Letter from the Chairman

Willenhall RUFC

Newsletter I S S U E 8 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5

Welcome to the February Willenhall RUFC

newsletter.

We have plenty of events planned

throughout this year at the club something for

everyone!!

Deadline for articles for

the next newsletter is

28th February

email -

media@

willenhallrufc.co.uk

Members, Congratulations to all our teams. As the First XV pass the half-way point of the season, we can reflect on our league position with mixed views. Some excellent performances and a few lapses in concentration have placed us half way up the league table. A number of lost games that should have been won and things could be a lot different. Consistency is the key, the training staff have worked tirelessly on this however the commitment must come from the players. Selection has shown that players who train, get the chance to represent the club at first team level, this must be the goal of every player. The use of outside guest coaches will continue to the end of the season. Winter training has now ended at Cheslyn Hay, and training resumes at the club on Tuesdays. There is no reason why we should lose any more games this season despite not having the home advantage. We have a cup final to win and I’m sure that everyone wants to be part of that success. A good run of results in the league will give us a great boost of confidence going into the final. Injuries have meant that many of the players who were earmarked for 3 XV Development team have had to step up to play the in second team. On Saturday the majority of the team were under 20 years old, and produced a sound victory against Burntwood 2nd XV. No doubt these players will be putting pressure on the 1st XV places next season. The Flogs who have now temporarily become our 3rd XV have put some fine performances in, and continue to hold their own against selected opposition. It’s good to see they have taken the initiative to organise a curry night this Friday, to raise funds for their forthcoming tour. Other teams could learn something here, please give them you support. It was good to see the return of our Veteran XV under the leadership of Martin Burford – White. Many former players turned up for a run out. We intend this to continue for the rest of the season.. The result against Tamworth Vets resulted in a narrow defeat, however Tamworth turn out a regular vets side, I look forward to the return game. Continued page 2

P A G E 2

Next Fixtures

7th February 2015

2 Home Games this

weekend

Willenhall 1st v Newcastle

Willenhall 3rd v Newcastle

And we have the 2nds

playing Away v Newcastle

W I L L E N H A L L

R U F C

N E W S L E T T E R

W I L L E N H A L L R U F C N E W S L E T T E R

My intention is to hold a veteran’s festival at the end of next season to kick off our 50th anniversary celebrations. Improvement work on the clubhouse has slowed down for a number of reasons. A number of unexpected problems like the power cable failure took priority and the current work load of existing committee members unable to commit time. We are desperately seeking someone with building experience that can scope out a number of projects for completion during the close season. I am pleased to announce that we have secured the Senior County, Colts and Under 15 finals. This is a great honour for us and gives us the opportunity to show what a great club we have to our visitors. The social events so far have been well attended, Tom Jones night, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve were all great successes with everyone having a good time. It was heart-warming to see that the Children’s Christmas Party was well organised by a number of volunteers, which continues the great tradition we have at Willenhall. The social calendar is beginning to fill up with a number of tribute acts already booked – see notice board. The Flogs curry night is followed by the Volunteers Evening who hosts Craig Halfords Meat Loaf tribute. Preparations are now being made for the Annual Ball. 150 places are available on tables of 10. Tickets will be on sale this week. It is essential that tickets are purchased and paid for before the 31st of March. They are many options for payment. Cash, cheque or card. Some may wish to pay in weekly instalments. This can be done through me or any committee member - see notice board for details. We are a successful club both on and off the field. Let’s ensure it continues. Regards Martyn Loach Chairman 07970 716189

6th February - Flogs Fundraiser Curry Night

plus Opening game of the 6 Nations

Wales v England

P A G E 3 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5

F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5

Asda Bag Pack

A number of players from our mini/midi section held a bag pack at Asda Bloxwich to raise funds for their respective teams in total £560 was raised which was divided across U7, U8, U9 and U12.

Thank to all the Players and Parents that helped out!!

Team Outing Yet again our Under 13’s went along to Leicester Tigers to watch the game v Northampton for a team day out. No doubt there will be another visit to Welford Road for the lads before the end of the season. However as a Saracens supporter I think Allianz would be a far better choice!!!

RBS 6 Nations

Don’t forget all 6 Nations games are live in the club house throughout February/

March

www.willenhallrufc.co.uk

UPCOMING EVENTS

6th February - Flogs Curry Night Fundraisier 7th February - Ex Players Open Invitation Day

13th March - Volunteer Evening (Meat Loaf Tribute)

19th April - County U15's Final 25th April - Colts County Cup Final 25th April - Senior County Cup Final

2nd & 3rd May - Forties Weekend 9th May - Presidents Day 15th May - Junior Presentation Night. 16th May - Summer Ball

27th June - Armed Forces Day

4th September - Tom Jones Tribute

30th October - Halloween Night

20th November - Neil Diamond Tribute

.

Useful Links

www.willenhallrufc.co.uk

www.staffsrfu.com

www.rbs6nations.com

www.rfu.com

www.rugbyworldcup.com