Category: Rugby News

Saturday Showdown: Lions, Nomads, and Wanderers Ready for Action!

As the rugby calendar marches on, this Saturday promises an exciting lineup of matches for Bournemouth’s finest. While Chapel Gate faced its fair share of challenges this week, we have every confidence in the indomitable spirit of the BU Grounds team to have the pitches in prime condition for battle. Kick-off is set for 2 PM, so don’t miss out on the action!

For the second consecutive season, Camberley pays a visit to Chapel Gate, sitting hot on the heels of league leaders Havant with an impressive 29 points. Both teams have displayed exceptional form, with just one loss apiece this season. Camberley’s recent triumph over Brighton (50-14) is a testament to their formidable capabilities. Their strength in the scrum and lightning-quick wingers make them a force to be reckoned with.

Last season’s encounter saw the Lions narrowly edged out away but bouncing back with a spirited 20-17 victory at home. This time around, the Lions make just three changes, with Ryan Morrell, Ryan Woodford, and Reece Savage rejoining the lineup. Ben Meaden’s return at flyhalf signals a tactical shift, while Jordie Wayman’s shift to the right wing accommodates Morrell’s presence. Joe Martin steps into the lineup for Stan Vincent, and Woodford brings his expertise to the front line, with Jack Palmer providing support from the bench. A big forward heavy bench for the Lions just shows how strong the Camberley scrum has been. The Lions are going to have to give it 110% which we know they can to come away win.

The Nomads face an early kick off at 12.30pm on Havant’s 4G pitch, aiming to turn the tide after a string of inconsistent performances. Havant currently sits in 4th place, having secured four wins from six outings this season. The Nomads, on the other hand, have found themselves grappling with player availability issues, but over the last couple of games consistency with team selections shows a glimmer of hope on the horizon.

Havant’s reputation for expansive, fast-paced rugby on their artificial surface is well-known, but the expected wet conditions may level the playing field. This week, the Nomads welcome Brett Pointing and Dan Boer back into the fray, injecting fresh energy into the squad. Steve Mayes takes up a pivotal role as outside centre, while Brett Pointing fortifies the second row. The bench sees the inclusion of Tom Napier, Monty Philips, and Max Noble, offering a wealth of options for impact.

The Wanderers are set to face Ellingham & Ringwood, a team that’s been somewhat of an enigma this season due to unfulfilled fixtures. Recent additions, Ali Bennett and Pete Roberts, former Bournemouth players, have bolstered their ranks, adding an element of unpredictability to their lineup. Will we see them on the field against the Wanderers? Only time will tell.

In stark contrast, the Wanderers have seen their numbers surge, allowing them to field a full squad with some extra firepower in reserve. Led by Luke Haine, a blend of youthful vigor and seasoned experience will grace the field, promising an exciting clash.

With a mixture of young guns and wily veterans, the Wanderers are primed for a spirited battle. This game holds significance for the Wanderers as they continue their journey on the road. Kick-off is scheduled for 2:30 PM.

Please bear in mind that all matches are subject to pitch inspections. Recent heavy rainfall has turned Chapel Gate into a waterlogged arena, with other pitches facing similar conditions. We’re keeping a watchful eye on the weather forecast for Saturday morning. Stay tuned to our social media channels for timely updates on match statuses.

Match Previews 21/10/23

Lions vs. Horsham:

Saturday 21st October promises a gripping encounter as the Lions lock horns with Horsham in a battle to escape the clutches of the lower league stratum. Horsham, last season’s Regional 2SE champions, raised eyebrows with a memorable Papa Johns Cup run culminating in a Twickenham final. Their form this term, however, has yet to mirror those heights, though a hard-fought victory against Maidenhead last week will certainly inject much-needed confidence.

Both sides find themselves uncomfortably ensconced at the league’s base, an undesirable position for any rugby enthusiast. The ramifications of a win extend far beyond mere points; it’s a chance to vault several places and reignite their campaign. The Lions’ lineup mirrors the formidable squad that impressed against Brighton, with an infusion of fresh faces. The pack remains a rock-solid foundation, while returning star Harry Warr promises a resurgence in the backs. With Hancox back in his natural habitat at inside centre, and a reshuffle on the wings, this Lions ensemble is poised for redemption.

A particularly notable acquisition comes in the form of Lewis Dennett, a seasoned fly-half with a globetrotting rugby odyssey. Dennett’s experience in both the Championship and the Australian Shoot Shield brings an intriguing dimension to the Lions’ attack. On the bench, the return of Meaden alongside the formidable Napier and Martin serves as a potent reminder of the depth at the Lions’ disposal. Chapel Gate is set to be the crucible of a resurgence, as the Lions aim to build on their spirited performance at Brighton.

