President's Foreword
Once again a new season is upon us and I look forward with great anticipation and confidence to seeing games played in the adventurous style for which Sandal has become noted throughout all age groups. We hope to field three senior sides on a regular basis as well as a host of other teams from the Academy down to the youngest minis. The game of rugby is for all ages, shapes and sizes as well as for both genders. We have expert coaching teams throughout the club and excellent facilities for playing and celebrating. Please encourage players to come down and join in.
On the social front we will be holding the usual Patrons’ lunches to which you are all cordially invited. It would be beneficial if we could host a lunch at all the home fixtures in order to boost both support for our teams and income for the club. Could you organise a table of ten for a lunch? If so please see Peter Tunningley. During the World Cup we plan to have the main games on the big screen with, I hope, abundant support for all four home teams.
On the playing front I would urge all our players to ‘enjoy’ their games and feel free to express their talents within the framework of the team. The growing tendency in some clubs to play ten-man rugby based around a driving maul (I use the term ‘driving’ loosely as the maul often goes sideways before finding first gear and a top speed of 2 mph) is born out of fear to make a mistake. The current All Black’s side has demonstrated the way to play fast, skilful and powerful rugby – the result of innate ability, good coaching and self-belief. I trust Sandal teams will follow suit.
During the last World Cup year the RFU placed the emphasis on recruiting youngsters to join the game, with great success. This time they are targeting adults. Not just as players but as administrators, coaches and helpers. This year we have received enormous help from stalwart members who have put time and effort into streamlining overhead costs, improving facilities and implementing control systems. My gratitude and thanks go to all those who help in any way to promote the interests of the club. If I might parody the words of another President;
‘And so, my fellow members: ask not what your club can do for you – ask what you can do for the your club’ (John F Kennedy).
Barry Brindley
President
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