Category: Rugby News

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.

Clash of Titans at Chapel Gate!

In a long-awaited face-off, the Bournemouth Lions are set to lock horns with the newly promoted Marlborough, rekindling a rivalry that has lain dormant for years. This clash promises to be a spectacle across Dorset & Wilts as the only two teams from Dorset and Wilts in the league.

Fresh from a hard-fought battle with Bracknell last weekend, the Lions are hungry for redemption. They’re not just seeking a win; they’re on a mission to re-establish themselves as a powerhouse in the league. Despite a few players nursing injuries, the return of key figures has injected a new wave of hope into the squad.

A special Lion’s den welcome awaits Ryan Woodford and Euan Tremlett, both poised to make their debut. Their raw energy and unbridled determination could be the game-changer that propels the Lions to a resounding victory.

Head Coach Dan Connolly’s side have put in hours on the training ground, dissecting every detail of their previous encounter with Bracknell. The return of Johny Young, Ben Goodall, and Joe Desmond is expected to shore up the scrum, an area that showed vulnerability in their last match. In the backline, Grant Hancox’s shift to scrum half, filling the void left by the still-injured Harry Warr, showcases the adaptability of this Lions squad. Adding to the excitement is the inclusion of Josh Sanchez, a rising star and the son of former coach and player John Sanchez.

The Lions’ game plan is clear: maintain their attacking flair while bolstering their defence to keep Marlborough at bay. Marlborough, having secured one victory out of two games this season, bring a mix of confidence and determination. Their performance at home against Brighton demonstrated their potential, but a loss away to Tunbridge Wells serves as a reminder of the challenges ahead. With Viliame Waqanidrola and Joe Pittams showcasing their prowess in recent matches, Marlborough arrives with a point to prove.

🕒 Kick-off is set for 3 PM at the electrifying Chapel Gate. 🕒

But that’s not all; the excitement spills over to the Nomads and Wanderers as they kick off their league seasons. The Nomads embark on a road trip to face Andover in what promises to be an epic battle. Meanwhile, the Wanderers venture away to take on a fired-up Swans squad, hungry for redemption after a grueling pre-season clash against none other than Bournemouth. Both Nomads and Wanderers, much like the Lions, are battling through pre-season injuries, yet they rally their strength in numbers to field three formidable sides.

Expect nothing short of fireworks as these spirited teams ignite the league season. The Chapel Gate showdown is only the beginning of what promises to be a sensational weekend of Rugby. Kick off for Nomads and Wanderers is at 3pm.

Head Coach Dan Connolly Sets the Stage for Bracknell Showdown

As the Lions gear up for their clash against Bracknell, Head Coach Dan Connolly took a moment to reflect on the team’s recent performance and offer insight into the upcoming match. The squad’s preseason encounter with Maidenhead served as a litmus test for Connolly and his coaching staff. “It provided a great benchmark for our preseason,” Connolly remarked. “We saw some great advances in our play, but it also highlighted areas that require improvement.”

One of the challenges faced by Connolly and his team is availability due to injury which has lead to inconsistency in fielding the same match-winning lineup. “It’s frustrating that we’ve not been able to field the same match-winning team,” Connolly acknowledged. “However, the players that have stepped up have demonstrated the strength in depth that we have at the club.”

The fierce competition for positions has been a driving force behind the team’s progress. Connolly emphasized, “These players have trained hard to be in contention for the shirt. They’ve shown their dedication and commitment, and I’m confident they’ll seize any opportunity that comes their way to make the selection next week even harder.”

With a squad brimming with talent and determination, Bournemouth Rugby enters the Bracknell clash with a sense of purpose and resolve. Connolly and his coaching staff have been meticulously preparing the team, focusing on honing their strengths and addressing areas of improvement identified in the Maidenhead encounter.

Connolly’s comments reflect a coach who recognizes the potential within his team and appreciates the competitive spirit that drives them forward. As the anticipation builds for the upcoming showdown, supporters of Bournemouth Rugby can look forward to an electrifying match that promises skill, determination, and a testament to the depth of talent within the club.