Nomads vs. Eastleigh:

The Nomads face off against Eastleigh, helmed by the former Lions maestro, Will Croker. The season’s start hasn’t been kind to either side, with both clubs tallying a solitary victory in five outings. Eastleigh’s strength at home is a formidable factor, even in the face of adversity. The Nomads, beset by injuries and availability issues, have struggled to field their optimal lineup. Yet, this challenge presents an opportunity to defy the odds against a traditionally imposing Eastleigh side.

The Nomads’ lineup sees a significant reshaping, with new additions and familiar faces bolstering the ranks. Crawshaw and ????, the latest recruits, promise to infuse fresh dynamism into the squad. The return of Leadbetter adds further experience to the mix. The Nomads are poised to present a significantly stronger front than the unit that fell short against Trojans. With a reinvigorated side, they’ll be eyeing mid-table consolidation as they enter the weekend hiatus.

Wanderers vs. Puddletown:

In their third outing this season, the Wanderers confront league leaders Puddletown in a bid to shrug off early setbacks. Puddletown, with two wins and a solitary defeat, enter the fray as the pace-setters. Meanwhile, the Wanderers, grappling with injuries and administrative hiccups, find themselves in 8th place, hampered by a 5-point deduction. An emphatic 60-point triumph over Oakmeadians signals Puddletown’s intent, setting the stage for a fiery showdown.

The Wanderers’ roster is a harmonious blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents, each eager to etch their mark on this encounter. With experienced heads guiding the charge, the Wanderers are poised to showcase their mettle against the table-toppers. As they gear up to face whatever Puddletown has in store, the Wanderers stand resolute in their quest to make a resounding statement.

Keep your eyes peeled on social media for our full team announcements tomorrow from 4pm.

Castlepoint Equipment Donation

The U13 squad at Bournemouth Rugby received a generous donation of new rugby equipment from Castlepoint Shopping Centre through their latest community engagement strategy. The U13s squad reached out to Castlepoint to engage with their latest community initiative. Castlepoint is celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year and as part of those celebrations supplied Bournemouth Rugby Club U13s equipment to support their ever growing Youth player squad.

John Willhoughby, one of the U13s coaches who sourced the community initiative with Castlepoint commented. “It was with great pleasure to receive the new kit from Castlepoint on Thursday 28th September 2023. A presentation of the new equipment was held at Bournemouth Rugby at Chapel Gate. The new equipment included tackle suits, speed training parachutes and rebound nets to help our players master their ever developing skills.” Jamie Shanks, Youth and Mini Chair also commented;

“It’s like Christmas has come early. We can’t thank Castlepoint enough for including us in this very generous community donation to enhance the rugby sporting experience at our club. The teams are really excited to have access to the new equipment and for us to form a partnership with Castlepont. As a community club we strive to engage with local businesses to assist with community sponsorship across our age grades. The benefits go so far in our club and this equipment does just that. We would all like to thank Castlepoint’s Centre Manager, David Pickett who also attended the presentation and handover adding “We are so pleased to have helped a wonderful local rugby team!”

If you are interested in playing or joining the Youth and Mini squad at Bournemouth Rugby Club on a Sunday from 9.30am please contact Gemma Buchanan at operations@bournemouth-rugby.co.uk or visit our website.

Nomads Look to Upset High-Flying Gosport & Fareham in Weekend Clash

The Nomads are gearing up to face off against the formidable Gosport & Fareham side this weekend. The Gosport outfit has been in blistering form this season, securing victory in all three matches with bonus point wins, most notably a dominant 66-10 triumph over the resilient Havant last week.

This encounter poses a significant challenge for the Nomads, who have experienced a mixed start to their campaign, claiming just one win out of three. The squad has grappled with bouts of underperformance and gruelling injuries, contributing to their uneven form in the early stages of the season.

In their last fixture against Bognor, the Nomads showcased glimpses of a potential turnaround, demonstrating newfound resolve and determination. With their sights set on the league leaders, they are determined to build on this positive momentum.

The Nomads will be fielding a largely unchanged lineup from the squad that secured victory against Bognor. Notable additions include Joe Desmond, who will be taking the reins at No. 8, and Anthony Fitch, who steps in at fly half. Both players are returning to action, eager to gain valuable game time and make an impact on the field.

