Season: 2019-2020
Summary
The second season of capturing as we go. The Men’s 1st XV dropped down a league to L2SE, the Men’s 2 reverted to Sussex 1 from the Zoo League. The Beef stayed where they were.
The Women’s 1st remained in the Championship 1 South and the Women’s 2nd XV also remained in their league.
- Playing Highlights
- Men’s 1st and 2nd XV
- Women’s 1st XV
- Women’s 2nd XV
- Men’s 3rd XV
- April 2020
- March 2020
- February 2020
- January 2020
- December 2019
- November 2019
- October 2019
- September 2019
- August 2019
- Playing Honours
- Season Images
- Club Highlights
- Club Honours
- President’s Office
- Committee
- AGM
- Handbook and Programmes
Introduction
2019-2020 is the second season where we are capturing history as it happens and so this will be a different format to most, but the same as 2018-2019.
The season will be split by month with August having the pre-season details and May the post-season. If we do any summer programmes then we can also add those. In the same format as the years within the decade we will list most recent first. Content will be posted in the month received if it covers several months or the month to which it refers if it is only one.
The competitions were as the table below:
| Team | League / Merit Table | RFU Cup | Sussex Cup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mens 1st XV | London South East 2 | London & SE Intermediate Cup | Bob Rogers Cup |
| Mens 2nd XV | Zoo Sports Shield Division 3 | ||
| Mens 3rd XV | Sussex 3 West | ||
| Mens 3rd XV | Sussex Division 3 West | ||
| Womens 1st XV | Womens Championship South Level 2 | ||
| Womens 2nd XV | Womens NC South East 2 |
Playing Highlights
Men’s 1st and 2nd XV
Squad Photo
Results
| Date | Result | Hove Score | Opp Score | Location | Competition | Opponent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14/09/2019 | Won | 21 | 16 | Home | L2SE | Old Alleynian |
| 21/09/2019 | Lost | 8 | 34 | Away | L2SE | Deal & Betteshanger |
| 28/09/2019 | Won | 31 | 28 | Home | L2SE | Charlton Park |
| 05/10/2019 | Won | 62 | 12 | Away | L2SE | Maidstone |
| 19/10/2019 | Won | 27 | 22 | Home | L2SE | Crowborough |
| 26/10/2019 | Won | 15 | 12 | Away | L2SE | Gravesend |
| 09/11/2019 | Won | 36 | 7 | Home | L2SE | Dover |
| 16/11/2019 | Lost | 25 | 38 | Away | L2SE | Old Colfeian |
| 23/11/2019 | Won | 50 | 0 | Home | L2SE | Thanet Wanderers |
| 30/11/2019 | Won | 26 | 19 | Home | Cup | Brighton |
| 07/12/2019 | Won | 24 | 10 | Away | L2SE | Beccehamian |
| 14/12/2019 | Lost | 12 | 19 | Home | L2SE | Haywards Heath |
| 04/01/2020 | Lost | 55 | 0 | Away | Cup | Farnham |
| 11/01/2020 | Lost | 13 | 19 | Home | L2SE | Deal & Betteshanger |
| 18/01/2020 | Lost | 55 | 24 | Away | L2SE | Charlton Park |
| 25/01/2020 | Won (HWO) | Home | L2SE | Maidstone | ||
| 01/02/2020 | Lost | 17 | 23 | Away | L2SE | Crowborough |
| 08/02/2020 | Won | 24 | 17 | Home | Cup | Horsham II |
| 15/02/2020 | Postponed | Home | L2SE | Gravesend | ||
| 22/02/2020 | Lost | 12 | 20 | Away | L2SE | Dover |
| 29/02/2020 | Lost | 14 | 30 | Home | L2SE | Old Colfeian |
| 07/03/2020 | Won (Rescheduled) | 22 | 15 | Home | L2SE | Gravesend |
| 21/03/2020 | Postponed (Corona Virus) | Away | L2SE | Thanet Wanderers | ||
| 28/03/2020 | Postponed (Corona Virus) | Home | L2SE | Beccehamian | ||
| 04/04/2020 | Postponed (Corona Virus) | Away | L2SE | Haywards Heath | ||
| 18/04/2020 | Postponed (Corona Virus) | Home | L2SE | Old Alleynian | ||
| Played | 18 | |||||
| Won | 10 | |||||
| Drawn | 0 | |||||
| Lost | 8 | |||||
| Result Not Known / Cancelled | 5 | |||||
| Home Games Played | 10 | |||||
| Away Games Played | 8 | |||||
| Highest Points For | 62 | |||||
| Lowest Points For | 8 | |||||
| Highest Points Against | 38 | |||||
| Lowest Points Against | 0 | |||||
| Highest Winning Margin | 50 | |||||
| Highest Losing Margin | 26 |
Table – London 2 South East
| # | Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Points For | Points Against | Points Difference | Try Bonus | Losing Bonus | Points | Adjustments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Old Colfeian | 18 | 13 | 1 | 4 | 506 | 332 | 174 | 12 | 2 | 68 | |
| 2 | Haywards Heath | 16 | 14 | 0 | 2 | 416 | 202 | 214 | 8 | 0 | 64 | |
| 3 | Old Alleynian | 18 | 12 | 0 | 6 | 492 | 313 | 179 | 8 | 4 | 60 | |
| 4 | Charlton Park | 18 | 11 | 0 | 7 | 521 | 326 | 195 | 10 | 5 | 59 | |
| 5 | Crowborough | 18 | 10 | 0 | 8 | 419 | 326 | 93 | 8 | 5 | 53 | |
| 6 | Hove | 18 | 10 | 0 | 8 | 413 | 360 | 53 | 6 | 3 | 50 | |
| 7 | Gravesend | 18 | 9 | 1 | 8 | 401 | 371 | 30 | 6 | 5 | 49 | |
| 8 | Deal & Betteshanger | 18 | 9 | 0 | 9 | 403 | 428 | -25 | 7 | 3 | 46 | |
| 9 | Beccehamian | 18 | 7 | 0 | 11 | 358 | 462 | -104 | 5 | 2 | 35 | |
| 10 | Thanet Wanderes | 17 | 5 | 0 | 12 | 335 | 429 | -94 | 6 | 3 | 29 | |
| 11 | Dover | 18 | 5 | 0 | 13 | 324 | 508 | -184 | 5 | 3 | 28 | |
| 12 | Maidstone | 17 | 0 | 0 | 17 | 134 | 665 | -531 | 0 | 1 | -4 | -5 |
Season Report by Martin MacDonald
It’s fair to say that this is a real period of uncertainty, one that many of us have never faced. The current situation with the coronavirus outbreak is affecting millions of people’s lives, which makes it difficult to look forward to anything in the future, however, we can take solace from the fact that we are all in this together and when it is over, we will no doubt appreciate the luxury of meeting up with our mates, having dinners or playing a team sport. Now more than ever, the support from the #hovefamily is extremely important.
