Cantabrigian RUFC kicks of its 67th season on 14th September with a home fixture against newly promoted Campion RUFC. Once a regular fixture; but probably five years or more since we met the Essex team in the Junior Vase. Jeff Railton and Angela will be hosting our traditional pre-match BBQ which is again sponsored jointly by Rathbones and PIMS.
We have had good numbers at training over the last month or so and we are hopeful of starting the season with three teams under the leadership of Rich Ford (1st XV), Mike Denman (2nd XV) and Matt Shepherd (3rd XV). The 3rds have already competed against the touring Hampstead 5ths and honours were shared in a close fought game with both teams enjoying a full evening of post match festivities in the Clubhouse, followed by a tour of the Cambridge night life and a curry to finish, when 17 of their lads and 14 of our team attending to finish the evening off nicely. This coming Saturday our 2nds take on Cambourne and on 7th September the 1st XV get a run out at Biggleswade.
Lots of new faces in the playing membership which is good to see and coach Mick Jones is confident that we can compete well again in London 3NE. Leading scorer for the last three seasons, full back Ali McCormick misses the first half of the season with a ruptured achilles. Ali will be sorely missed and we wish him a speedy recovery. With the exception of Ali most of last season's squad are training and with some new young bloods pushing for 1st XV places we are looking to compete for honours again this season.
The committee, led by Chairman Dave Norman have ensured that our pitch is in first class condition and the embankment has been cleared under the guidance of Eddie Richardson. Of course you will also be aware that the changing facilities have been upgraded by Hills Road with the creation of a brand new pavilion built adjacent to the two pitches. So, after 60 years of cold showers the teams are now being spoilt!
For those members who are interested, the grand opening is on Wednesday 25th September, and our clubhouse bar will be open at 18.00 for those of you who wish to watch Cantabs take on the College at touch rugby and view the new facility.
Apart from the opening BBQ the club will have its usual pre-match luncheons for members and following the creation of a new ladies section we can look forward to rather more social activities during this coming season.
For my part, I look forward to seeing you in the 2013/14 season and thank you for your continuing support. Cantabrigian RUFC is still in the only true amateur club in Cambridge and with your help will cointinue to be so.
Nigel Faben, Club President