Saturday at Steel Cross was more than just a match day; it was a masterclass in what Crowborough RFC is all about. At the heart of it was club stalwart Mark Rosier, whose journey in the Red and White hoops began way back in 1982. Originally coached by his own father, Alan, with whom he also managed to play senior rugby with . Mark has been a mainstay of the 1st XV since his debut at 18. Aside from a brief university break and a few injury spells, he has racked up well over 700 appearances (though records from the "dark ages" make an exact count a challenge!).

Yesterday, that journey came full circle in the ultimate "proud coach and dad" milestone. Mark took to the field for our 2nd XV match day squad alongside his son, Mason, and five other young stars in what was the senior debut for six of our current Colts: Mason, Freddie, Tom, Ben, Alex, and Max. Having coached this specific group since the 2014/15 season, seeing the lads he mentored as six-year-olds transition into senior rugby was a moment over a decade in the making.

The Blueprint for the Future
This isn’t just a feel-good story; it celebrates the club’s dedicated focus over the last three seasons on building a strong youth-to-senior transition programme. By intentionally bridging the gap between the Academy and our senior match day squads, we are ensuring our home-grown talent has a clear path to the senior game.

The best part? The production line is in full swing:
• More to come: Several more lads from Mark’s squad will be available for selection shortly; they missed out this weekend due to minor injuries or general availability, but we look forward to seeing them in shirts soon.

• The University Connection: The club’s reach is wider than ever, with 14 players from previous cohorts currently away at Uni. They stay in close contact and return to play for the ’Borough at every opportunity.

• Building Momentum: Alongside the debutants, we also had three recent Colts on the pitch, including Alf Russell, who moved up to seniors two years ago and had the pleasure of playing alongside his dad, fellow club stalwart Ian Russell.

Great Performance
Facing a determined Haywards Heath 2s side, the "young guns" proved the programme is working. In a commanding 41-7 victory, the former Colts bagged the lion’s share of the seven tries:
• Mason: 2 Tries (the perfect debut under Dad’s watchful eye!)
• Freddie: 2 Tries

Huge congratulations to Mark, Ian, Mason, Alf, Freddie, Tom, Ben, Alex, and Max. The future of the ’Borough is looking very bright!

(Mason,Alf,Ian,Mark)

(Max,Freddie,Mason,Alex,Tom,Ben)