With that being said, I wanted to take the opportunity to give a review of our season for the men’s 1XV and 2XV on and off the field.
Preseason 2019 started in May, off the field at least. New sponsors came on board, Apex group, Cin Cin, Baxter & Hanks and Persil all committed to the 2019/20 season. In addition to this, we retained the support of a number of other sponsors notably, Property Moves, Rix & Kay, T Reeves, Cardens, Latino America, Uncle Sam’s and Newport Paper. Without these sponsors, it would be very difficult for the club to survive and I would like to personally thank all of them for their support this season, we hope to continue these relationships in the future.
Further work was also done on the kit/stash front. Phil Dugard, with the support of the women’s section created a relationship with Intersport. They created a bespoke kit package which could be purchased online for the senior men’s and women’s players, this was extremely well received by the players and it is something that can be built on easily for next season.
On the social side of things, we arranged for a pre-season barbeque on the first training night which was preceded by a game of touch. With over 65 players attending it was an enormous success and we managed to get some new players signed up (as well as some old faces returning). We also set some objectives for the season ahead which unfortunately, we have been unable to achieve. But, the buy in from the players was tremendous, there was a significant amount of information thrown out and everyone made an effort to acknowledge the task of the season ahead.
With pre-season now in full swing, the club were made aware of disheartening news concerning Noah Rees (a former colt at Hove Rugby Club) was involved in a tragic accident in early summer. His family arranged a fund raising day at the club to help aid his recovery, the senior men’s squad arranged an intra club game for #noahfest and social sec Chris Knott organised t shirts to be made for all the senior players with all proceeds going towards Noah’s recovery. This was truly a remarkable day, mainly because the amount of people that came out in support of Noah but also it gave a sense of the community spirit that is within Hove Rugby Club.
With only a few weeks until the start of the season, Hove took a squad of 32 players to Chobham for a pre-season friendly. With a split of the squads into 1s and 2’s, both teams were able to secure victories which were a huge relief and gave optimism for the season ahead. A number of players were making their senior men’s debuts, Harry Nelson, Luke Buckton-Taylor and Ben Stephens all under 20 and made serious impressions. Unfortunately we lost Luke Torres in pre-season with a knee ligament injury; this was extremely unfortunate for Luke as he had spent the majority of last season recovering from concussion; however he gracefully took on the roll as the player’s membership secretary which he excelled in. the club and committee are extremely thankful to Luke for his help during the season.
The first league games came up quickly for both teams, with a host of players available the coaches were spoilt for choice. The 1XV were at home to Old Alleynians and the 2XV were away to Lewes, with myself out injured, Phil Dugard was making his season debut as captain for the 1XV and Christopher Wallace captained the 2XV. In great conditions, both sides recorded victories with the 1XV winning 21-16 and second team recording a dogged win away to Lewes winning 21-17. This was an outstanding start to the season but there was plenty to work on for both teams.
Next up, was an away trip to Deal for the 1XV with the 2XV facing Seaford at home. With a number of players suddenly unavailable (Rene, Carles, Dugard to name a few), the 1XV travelled to Deal with a very different looking team that had beat OA’s the week before. The 2XV were also weakened by as a number of their players had been promoted to the first team. Nevertheless, both sides wanted to continue the winning momentum.
Unfortunately, despite a solid performance by many young players, the 2XV lost 14-33. Players such as Luke Buckton-Taylor, Ben Stephens and Jack Moore all stepped up showing that they are the future of the club. Down in Deal, it was a day to forget, Hove abandoned their game plan and indiscipline cost the boys dearly, Hove only managed one solitary try which was from Lloyd Tullet. A day to forget for the 1XV.
The next block of fixtures for the 1XV was crucial, Charlton Park at home was a huge game and luckily Hove were back to full strength. The 2XV faced local rivals Burgess Hill away and despite a number of players missing, they again put up a strong fight but ultimately fell on the wrong side of the referee losing 36-7. For the 1XV, it was a return to winning ways; Ian Saunders managed to remain on the pitch this time and Alex Parker grabbed a hatrick. Harry Nelson was also in scintillating form and because of some real hard graft in defence; Hove managed to win 31-28, an outstanding result.
Up next was Maidstone away for the 1XV and Hellingly at home for the 2XV. Maidstone were bottom of the league and had been having a tough time but Hove were under no illusions it would be tough. The 2XV had a much stronger team out and despite strong performances from Danny O’Connor and James Buckley, a few late scores by Hellingly put the game out of reach with the final score being 14-28 to Hellingly.
The 1XV on the other hand, put Maidstone to the sword and came away with a 62-12 victory, notable performances came from George Brown who had probably his best game in a Hove shirt, Chris Knott threw some pingers all day in the lineout showing that he fully deserved the number 2 jersey after PAT ANDREWS left in the summer. But the highlight of this game was a certain Carl Buckland, who had the grand old age of 104 scored his first try in 30 years (okay those stats aren’t correct but its close), Carl followed up on the kick off which Sam whiting gathered, he then looked inside him and fed Carl who strolled in scoring under the posts, a mesmerising moment.
After a week’s break, the 1XV were back at home to Crowborough and the 2XV faced Crawley away. For only the second time this season, the coaching team had a full complement to pick from; competition for selection is always good but both teams had the ability to go out and win. The 2XV were down by 3 points at half time after some excellent scores by Guy Patton and Archie Davies however, the failure to adapt to the referee again cost the boys and Crawley ran away with a 34-12 win. At the rec, despite the boys going down to 13 men, the 1XV came away with a 27-22 win, I am told it should have been more but the defensive effort was what sealed the win.
This win was marred by the disappointment that Chris Knott had suffered a serious ankle injury in training. Chris has had a successful operation and is well on the mend now but it was a cruel blow for a good player and all round good bloke, I want to thank Chris for continuing to stay involved despite his horrific injury, hopefully we will all see him back in a Hove shirt soon!