Another crucial returnee is Connor Moore, who rejoins the Nomads after a stint with the Lions Team, where he admirably filled in for the injured Harry Warr. Moore brings with him a wealth of experience gained from his time with the Lions, and he is determined to display his enhanced skill set with the Nomads.

Kick-off is scheduled for 3pm at Dolphin Crescent, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 2HE. The Nomads faithful are expected to make the short trip down the M27 to rally behind their team as they embark on this challenging encounter.

The clash between the Nomads and Gosport & Fareham promises to be a riveting showdown, with both teams hungry for victory. Gosport wanting to continue their winning streak and our Nomads to make a statement to the rest of the league.

Youth & Mini September 2023

Starting with some sad news this week. It is with a heavy heart that I have to inform you of this news today. With great sadness Richard Maddrell one of our under 9s parents and father to Brodie Madrell sadly passed away on Tuesday 19th September. It has come to us all as a massive shock to our rugby family as you can imagine.

Richard was a larger than life character and always brought brightness and a big smile on those grey rugby days to our under 9s. A passionate Aussie that supported the club and coaches you will be dearly missed our friend. Our prayers are with Chantel, Brodie and the family at this time.

When one of the pride is hurting we all come together so please join us in a 1 minute clap this Saturday before the match.

It seems that training has been going on forever this month with our mini teams and from next week it’s going to be exciting to see what the Mini teams have been putting into practice as we head away for the next 3 weeks. The U9s have achieved a lot since the start of the season as they continue their journey into contact and I’m also witnessing some excellent rugby across all age groups.

There feels like a genuine buzz around the Y&M this season so far and what I’m seeing in terms of TREDs (Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship) is music to my ears. The Youth teams (13-16) have been hard at work in training and several fixtures. The U13 had a tri-fixture last week against Dorchester and Oaks. You can certainly see what the coaching team have been working on in terms of inclusivity, a key ingredient in our Y&M mandate. In addition we’ve seen some great results from U14, 15 and U16 all done in a competitive but fair spirit. Let’s keep the momentum up and roll onto next week.

We’ve had some challenging conditions over the last few weeks including the Armageddon the other week of 4 inches of rain. I’d like to thank BU grounds team for preparing the pitches and ensuring we stay open for training and our Sunday sessions.

There are areas we want to develop though. Girls Rugby recruitment across our age groups is low and we are driven to offer an outstanding coaching product. The Y&M team are also working on how we define girls rugby at BRFC and how we can engage with our affiliate partnership with Bath Rugby to drive this forward. More exciting news coming soon!

This year we’ve been listening to our players and one of the areas we want to ensure we deliver is the fun factor of rugby so in October we are running a Super Hero Sunday (1st) and a Halloween Rugby Zombie Apocalypse Special. Watch out for the pictures on social.

We are also looking for sponsorship this month with our cash for kids fundraising. If you would like to donate please come and see me. We are also looking for sponsors to get involved with Y&M. Our April 2024 festival is in need of a primary sponsor. Again, come and speak to me if this is something you can provide.

And finally, I’d like to thank the new Steering Group team for their commitment last month (Chris Gould, Sian Reid, Andy Taylor, Simon Hortrop, Catherine Robers, Greg Reid). Their passion and commitment mirrors the culture we are building within the Y&M squads.

Until next time… Enjoy the rugby.

Jamie Shanks

Y&M Chair

Bournemouth Welcome Back Returning Players

As we gear up for another thrilling week of matches, teams are experiencing a welcome wave of changes, but this time it’s not due to injuries. The Lions, with six alterations to their lineup, are set to face off against Tunbridge Wells, a formidable opponent in National Level Five. Meanwhile, the Nomads, with only five players remaining from their previous match, are eager to turn their season around against Bognor. The Wanderers, bolstered by returning players, are ready to take on Oakmeadians at Canford School.

Lions vs. Tunbridge Wells: Clash of Titans

The Lions, following a disappointing performance against Havant, have been strengthening their pack. With Joe Martin and Joe Desmond returning to the 2nd row, the scrummaging prowess is set to hit new heights. Young gun Stan Vincent gets the nod at No8, and Ryan Woodford returns as tighthead, fortifying the forward line. In the backs, there are no changes, but the bench sees a fresh look with the return of Anthony Fitch, Connor Mccaffrey, and the indomitable Luca Firetto. With an eye on a week off, the Lions are eager to display their true potential on the field.

