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PRESIDENTS FOREWORD – 2007/08
I WONDER how many of you share my late summer tingle of anticipation and excitement at the prospect at a new rugby season? Gone are the
bruises, strains and twinges that evidence the contests of the last season,
as well as the memories of victories and disappointments that lingered in
the mind after weekends of engaging with fellow rugby clubs. Freshly
arriving are the prospects of another successful season, the highs and lows
of rugby combat, the physical exertion and the promise of making new
friends to join with the many colleagues in the club with whom we share so
much pleasure.
Last season saw the 1st XV acquit itself very well after our promotion of the
previous year. A great deal was learned about how to cope at a higher level, the
importance of deepening the size and skills of the squad, and the crucial contribution
to be made by having strong support from the 2nd and 3rd teams. At a time when
many sports clubs are finding it difficult to field more than a couple of teams, CRFC
can be proud of the consistency with which it regularly puts out 3 teams as well as an
occasional vets side. We have realistic ambitions to add to the size of these squads and,
most of all, offer as many people as possible the chance of having a game of rugby
on a Saturday afternoon.
CRFC is also delighted that each season brings new boys and girls of all ages to join
our mini and junior sides. Asking them why they want to play rugby and how much
they are enjoying it always brings illuminating answers. Some have been introduced to
rugby by their families, some through their schools, some because they are naturally
athletic and some because they have caught the excitement by watching rugby on TV.
Whatever the reason, they are all essential to the future of CRFC and the game in
general. We have benefited immensely from the focus that we have put on developing
youth rugby, and are indebted to the efforts of the coaches and helpers who invest
their time and experience in these valuable young assets.
Fund raising for the new clubhouse is still a top priority and last year’s concentration
on finances rewarded us well. We will have to step up our efforts this season and hope
to be able to raise enough money to give the members the facilities that they deserve
and that we have all waited so long for.
To add to the enjoyment, this autumn sees the World Cup being played in 6 Nations
countries, and we will be showing the games live at weekends to coincide with our own
fixtures. Please join us in the bar for what promise to be some wonderful occasions,
and the further enhancement in popularity of our wonderful game of rugby‚ - I look
forward to seeing and chatting with you throughout the season.
David W. Clark
President CRFC
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