Gravesend and East Grinstead were the next opponents. The 1XV travelled up to north Kent with a real spring in their step and thanks to late interception by Carles, they came away with a deserved win, the final score being 15-12. The 2XV had a tough time of it against EG, losing 0-46.
After another rest week because of the world cup final (did England play? My memory is hazy!), the 1XV hosted Dover at home in the pouring rain, another impressive defensive performance ensued with a final result 36-7 to Hove. The 2XV were away to Seaford in a friendly winning 95-5 or something, even Rob Brown played!
Up next was Old Colfs in what would prove to be a real test, but the weekend went to the 2XV who managed their first league win in 2 months by beating Barns Green at home 24-12, a fantastic result. The first team unfortunately lost out despite scoring 4 tries with a final score of 38-25 to Old Colfs. The boys were obviously disappointed by this but I took real heart in our attitude to never give up, something that we had lost over the last year.
Thanet at home provided the perfect opportunity for the 1XV to bounce back and they deservedly did that with a 50-0 win against Thanet, the 2XV lost out to a powerful Eastbourne side away (although I understand it was the biggest pack that they had faced) with a final score of 53-12.
Next up, we were in the Bob Rogers Cup against Brighton 2XV. Now regardless of what team Brighton put out, this was a huge game for the squad. Last season, we were humiliated away at Brighton in the league failing to register a point; it’s probably my worst memory in a Hove shirt and I know some of the boys were keen to rectify that. It was a pulsating game, there was everything from great tries to a red card, but the highlight of the game was seeing Guy Patton split his opposite number (Matt Dickens, a former Hove player!) in half.
Tries by Alex Parker (2), Jack Moore and Ian Saunders gave Hove a deserved score line of 26-19 at the final whistle. I think if you speak to anyone at Hove, regardless of what team Brighton put out, you always want to get one over on them and this fixture was no different.
With two games left before the Christmas break, the 1XV travelled away to Beccehamians whilst the 2XV had a bye weekend. In what was purely a defensive Hove managed to come away with a 24-10 win, it should have been far more but possession and discipline let Hove down. Anyway, the annual Christmas bus trip more than made up for the performance!
Haywards Heath were next at the rec, deservedly top of the league and with Hove in second place it would determine who would finish top of London 2 South East before the end of the year. The 2XV also hosted Haywards Heath 2XV at home. With a few injuries and some players unavailable, this was always going to be a tough game, in what was a scrappy first half Hove were down by 7 when burst down the flank allowed Pavlides to feed Dugard to score in the corner.
However, Hove went down to 13 men due to some ill-discipline and Heath were able to capitalise fully scoring two well taken tries. Hove were able to pull one back when a sneaky move allowed Pavlides to burst through and score under the posts, despite some further late pressure Hove had to settle for the losing bonus point with the final score 19-12 to Haywards Heath. The 2XV also had their troubles on pitch 3 (which bizarrely only had one set of posts!) with the final score 29-5 to Heath. Despite two tough losses, I was proud with the character we had showed, in both teams. The previous season had been really tough mentally and physically so it was important that we actually played to our potential in both leagues.
2020 started with a trip to Farnham in the RFU intermediate cup, with a number of players unavailable and or injured this was always going to be tough going. We had a huge number of young players in the squad, Harry Nelson, Luca Marshall, Luke Buckton-Taylor, Ben Stephens and George Davies all stepped up to the plate. Farnham were clearly eager to progress through the rounds and the score line probably didn’t reflect the effort put in by the boys with the hosts running out 55-0 winners.
With us out the intermediate cup, we were still in line to achieve our objectives of finishing top 4 and winning a cup. With that, attention quickly shifted to Deal at home for the 1XV and Seaford away for the 2XV. Eager to make up for the result against Deal at the start of the season, Hove were not on the money at all, Deal defended like their lives depended on it and there was just no way through despite numerous opportunities to put the game to bed, scores by Emmerson and Dugard were simply not enough and Deal ran out 19-13 winners. The 2XV were also having their fair share of troubles going down 33-15 to Seaford, again there were opportunities to get some points but indiscipline cost them again (a running them throughout the senior men’s squad).
It wasn’t going to get any easier for both sides, the 1XV headed up the M25 to Charlton Park and the 2XV hosted Burgess Hill at the rec. Hove were in the middle of somewhat crisis in the second row department, Old Carl Buckland and Charlie Watts were both out with long term injuries while Ian Saunders was suffering from a hip issue. This meant Toby Brown and Adie Shergold deputised in the row. Against the biggest pack in the league this was going to be a long day at the office if Hove couldn’t win their set piece, assistant coach Jack Newton had tweaked attack and the 1XV probably made more breaks than they did all season. Despite this, they failed to capitalise on their opportunities and Charlton Park eventually ran out winners with the score of 55-24. The 2XV managed to get a solid team against Burgess Hill but, were undone by some flying Fijians which showed up just in time for kick off, Burgess Hill ran away with the game winning 45-5.
With some numbers dropping at training and both sides struggling to record wins, there was clearly an issue. The leadership group produced a survey for all the players to give feedback on a number of areas which they thought were good or bad. With over 40 responses, this was extremely valuable and as a playing group we have managed to look at a number of areas that we can improve upon, ranging from training to culture and even food. We are hoping to repeat this at the end of the year to see if there has been progress and look for other ways we can improve as club.
With Maidstone conceding the game to the 1XV, the 2XV played Hellingly away. With a number of players returning, the 2XV managed to put out a strong side. Tries by Garrish, Marshall and Holborn gave a winning score of 34-10. A superb result.
February came around quick and the 1XV went up to local rivals Crowborough with a lot to prove. There had been a huge amount of rain the day before and it was arguable that the game should have even gone ahead, despite this Hove knew that Crowborough would play a simple game plan but again, there were so many missed opportunities that could have sealed the win. Scores by Marshall and Patton (2) gave Hove a losing bonus point but Crowborough sealed the win with a late penalty, with a final score of 23-17. The 2XV hosted Crawley and from I understand this was the best performance they had put in this season despite eventually losing 19-5, plaudits were earned from the Crawley players who stuck around after for a considerable period.