Nomads Eyeing Redemption Against Bognor

The Nomads, still smarting from a narrow loss to New Milton, are out to set the record straight against Bognor. Despite missing several key players last week, their performance left opponents and onlookers wondering about their potential at full strength. With a squad nearing its best, the Nomads are geared up for a spirited contest against their newly promoted adversaries.

Wanderers Relishing Opportunity at Canford School

The Wanderers, faced with a venue change, are undaunted as they prepare to face Oakmeadians. Having previously lost out on points due to player availability, the Wanderers are determined to seize this opportunity and make a resounding statement in their league. With returning players infusing fresh energy, the Wanderers are poised for a formidable showing.

As the three teams prepare to take the field, we are in for a treat this week. With returning players and strategic tweaks, each team is set on leaving a lasting impression in their respective leagues. Expectations run high as the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the rugby saga. Keep your eyes peeled on social media for full squad announcement.

Youth Player of the Month, Dylan from U12’s

Congratulations to Dylan, a valued member of our club’s U12 age group. As coaches, we couldn’t be prouder of the remarkable journey we’ve witnessed Dylan embark upon since the U6 age group. Over time, he has blossomed into a young rugby player who thrives on the competitive spirit of contact rugby.
Dylan’s evolution into one of the standout players within our group has been truly impressive. Making the decision to honor him with this award was no easy task, given the abundance of talent in our team. Dylan is not only a skilled player but also a polite and popular presence among his peers. He often assumes the role of the defensive enforcer, fearlessly taking on opponents who are far bigger in stature, showcasing a level of technical prowess that belies his young age.
What sets Dylan apart is not only his prowess on the field but also his infectious enthusiasm. He approaches every game with confidence and wholeheartedly immerses himself in the action.
Dylan’s exceptional contributions have earned him several of the age group’s seasonal awards, a testament to his indispensable role in helping the team achieve its goals.
Recently, we had the pleasure of witnessing Dylan provide valuable feedback to the coaching group on his personal goals for the season. This aligns perfectly with our Youth & Minis Empowering Youth Voices initiative, which seeks to develop the whole player, not just their playing abilities. With his dedication and determination, there’s no doubt that Dylan will surpass his goals and continue to excel.
Keep up the fantastic work, Dylan! Your dedication and passion are an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to watching you achieve even greater things in the future.

Exciting New Partnerships and Youth Development Grant for Bournemouth Wheelchair Rugby

Bournemouth Wheelchair Rugby is thrilled to announce the addition of EchoTown Studios and Masham Court Hotel to our esteemed list of supporting partners for the upcoming season. Their generous contributions will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the growth and success of our club.

Following in the footsteps of our dedicated main sponsor, Grinning Dog Records, EchoTown Studios steps up to the plate to continue the legacy of support. Owners Nick and Grace Capaldi have been steadfast advocates for the team over the past four years. Grace Capaldi expresses her pride in this enduring partnership, saying, “We are proud to still be a part of supporting our local wheelchair rugby team and look forward to watching the club progress in the coming year. Go Lions!”

We are equally elated to welcome Masham Court Hotel as a first-time partner. Jane Langridge, Business Development Manager, shares her excitement: “The Marsham Court is excited to support the Bournemouth Wheelchair Rugby Team this season. As one of the most accessible hotels in the UK, we are passionate about accessibility and inclusivity for all. We are looking forward to building a strong connection with the club and its members.”

In addition to these partnerships, we are delighted to announce that we have once again secured a grant from the BCP Youth Fund. This grant will significantly contribute to the ongoing development of our youth team, the Cubs, building on the successes of the previous year.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all our partner organisations for their unwavering support. We eagerly anticipate the opportunities to collaborate and grow together in the year ahead.

Bournemouth Wheelchair Rugby is a dynamic and flourishing sport in Dorset, and we proudly stand as the sole club in the region. We extend a warm welcome to all individuals with physical disabilities, regardless of wheelchair use status, to come and give our sport a try. Our senior team trains on Sundays between 10am and 1pm at Rossmore Leisure Centre, followed by our juniors until 3pm. Anyone aged 8 and above (with no upper age limit), regardless of gender, is welcome. New players can enjoy four free taster sessions. We also extend an invitation to volunteers interested in assisting with physiotherapy, coaching, and other support roles.

Note: Please be aware that we are currently exploring options to change the day and times of our training sessions. Don’t let this deter you – get in touch!

Roaring Challenges Await Lions as They Face Havant Early Flyers

The Lions are set to take on the early league flyers, Havant, in what promises to be a nail-biting encounter. Kick-off is slated for 2:30 pm.