Driving Forward Rugby Forward in 2023/24

Bournemouth Rugby is brimming with excitement and anticipation for the 2023/24 season. We are incredibly proud of the progress and achievements we have made in our youth and mini programmes, thanks to the exceptional leadership of Greg Pike as the Youth and Mini Chair. We embrace the future as a club and I’m thrilled to announce some significant structural changes and appointments. These changes will ensure that we continue to provide an exceptional rugby experience while prioritising the safety, welfare, and development of our young players within our community. First and foremost, I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Greg Pike for his outstanding dedication and unwavering commitment during his tenure as the Youth and Mini Chair. Greg’s hard work and tireless efforts have significantly contributed to the consistency and continual management of our youth rugby programmes. Greg will continue to be an invaluable member of our Executive Committee, serving as Co-Vice Chair and assuming the new role of Director of Youth Rugby. Driving forward… This is probably the worst kept secret in the club over the summer so I’d like to take this opportunity to introduce myself and more importantly to clarify a few things and set a thought with you for the this season…. After the season ended I was voted in to Chair of the Youth and Mini teams at Bournemouth Rugby. This is a tremendous honour for me. We have a huge amount of talented and dedicated people within the club and to be asked to represent this role within the club is indeed something I’m extremely proud of. I have pride in our club, what we achieve as volunteers and how we come together to embrace one of the best sports in the world. We have a huge opportunity at our Bournemouth Rugby in creating a lasting impact and legacy with the lives of young players. Our agenda is to continue the support for the sport, dedication to fostering growth and development, and a commitment to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all participants, coaches, players, parents and carers. It’s time to build on our values. Greg Pike has been the backbone for the Youth and Mini’s section for the last 9 years. I’d like to personally thank Greg for his hard work over the years for his tireless commitment. I’ve personally been involved with Bournemouth Rugby for number of years and supported the club at first team level in terms of sponsorship before Covid hit. Youth and mini rugby plays a crucial role in shaping young individuals both on and off the field and feeds those teams in the future. Having two young girls myself (both players) it’s even more evident these days youngsters need to find purpose and something they are passionate about. A place that creates happiness. In addition to my new role I also coach the under 9s alongside a dedicated and passionate team of coaches (you’ve probably heard us roar on a Sunday!). Rugby instils life values such as teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline, and sportsmanship, while also promoting physical fitness. confidence and mental resilience. What’s not to love about it. By taking on the role of Y&M Chair we have the opportunity to be at the forefront of this transformative journey for countless young players and provide the support of a high quality coaching eco-system the club provides. Something I’m very serious about, especially in terms of girls rugby and a desire to elevate this opportunity. One of the primary responsibilities as Chair is to create an environment that encourages participation and inclusivity. Our aim along with a new steering group we have formed will involve developing programmes with the age groups that cater to players of all skill levels. We want to ensure every young person has the opportunity to engage with rugby and experience the joy of the sport and the benefits of our rugby family which we will continually promote. By promoting diversity and actively working to eliminate barriers to entry, we can help shape a rugby community here at Bournemouth Rugby that is welcoming and accessible to all that everyone wants to be part of. My objective is to collaborate with all our coaches, managers, parents and other stakeholders to establish a strong support network for the youth and mini players. Build upon our achievement we are all proud of and take our Y&M section to the next level we are all proud of as a club. Our aim is to provide a safe environment, building strong relationships with local schools, sports clubs and the community. Our vision is to build a first class Y&M section that becomes the stepping stone for future opportunity. It’s a long term strategy you are part of so join us on this journey. Above all, we want to create a sense of belonging and camaraderie among participants within our youth and mini squad. Have fun, create friendships and be the catalyst for amazing memories. The new season started at the weekend and it was a weekend of amazing energy at the club. I was delighted to personally meet so many of you at the gates and look forward to meeting you all in person and welcoming you to an exciting season at the club. So here is my final thought… Bring those earplugs.. Let’s stop purring, let’s make our pride Roar!

Bournemouth Wheelchair Rugby’s Resilience and Vision for the Upcoming Season

As we embrace a new season, Bournemouth Wheelchair Rugby is poised for an exciting journey filled with challenges, growth, and inspiring opportunities. With our senior, youth teams ready to hit the court, let’s delve into what’s in store for our remarkable club.

Our 5s team recently concluded a grueling season in the WR5s Premiership league, marked by fierce competition against teams like the Leicester Tigers and Northampton Saints, featuring GB Squad players. Although the season was demanding and our team faced its share of setbacks, it’s with unwavering determination that we look ahead. Regrettably, the challenges led to our relegation to the Championship division. However, we view this as an opportunity for renewal and growth. The Championship promises to be an excellent level to nurture new talent and introduce more players to our beloved sport.

Looking ahead, Bournemouth Wheelchair Rugby is gearing up for an exhilarating year filled with potential. We’re committed to promoting and expanding our beloved sport throughout the county, and we’re pleased to announce some exciting developments for our Cubs team (ages 8-17). Thanks to funding from the BCP Youth Fund, we’re set to embark on a thrilling journey of events and friendly matches, engaging our youth players as well as those from neighboring teams.

We’re immensely grateful for the support of our new corporate partners, EchoTown Studios and Masham Court Hotel. Their backing is instrumental in propelling our club forward. However, the journey ahead is long, and we’re actively seeking new partners who wish to join us in this dynamic and growing sport. If you share our passion and vision, don’t hesitate to reach out to us about partnership opportunities.

At Bournemouth Wheelchair Rugby, we believe in inclusivity and diversity. We extend an open invitation to individuals of all ages and genders with any type of physical disability to come and experience the thrill of our sport. Our senior team trains every Sunday between 10 am and 1 pm at Rossmore Leisure Centre, followed by our juniors until 3 pm. To encourage newcomers, we offer four free taster sessions. We welcome volunteers who can contribute to our team’s success through physiotherapy, coaching, or lending a helping hand with various tasks.

As we embark on this new season, Bournemouth Wheelchair Rugby stands strong, driven by resilience and a vision for the future. We invite you to join us on this inspiring journey as we continue to foster a supportive community and embrace the exhilarating world of wheelchair rugby. Together, we’ll reach new heights and inspire the world through our passion for the game.