In order to get to the final of the Bob Rogers Cup this year, Hove had to overcome Horsham 2’s. Hove and Horsham have a feisty history with a number of high scoring games, the boys were keen to make sure they came on the right side of the result and beat the current holders thoroughly. With a large crop of the younger players starting, it was a chance for players to stake their claim for the rest of the season and beyond, players such as Elliott Curl certainly did that with some ferocious tackling and carrying, one for the future definitely. Scores from myself, Ian, Ben Anderson and Rene put the game to bed but Hove left a number of tries out there (Sandy’s famous saying after panache). Final score was 24-17.
All fixtures at the club were cancelled on the weekend of 15/16th of February due to the storms, this made it difficult for both side to get any momentum with the next few games. However, the 1XV travelled to Dover on the 22nd February looking to win and move up the league after falling from second before Christmas. Dover were in a relegation battle themselves and were up for fight, they managed to score early and keep the pressure on Hove despite playing uphill in the second half. Their fly half ran the show and Hove came away empty handed in what should really have been an achievable win. Final score 20-12 to Dover. The 2XV had no game as Ditchling had withdrawn from the league.
With Barns Green postponing their fixture against the 2XV the following week, Hove had an extended to pick from and a number of players were putting their hand up to tackling Old Colfs. Elliot Curl had made the 4 shirt his own and Carles Casanova Galindo was also given the nod. Old Colfs were the form side in the league and it was always going to be a huge ask to turn them over. In the wind and hail Hove started the strongest with Carles collecting an offload to sprint in under the posts, OC quickly came back through 2 quickly taken tries and a penalty making the score 17-7 at half time. Old Colf’s squandered a large number of chances in the second half, Phil Dugard also managed to get an interception scoring under the posts making the score 17-14. However, discipline was clearly an issue again as Hove conceded 17 penalties with 2 yellow cards. Old Colf’s eventually won 30-14 but there was a real sense of ‘what might have been’ had Hove been on the right side of the referee.
Unbeknown to the players and myself, our rearranged game against Gravesend was to be our final one of the season due to COVID-19. Finally, after weeks of near misses and failed opportunities, things clicked. Hove scored some scintillating tries but what won the game was the defence, even when reduced to 13 men Hove failed to concede. With a final score of 22-15 to Hove it seemed like Hove had finally turned a corner.
That is where it ended for this season, the 1XV ended up finishing 6th, 9 points off fourth place. The 2XV finished 7th in their league which was a great result considering the average age of the team was 21. The Bob Rogers Cup is still up in the air and could happen as a pre-season game, hopefully it does so we can get our hands on the trophy that we have lost 5 times!
Looking back, I am really proud of how we turned things around for the 2019/20 season. We really struggled to put 2 teams out each week last year but, we completed all games this season and didn’t concede. I would like to personally thank the coaching team who worked extremely to achieve this along with tirelessly attending training and prepping the boys to play. I would also like to thank Kev Long for everything he has done on the management side, it has added a real sense of professionalism to the club.
The players have all put in so much effort this season and nothing could happen without them, I would like to thank them for this and hope to see everyone back next year! Additionally, I would like to thank the leadership group who do so much work behind the scenes in order to make the club enjoyable and to make sure that the club continues improving.
Finally I want to thank the committee, sponsors, supporters and volunteers who make up the Hove Rugby Club family, the club doesn’t exist without you all and hopefully we can share great memories again next season once COVID-19 is behind us!
Stay safe and see you soon.
Macca
Women’s 1st XV
Men’s 2nd XV
Women’s 2nd XV
Men’s 3rd XV
June 2020
Report 16/06/2020
Hove Rugby Club hereby announces that it will hold its Annual General Meeting for 2020 on Thursday 2 July 2020 at 7.30pm.
Owing to Government Covid-19 restrictions, the AGM will be held virtually.
All members of the club are cordially invited to register for this meeting. Please email fiona.nehls@hoverugby.com by Monday 22 June at the latest. On registration, members will be sent details on how to attend together with further papers and information on raising questions for this meeting. Plese note that only fully paid up members of the club are entitled to vote.
A copy of the agenda, together with last year’s minutes is attached to this message.
Report 08/06/2020
This is just a quick note to update you on what is happening at the club, and what the committee has been doing for the past 2 months.
Pete and Rob have continued to monitor our financial position, currently we are just about covering the ongoing operating cost of the clubhouse with the payments from members who opted to pay their membership on a monthly basis and using the government furlough scheme for our staff. Rob has been busy building some forecasting models using a number of scenarios on when we can return to playing rugby, open the bar and also the anticipated loss of income as we have refunded cancelled summer bookings, a reduction in the RFU funding, the anticipated loss of sponsorship from those whose businesses have been adversely impacted by COVID and payments we will have to make going forward as the furlough scheme is wound down.
We have also been working on preparing for the club AGM; within the club constitution we have to have the AGM by the end of July. With social distancing limits we have decided to proceed with the club’s first ever Virtual AGM. This will be held on Thursday 2nd July.
Calling papers and details of how to register will be circulated next week by Fiona to all those eligible.
At the AGM we will also be awarding Club Honours to recognise our volunteers and members for their services to the club. Any member can nominate someone by writing a citation showing why the person deserves the award. If you would like to make a proposal then let Fiona know and she will send you the criteria and nomination form for the awards. (fiona.nehls@hoverugby.com). All citations must be received by Monday 15th June so that the Oversight Committee can review them and then recommend to the Executive which ones fulfil the criteria.
Some of the men’s first team have been doing some work on the pitches, however we are limited on what we can do due to the current financial situation and also the lack of rain!
Nick Garish and the senior coaches are looking at how we can safely start the return to training; following both RFU guidance and the Government’s regulations. We are keen to get back to being able to offer our members some rugby but in a way that is safe for all participants.
All of the volunteers who run your club look forward to the time we can welcome you back into your club and hope all of you and those you love stay safe. One Club #HoveFamily
May 2020
The Club remained shut throughout May due to the Corona Virus pandemic. No newsletters were received.
April 2020
The season was forced to close early for all clubs because of the outbreak of Covid-19 infection from the new Corona virus.
Report 17/04/2020
This is just a quick note to update you what is happening at the club.
As for the club’s financial position, Pete, Rob and Adam have continued their hard work to ensure we can access all revenue streams available to us. Pete has been having weekly calls with Sussex RFU as they work through what help is available and feeding back to the management committee in a series of virtual meetings.
Firstly I would like to send my heartfelt thanks out to those members who made cash donations to the club over the past few weeks. These generous gifts have enabled us to get to the end of March with most due bills paid.