However, the Lions are grappling with a wave of challenges, struggling to find stability within their ranks. With players dispersing to universities across the country, coupled with injuries and unavailability, the line-up that faced Marlborough has been considerably depleted. The absentees include Joe Desmond, Johnathan Young, Josh Sanchez, Antony Fitch, Dean Smith, Ollie Vincent, Ryan Woodford, and Ben Goodall.

Yet, amidst the setbacks, the Lions receive a much-needed boost with the return of the Palmer brothers. Jack Palmer will be anchoring the scrum as a loose head, while Sam Palmer takes his place on the bench. Adding to the reinforcement is Robert Heath, marking his comeback for the Lions in what promises to be an electrifying season debut.

Newcomer Reece Savage is set to make a grand entrance into Bournemouth Rugby, adding a fresh dynamic to the team. Meanwhile, Connor Moore, following two stellar appearances off the bench, earns his first start as scrum half in lieu of the still sidelined Harry Warr. The pack will see the likes of Frederick Harding & Matt Durkin coming in, Harry Costello comes in as fly half, and Stan Vincent on the bench, injecting renewed vigor into the team.

Though the pack experiences a whirlwind of changes, the backline retains a more steadfast formation from the previous week.

Havant, perennial contenders, are renowned for their disciplined and well-coordinated play. Their recent tussle with Brighton saw them seize control in the opening 25 minutes, though they allowed Brighton to claw back. Havant clinched victory after an impressive second-half resurgence, demonstrating their mettle and fortitude.

The Lions must steel themselves in defence, especially in the initial quarter, as Havant are known to launch a relentless assault from the whistle. Opportunities will arise, and the Lions must seize every moment, shoring up discipline and minimizing unforced errors.

Meanwhile, the Nomads prepare to host local rivals New Milton at Chapel Gate. Both teams are hungry for redemption following challenging season openers. A closely contested battle is anticipated, with victory potentially swinging in either direction.

The Wanderers, on the other hand, continue their road stint, facing off against Sherborne on the Dorset-Wiltshire border. Sherborne enters the fray with a week’s rest, benefiting from a walkover against Ellingham & Ringwood. The Wanderers, seeking atonement for their previous outing against SWANS, are determined to assert their dominance against the yet untested Sherborne squad.

As September draws to a close, all Bournemouth teams grapple with inconsistency, beset by injuries, weddings, unavailability, and university commitments. With the month’s end on the horizon, hopes run high for the emergence of stability, propelling these teams up the league tables. The journey ahead promises to be nothing short of exhilarating.

Lionesses Return to Chapel Gate to make the Pride Complete

Bournemouth Rugby Welcomes Back Ladies Rugby to Chapel Gate

Bournemouth, September 25th, 2023 — Bournemouth Rugby is thrilled to announce the return of Ladies Rugby to Chapel Gate, starting this Monday, September 25th. This marks a significant milestone in the club’s history as they reintroduce this dynamic facet of the sport.

Training Schedule:

Mondays: 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Fridays: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Training is free for the first four weeks, after this a Bournemouth Rugby Membership will be required. Membership will include training sessions and playing kit. Training will take place at Chapel Gate, BU Campus by Bournemouth Airport.

The ladies’ team is set to benefit from a robust coaching lineup, featuring Jilly McGuiness, Kat Marsh, and the highly esteemed Houghton Campbell. Campbell, with a wealth of experience, including managing and coaching the 7’s team for the Jamaican National Team and BU Ladies, brings invaluable expertise to the table.

A warm welcome is extended to the BU Ladies, who will be joining forces with the Bournemouth Ladies Team. This collaboration promises to strengthen the team even further, showcasing the unity within the Bournemouth Rugby community.

Exciting times lie ahead for the ladies, as they gear up for a series of friendly matches throughout the season. This strategic move is in preparation for their entry into a league during the 2024/2025 season, a milestone that underscores the commitment of the team to excel and compete at the highest level.

Looking even further ahead, the 2024/2025 season will also see the reintroduction of girls’ rugby at Bournemouth. This initiative is part of a broader effort to establish a comprehensive pathway for girls and ladies in rugby, starting as early as 3 years old and continuing into adulthood.

Bournemouth Rugby is poised to play a leading role in the development of the female game in the area, riding the wave of success that Ladies Rugby has enjoyed across the UK, particularly following the resounding achievements of the sport in the Rugby World Cup.

For more information contact operations@bournemouth-rugby.co.uk or updates, stay connected with Bournemouth Rugby on social media and our official website.