effort embodies the spirit of community and the belief that every child deserves a chance to thrive through sports and teamwork.
throughout the summer school
holidays. These engaging and action-packed camps provided a delightful blend of sports and rugby activities, catering to children between the ages of 5 and 16. The Foundation is proud to report that these camps witnessed an outstanding turnout, with over 500 enthusiastic young participants over the course of four weeks. Taking place at two of our esteemed partner venues, Fylde Rugby Club and Garstang Rugby Club, these camps were designed to promote a love for sports, teamwork, and physical activity among the youth in the community. The Foundation's commitment to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among children was evident in the resounding success of these summer camps. One of the standout features of this initiative was the inclusion of free places, made possible through the generous support of The Wooden Spoon charity and Fylde
For more information about the Fylde Rugby Community Foundation and its upcoming initiatives, please visit www.fylderugbyfoundation.com or contact community@ fylderugbyfoundation.com
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PETER ALTHAM PROP
MATT ASHCROFT PROP
PHILL MILLS HOOKER VALU TANĒ BENTLEY FLANKER
CHARLIE CADLEY SCRUM-HALF
SAM CARLETON WING/FULLBACK
Sponsored By
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Sponsored By NR ENGINEERING LTD
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ALEX CLAYTON FLY-HALF
HARLAN CORRIE BACKROW
JORDAN DORRINGTON WING/FULLBACK
TOM CARLETON FULLBACK
DAVID FAIRBROTHER NO 8
Sponsored By CLAYTONS JEWELLERS
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TOM FORSTER CENTRE
TOBY HARRISON BACKROW
MATT GARROD LOCK
BEN GREGORY HOOKER
ETHAN HALL-LYON BACKROW/LOCK
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SAM PARKER HOOKER
ADAM LEWIS PROP
OLLI PARKINSON LOCK
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE ADAM LANIGAN SCRUM-HALF
TOBY MERRICK LOCK
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JAMES ROBINSON BACKROW
GREG SMITH FLY-HALF
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE SAM STOTT CENTRE
CAMERON RAILTON HOOKER
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE CENTRE
Sponsored By REACT
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SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE COREY BOWKER PROP
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE BEN GOULD SCRUM-HALF
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE BEN TURNER WING/FULLBACK
Sponsored By REACT
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CHRIS BIERS JOINT HEAD COACH
ALEX LONEY JOINT HEAD COACH
STEVE GOUGH HAWKS COACH
Sponsored By
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WARREN ATKINSON RUGBY OPERATIONS MGR
PETER CONWAY RESOURCES MGR
4TH OFFICIAL IAN COSH
www. fylderugby .co.uk
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1STXVFIXTURES 2023-24
FYLDE 1st XV
HAWKS
VANDALS
N2(N
NOWIRUL PREM
NOWIRUL Div 3(N)
19-Aug-23
Blackburn
26-Aug-23
SALE FC/ HAWICK
02-Sep-23
SHEFFIELD TIGERS
Macclesfield 2
Preston G 5
09-Sep-23
PRESTON G 2
Preston G (14.30)
Orrell 2
16-Sep-23
BILLINGHAM
Sedgley Park 2
23-Sep-23
CALDY 2
Wharfedale (14.00)
Preston G 4
30-Sep-23
LYMM
Sandbach 2
Bolton 2
07-Oct-23
BLACKPOOL 2
Rotherham (14.00)
14-Oct-23
TYNEDALE
ROSSENDALE 2
Burnley 2
21-Oct-23
Leeds Tykes
Cup Comp
Cup Comp
28-Oct-23 04-Nov-23
HUDDERSFIELD
BLACKBURN 2
Fleetwood 2
11-Nov-23
Sheffield (14.15)
Anselmians 2
Colne & Nelson 2
18-Nov-23
OTLEY
LYMM 2
Clitheroe 2
25-Nov-23
Hull Ionians (14.00)
02-Dec-23
HULL
Wirrall 2
09-Dec-23
ORRELL 2
Preston G 2
16-Dec-23
PRESTON G
SEDGLEY P 2
Blackpool 2
23-Dec-23
GARSTANG 3
Christmas
Christmas
30-Dec-23
New Year
New Year
New Year
06-Jan-24
HOPPERS 4
Caldy 2
13-Jan-24
SANDBACH 2
BOLTON 2
Billingham (14.15)
20-Jan-24
WHARFEDALE
WHARFEDALE 2
27-Jan-24
Lymm (15.00)
Cup Quarter Finals
Cup Quarter Finals
03-Feb-24
CHESTER 2
ORMSKIRK 2
10-Feb-24
ROTHERHAM
17-Feb-24
FLEETWOOD 2
Tynedale (14.00)
Blackburn 2
24-Feb-24
Huddersfield (14.00)
02-Mar-24
ANSELMIANS 2
COLNE & NELSON 2
09-Mar-24
SHEFFIELD
16-Mar-24
Otley (14.15)
Cup Semi Finals
Cup Semi Finals
23-Mar-24
HULL IONIANS
WIRRALL 2
Garstang 3
30-Mar-24
Easter
Easter
Easter
06-Apr-24
MACCLESFIELD 2
PRESTON G 5
Hull (14.00)
13-Apr-24
LEEDS TYKES
Chester 2
Ormskirk 2
20-Apr-24
BURNLEY 2
Rossendale 2
27-Apr-24
CLITHEROE 2
Sheffield Tigers (15.00)
Lymm 2
04-May-24
Cup Finals
Cup Finals
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