We have placed all our staff on the Government Covid-19 job retention scheme and have started the paperwork to get their wages paid from when the club closed. This means the staff are all now on furlough and can do no work for the club so club volunteers will pick up additional duties, thanks to Fiona and our accountants Cardens for their work on this.
We have been notified of our eligibility for the Government hospitality and leisure grant with the assurance we will receive funds this week and have also had the business rate deferral applied. We have also got a payment holiday from the RFU for the loan we took out to undertake the pitch repairs.
So compared to many other clubs and businesses our immediate financial concerns have abated. All money we receive during this time will be put back into the club to keep it running and delivering rugby for all and to keep the club going as a community asset.
All of the volunteers who run your club look forward to the time we can welcome you back into your club and hope all of you and those you love stay safe.
One Club #HoveFamily
March 2020
Report 22/03/2020
You may have already seen the announcement from the RFU that the 2019/20 rugby season has been ended with no further competitive rugby to take place this season.
There is also the directive from the Government that all bars are to shut, this leaves the club in a perilous position as the club has no cash reserves as each year all income is spent to deliver rugby to the members. The Committee, particularly Pete and Adam supported by Rob Ward are working hard to ensure we can access all financial assistance available to us so that we can continue to pay the wages of all employees throughout the closure.
It is not clear what proportion of our fixed expenditure will be covered, we have already cut back where we can but there remain financial commitments which can not be left unpaid. The poor weather since the new year had already weakened our financial position.
You may be asking what can you do to help? We ask for you to support us by if you have taken advantage of the ability to pay your annual membership by monthly repayments to keep making the payments. It was disappointing and disheartening to hear that a small number of members cancelled their payments last week after my message about the RFU halting activity.
We appreciate some members may be facing financial hardship at this time, those who are self employed like Yaz in the kitchen and those who have lost their jobs over the past few weeks as businesses cut back, if this affects you or your family please speak to us, we have always had the discretion to accommodate members with financial troubles and always will.
Another way you can help is whenever you buy anything online, from your weekly shop to your emergency wine (or is that just me?) you could be earning free donations for us. With over 3,000 shops and sites on board ready to make a donation, including Amazon, John Lewis and Sainsbury’s it doesn’t cost you a penny extra and all money raised will go towards keeping the club afloat.
1. Head to https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/hoverc and join for free.
2. Every time you shop online, go to easyfundraising first to find the site you want and start shopping.
3. After you’ve checked out, that retailer will make a donation to us for no extra cost.
All of the volunteers who run your club look forward to the time we can welcome you back into your club and hope all of you and those you love stay safe.
One Club #HoveFamily
Report 17/03/2020
Following the government advice released yesterday the RFU have released the following statement…
Following government advice, the RFU will suspend all rugby activity in England, at both professional and community level.
Rugby activity includes club training, league and cup matches plus rugby education courses from 17 March until 14 April subject to continued review. The decision has been taken following government advice in the interests of players, coaches, referees, volunteers, supporters and the wider rugby union community.
Where possible, players at all levels are encouraged to maintain their own personal fitness and keep active during this time, while following government guidelines about safe distance and safe exercise environments.
The RFU will continue to review and monitor government advice and will provide detailed updates on the impact to the season in the coming weeks.
This means as from yesterday the club is now closed until further notice for all activity. This will be a testing time for the club and we will continue to monitor the situation.
One Club #HoveFamily
Report 13/03/2020
We are writing to you to give you an update on Hove Rugby’s approach to the COVID-19 virus.
The RFU’s advice is that clubs use government and Public Health England’s guidance to inform their knowledge as the latest information is available on the government’s website and is updated daily. The government announced on Thursday there is no change in advice regarding sporting events at the moment i.e. they can continue. Given this, league and cup games planned for this weekend will played as usual. However we recognise that competition organisers, players and clubs are seeking advice on specific details, so the RFU’s position is that in the event of situations where:
(a) Covid-19 case or cases have been reported or suspected in relation to player and/or individuals connected to a club (or closely connected to a club, player or such other individual connected to a club); and/or
(b) such individuals are subject to the Governmental advice to self-isolate;
Postponements of fixtures involving the clubs will be permitted as a justifiable reason for postponement, subject to clubs notifying the opposition and the competition organiser of the postponement (in accordance with competition organisers’ instructions). The RFU regulations will continue to apply.
The RFU will keep this under continual review and will be assessing the situation over the weekend in line with latest Government advice. If there are any planned changes to the future playing of the league and cup programmes this will be communicated to clubs and participants as soon as possible
Clubs may also find this information useful:
• Guidance on educational settings – Read more
• NHS overview – Read more
Hove Rugby’s position with regard to COVID-19. Our aim is to continue playing rugby (tag and contact) across all groups in the club until there is specific directive from the government or our governing bodies to alter or halt playing rugby, and the club will operate as usual for all other events. However, as rugby is a contact sport there may be an increased risk to our members as the spread of COVID-19 is most likely to happen when there is close contact with an infected person. This is however a low risk at the moment but we will continue to monitor the situation.
As a community and family club, we do have a number of siblings and members who are in the high-risk category through illness or age whose welfare we need to think about; not just the super athletic players! I would therefore ask all players, parents, coaches and supporters to familiarise themselves with the guidance, and to follow the current advice provided. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-stay-at-home-guidance The key public health message is still to focus on handwashing and I therefore ask that you encourage your children to wash their hands
Report 12/03/2020
It continues to be a challenging season for club operations, although we had less rain this week we are continuing to keep an eye on pitch conditions to ensure they are not damaged too much, so ask all teams to try and minimise repetitive patterns on the pitches during training and where possible seek out grassy areas. The committee are also keeping a close eye on the information relating to corvid-19 for if similar steps are taken in the UK as other countries this will impact the running of the club both in playing opportunities and also in revenue to keep the club running.
Saturday saw the men’s first team return to winning ways against Gravesend with a 22 – 10 final score, it was an away loss 35 – 8 for the men’s second team away at East Grinstead and the third team’s game was cancelled by the opposition.
News from the U16’s who played their 5th round league match at home against East Grinstead. Strong performances from the Hove forwards combating a huge East Grinstead pack and great handling with blistering pace from the Hove back line, led to a 7 tries to 3 win with Hugh Gould kicking 6 of 7 conversions. Final score 47-17. The U16’s are looking good for another county final appearance at the end of the season! This Sunday they welcome Worthing U16’s for a top of the table clash.
This weekend the men’s first and second teams have a rest week and the thirds are away at Ditchling but fear not if you are after some live rugby to watch on a Saturday afternoon come down to see the women’s first team take on Barnsley at 2pm. With a walkover and a win to Hove so far they have all to play for to top the playoffs.
On Sunday the Women’s second team play Worthing at home, the Colts host Pulborough. The U13 girls also host Pulborough and the U13 boys host Crowborough and the U14 play Horsham & Lewes.
If you or someone you know are interested in sponsoring the club, please contact Macca on martinmacdonald_3@hotmail.com. Sponsorship is essential to keep the club running as once again the RFU have cut the funding grass roots clubs receive.
Following the winding up of the 200 club the 500 club is now open, details of how to join are on the website https://www.hoverugby.com/news/join-the-500-club-2507460.html, for £5 per month you can be in with the chance of winning £500. You have to be in it to win it!
As always if you have any news you would like to share with the club let me know One Club #HoveFamily
Report 05/03/2020
Finally we had a Sunday relatively free from rain, however if forecasts are to believed it will not last and we have more rain coming this week so we will continue to monitor the condition of the pitches.
On a cold and rainy Saturday we welcomed league leaders Old Colfeians to Hove, with a strong wind influencing play Old Colfs won 14 – 30. The other men’s matches were lost to opposition pitches being unplayable and another club being unable to field a team. The women’s first team were rewarded for their long trip up to Newcastle with a 22 – 0 win.
On Sunday the women’s second team played another far travelling team Jersey, who ran out 48 – 8 winners before catching their plane home.
This weekend we have a rearranged league match which was lost to storm Dennis with Gravesend making the journey down, The seconds are away at East Grinstead and the thirds are at home to Newick. No women’s fixtures this weekend but all the girls teams are in action with U13 hosting Dorking and the U15 & U18 away at Horsham. The U16 boys are playing Eastbourne.
There is a lunch before the match on Saturday, steak and ale pie & veg followed by lemon tart or a cheese plate. Arrive 13:00 for a 13:30 sit down, phone Gill 07771 33188, or Yaz on 07539105210 yazconrad@yahoo.com to book.
A reminder that our sponsors Cin Cin have a new 10% discount available for Hove members in March, details in the attached flyer. I’ve got my table booked for later this month!
If you or someone you know are interested in sponsoring the club, please contact Macca on martinmacdonald_3@hotmail.com. Sponsorship is essential to keep the club running as once again the RFU have cut the funding grass roots clubs receive.
Following the winding up of the 200 club the 500 club is now open, details of how to join are on the website https://www.hoverugby.com/news/join-the-500-club-2507460.html, for £5 per month you can be in with the chance of winning £500. You have to be in it to win it!
As always if you have any news you would like to share with the club let me know. One Club #HoveFamily
February 2020
Report 19/02/2020
Saturday saw the first team on the road to Charlton Park where they experienced another defeat losing 55 – 24, the seconds also lost to Burgess Hill 45 – 5 and the thirds won against Burgess Hill 2nds 30 – 15. No women’s fixtures on Sunday but the club was well represented with a number of players attending trials for the Sussex team.
The first team was due to play Maidstone this weekend but they have conceded the game due to an inability to field a team, this means we get a 5 point home win awarded to us. The second and third team are both away at Hellingly and Shoreham respectively. The planned club lunch has been cancelled and we are looking to rearrange on the 8th February when we play Horsham in the Sussex Cup.
Sunday sees the women’s first team in action at home against Blackheath , the U16 are away at Haywards Heath, the Colts host Jersey and the U13 girls host Brighton.
Thanks to all who have let me know their details for the Club Volunteers night on the 7th February at 7:30pm when we welcome all members who currently volunteer or would like to get more involved to come down and share a meal and a few drinks with your fellow volunteers. Please email me if you will be attending so that we can order enough food.
As always if you have any news you would like to share with the club let me know at geraldine.brown@hoverugby.com.
One Club #HoveFamily
Report 05/02/2020
Saturday saw the first team on the road to Charlton Park where they experienced another defeat losing 55 – 24, the seconds also lost to Burgess Hill 45 – 5 and the thirds won against Burgess Hill 2nds 30 – 15. No women’s fixtures on Sunday but the club was well represented with a number of players attending trials for the Sussex team.
The first team was due to play Maidstone this weekend but they have conceded the game due to an inability to field a team, this means we get a 5 point home win awarded to us. The second and third team are both away at Hellingly and Shoreham respectively. The planned club lunch has been cancelled and we are looking to rearrange on the 8th February when we play Horsham in the Sussex Cup.
Sunday sees the women’s first team in action at home against Blackheath , the U16 are away at Haywards Heath, the Colts host Jersey and the U13 girls host Brighton.
Thanks to all who have let me know their details for the Club Volunteers night on the 7th February at 7:30pm when we welcome all members who currently volunteer or would like to get more involved to come down and share a meal and a few drinks with your fellow volunteers. Please email me if you will be attending so that we can order enough food.
As always if you have any news you would like to share with the club let me know at geraldine.brown@hoverugby.com.
One Club #HoveFamily
January 2020
Report 24/01/2020
Saturday saw the first team on the road to Charlton Park where they experienced another defeat losing 55 – 24, the seconds also lost to Burgess Hill 45 – 5 and the thirds won against Burgess Hill 2nds 30 – 15. No women’s fixtures on Sunday but the club was well represented with a number of players attending trials for the Sussex team.
The first team was due to play Maidstone this weekend but they have conceded the game due to an inability to field a team, this means we get a 5 point home win awarded to us. The second and third team are both away at Hellingly and Shoreham respectively. The planned club lunch has been cancelled and we are looking to rearrange on the 8th February when we play Horsham in the Sussex Cup.
Sunday sees the women’s first team in action at home against Blackheath , the U16 are away at Haywards Heath, the Colts host Jersey and the U13 girls host Brighton.
Thanks to all who have let me know their details for the Club Volunteers night on the 7th February at 7:30pm when we welcome all members who currently volunteer or would like to get more involved to come down and share a meal and a few drinks with your fellow volunteers. Please email me if you will be attending so that we can order enough food.
As always if you have any news you would like to share with the club let me know at geraldine.brown@hoverugby.com. One Club #HoveFamily
Report 16/01/2020
League rugby returned to Hove Rec on Saturday as the men’s first team took on Deal & Betteshanger, after losing on the away trip earlier in the season it had the potential to be a close match, this was the case with a loss to hove 13 – 19, the seconds lost 33 – 15 away at Seaford and the thirds beat Ditchling 46 – 22 and are currently at the top of their league.
On Sunday the women’s first team lost 41 – 10 away at Thurrock, the second team’s game was postponed by the opposition. In the youth sections the U16’s played a tough league match away at Chichester winning a hard fought victory finishing the match 24-31, 4 tries to 5.
Congratulations to Nigel Wilce winning £200, Eddy Sears winning £100 and Miles Kimberly winning £50 in the final draw for the 200 club.
It is the Club Volunteers night on the 7th February at 7:30pm when we welcome all members who currently volunteer or would like to get more involved to come down and share a meal and a few drinks with your fellow volunteers. Please email me if you will be attending so that we can order enough food.
As always if you have any news you would like to share with the club let me know at geraldine.brown@hoverugby.com. One Club #HoveFamily
Report 08/01/2020
And welcome to the first bulletin of 2020! I hope you all had a good Christmas and New Year!
Rugby has already started at the club, on Saturday the men headed to Farnham to play in the 3rd round of the RFU London & SE Intermediate Cup. With a number of regular starters away attending weddings in Australia/New Zealand or unable to resist the lure of a New Year ski trip it was a much changed team which saw the end of our RFU cup challenge with a 55 – 0 defeat. The thirds won their cup game at Horsham in the Harvey Sussex Plate Quarter Final 0 – 62 moving in to a semi-final against Shoreham on the 8th February.
On Sunday the women’s second team played league leaders Tonbridge Juddians losing 12 – 36.
This weekend with the holiday makers returned the first team host Deal & Bettshanger, seconds are away at Seaford and thirds away at Ditchling. On Sunday both women’s teams are away at Thurrock and Seaford. The U16 are away at Chichester & Reigate, U15 home to Brighton, U13 away at Bognor and U12 home agaist East Grinstead.
This Saturday sees the annual Vice President’s lunch when we welcome the members who have been awarded the honour over the years. Main course is pork chop in a creamy mustard and gerkin sauce, crushed new potatoes and veg, or a vegetarian alternative of grilled Haloumi cheese served with Mediterranean lentil Tabbouleh. Followed by Eton Mess or a cheese board. Arrive 12 for a 12:30 sit down, £12.50 phone Gill 07771 33188, or Yaz on 07539105210, yazconrad@yahoo.com to book.
This year we will be turning our attention to fund raising to enable us to start work on the extension. To aid this Saturday will see the closing down of the 200 Club, with a final draw for 3 prizes totalling £350, the results will be announced at the lunch. We will be launching its replacement – the 500 club from the 1st February. Full details of the scheme and how to join will be on flyers around the club and via a future weekly messages.
It is the Club Volunteers night on the 7th February at 7:30pm when we welcome all members who currently volunteer or would like to get more involved to come down and share a meal and a few drinks with your fellow volunteers. Please email me if you will be attending so that we can order enough food.
As always if you have any news you would like to share with the club let me know at geraldine.brown@hoverugby.com.
One Club #HoveFamily
December 2019
Report 20/12/2019
We had a busy club over the weekend with three home games on Saturday and Santa’s visit on Sunday!
Saturday saw a top of the table clash between the first team and Haywards Heath, with Heath winning a close game 19 – 12, the seconds also played Haywards heath losing 5 – 29 and the thirds beat Steynning 17 – 14
On Sunday the women’s first team were away at Old Albanians losing 12 – 7.
The club is now closed for the Christmas and New Year period apart from New Year’s Day when we will be holding the traditional Hangover Trophy, bar and kitchen open from 11 with kick off somewhere around 12:30 depending on when players turn up and get themselves ready. All welcome to come down and either play or watch.
We have a small number of tickets remaining for the England v Ireland match at Twickenham on Sunday 23rd February, tickets cost £85. All full members can apply for these tickets so let me know if you are interested by Friday 3rd January and will pick names out of a hat. I hope you all have a great Christmas and New Year and see you all when the club reopens for training on the 2nd January.
Report 11/12/2019
Last weekend saw the first team beat Beccehamian away 10-24, there was no game for the seconds and the thirds won at Pulborough 17-24.
Sunday saw both Women’s teams travel with the firsts winning at Henley 8-10 whilst the seconds lost to Cranbook Ladies 25-0.
Also on Sunday, the minis (U7s-U10s) played a ‘triangular’ – friendly matches against Crawley and Shoreham, with Hove and Shoreham sharing the hosting. Fun was had by all. The U9s have reported that they held their own against strong opposition, winning far more than losing, but more importantly giving games to all our squad – both the experienced and the new players. The U16s played a friendly vs Pulborough which was entertaining and great to watch, they came out winners 38-20.
Club Programme Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 December 2019
This weekend sees a busy time at the club with the last home games before the Christmas break. Saturday sees the firsts hosting top of the table Haywards Heath with a 2.00pm kick off. This will be preceded by Christmas Lunch which is now fully booked. The 2nd XV will also be playing Haywards Heath and the 3rds are hosting Steyning.
On Sunday the U12As and Bs are hosting Horsham and Chichester and the U14s will be hosting Chichester. There are afternoon matches for the Girls U15, Boys U16 and Colts. The Women’s first team are away at Old Albanians and the women’s 2nd team are on a rest week.
To add to the busy weekend the minis Christmas party will be held at noon with a visit from Santa for the U6, U7 and U8 age groups followed by hot dogs and some Christmas music.
Whilst on the subject of Christmas, please think about using the easyfundraising link. Every time you shop on line, retailers will make a donation to Hove Rugby Club – please visit and register to shop and help the Club at the same time just go to: https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/hoverc/
Christmas Closure
The Clubhouse will be closed from Friday 20 December and will re-open on Wednesday 1st January for the annual Hangover Trophy – details to follow.
Future Events
In the New Year we will have a VPs Lunch on 11 January and Friday 7 February will see the Club Volunteers night.
November 2019
Report 27/11/2019
After defeat at Old Colfeians the first team bounced back with a 50 – 0 win against Thanet in what were again challenging conditions as the heavens opened just before kick off. The seconds lost against Eastbourne 52 – 12 the thirds won 7 – 10 at Plumpton.
On Sunday the women’s firsts lost 10 – 5 away at Trojans, the Colts secured their second win of the season 24 – 22 against Worthing and both U14 teams won their matches against Teddington the As 19 – 17 and the Bs an impressive 71 – 5.
This weekend, on Saturday the first team host Brighton IIs in a Cup match with a 2pm kick off, it is a rest week for the other men’s teams. On Sunday the women’s seconds are away in Jersey, the U15 girls are home to Seaford and U18 girls away at Heathfield, U15 away at Farnham, U14 are home to London Irish and U12 home to Eastbourne & away at Lewes.
There are a few events coming up to get in your diaries
There is a dinner at the club on Friday 6th December to raise funds for the Colts tour to France, there will be a 3 course dinner and a guest speaker – Martyn Williams MBE. Tickets from www.hovecolts.eventbrite.co.uk or from the club bar.
The club Christmas Lunch is on Saturday 14th before the top of the table clash with Haywards Heath, phone Gill to book 07771 33188, or Yaz on 07539105210, yazconrad@yahoo.com
The mini’s Christmas party will be on the 15th.
January 1st will see the annual Hangover Trophy, 11th January the VPs Lunch and February 7th – Club Volunteers night.
Report 20/11/2019
Thanks to all who have taken the time to send me the results for last weekend, on the road at Old Colfeians, the first team lost 38 – 25, the second team won 24 – 12 against Barnes Green, the third team’s league game was conceded by Midhurst due to a shortage of players but a game was still went ahead after we loaned them players.
On Sunday the women’s first team beat Supermarine 32 – 10 and the second team lost to Lewes IIs 8 – 37. The Colts beat Haywards Heath 22 – 0, U16 beat Midhurst 17 – 29 and the U15 beat Heathfield 64 – 12.
This weekend, on Saturday the first team host Thanet, the seconds are away at Eastbourne and thirds away at Plumpton. On Sunday the women’s first are away at Trojans, the Colts host Worthing, U15 away at Worthing and the U14 are home to Teddington.
The women’s second team have an on-line raffle running until Sunday to help raise funds to cover accommodation costs for the league match trip to Jersey on the 1st December. Tickets just £1!
There are a few events coming up to get in your diaries
There is a dinner at the club on Friday 6th December to raise funds for the Colts tour to France, there will be a 3 course dinner and a guest speaker – Martyn Williams MBE. Tickets from the club bar.
The club Christmas Lunch is on Saturday 14th before the top of the table clash with Haywards Heath – book a place with Yaz or Gill. The mini’s Christmas party will be on the 15th.
January 1st will see the annual Hangover Trophy, 11th January the VPs Lunch and February 7th – Club Volunteers night.
October 2019
Report 30/10/2019
Another weekend of winning ways by the first team returning from Gravesend with a 15 – 12 win, the second and thirds both did battle at home in the afternoon downpour the seconds losing 46 – 0 against East Grinstead and the thirds beating Shoreham 44 – 0. On Sunday both women’s teams were in action with the firsts beating Thurrock 30 – 21 and the seconds losing 19-10 at Worthing.
No senior men’s rugby this week so hope to see some of you down at the club to watch England in the World Cup Final. The club will be open at 8:30am, with the kitchen open and providing a wide range of breakfasts and liquid refreshment available at the bar to celebrate/drown sorrows. On Sunday the women’s first team are away at Blackheath, the colts are away at Warlingham and the U14 boys host Worthing.
Report 23/10/2019
It was good to see so many members up at the club last Saturday morning watching the World Cup quarter finals before the men’s first team played Crowborough, a 27 – 22 win sees the team move to 3rd in the league. The seconds lost 12 – 34 away at Crawley whilst the 3rds ran out 31 – 14 winners away at St Francis.
Sunday saw the women’s second team win 59 – 20 against Seaford.
This weekend the first team are away at Gravesend, the second and thirds are both home against East Grinstead and Shoreham respectively. On Sunday both women’s teams are in action with the firsts hosting Thurrock and the seconds away at Worthing. The U18 girls host Worthing and the U15 Boys are away at Pulborough The club will be open for World Cup matches, opening at 8am, with Yaz running the kitchen for his first weekend. I hope you will all give him a warm Hove welcome.
Report 18/10/2019
As the only senior team in action last weekend the women’s first team inflicted the first loss on league leaders Old Albanians winning 18 – 12
This weekend there is more activity at the clubhouse, we will be opening at 8am to show all the quarter finals before the men’s first team take on Crowborough with a club lunch preceding the game. The men’s second and third team are both away to Crawley and St Francis respectively. The lunch will be Maddy’s last before the new franchisee takes over the kitchen so as a club we wish to thank Maddy for all her work running Cafe 8.
On Sunday the women’s second team host Seaford and the U12 host at Crowborough, all other age groups are training.
Maddy will be open for World Cup matches serving a full works breakfast with tea/coffee/orange juice for £10. Contact Maddy if you would like to book a place.
We are pleased to announce that Persil have become part of the Hove family in becoming the main sponsor for the Women’s section of the club.
Persil have been creating laundry detergent products since 1909 and have consistently lead the way in a very competitive market place. Considering Rugby is an all weather sport, it is a perfect fit to have a company such as Persil sponsoring our teams. Persil will be located on front of the women’s 1st XV and 2nd XV shirts as well as being located on team training kit. They will also have a small presence in the minis section, with branded ‘bibs’ to help in training. This is a fantastic partnership with a well renowned brand and we hope to develop a strong relationship over the 2019/20 season and beyond. #dirtisgood
Report 09/10/2019
The winning ways continued for the men’s first team this weekend running out 62 – 12 winners away at Maidstone, the seconds lost a hard fought game against Hellingly 14 – 28. This pattern was to be repeated on Sunday with the women’s firsts beating Henley 32 – 14 and the seconds lost 38 – 3 away at Tonbridge Juddians.
On Saturday the clubhouse is opening at 9am for the England v France and Ireland Samoa games. As it is a rest weekend there are no matches for any of the club teams.
On Sunday the women’s first teams host to league leaders Old Albanians 2:30 kick off. The Colts are away at Dorking, U16 boys play Crowborough, U15 away at Cranleigh, U14 away Battersea Ironsides and U12 host two sides from Haywards Heath. For the girls the U15 away at Pulborough and U13 away at Crowborough.
Maddy will once again open for World Cup matches serving a full works breakfast with tea/coffee/orange juice for £10. Contact Maddy if you would like to book a place.
I have reattached the discount voucher for Cin Cin if you fancy a treat one evening.
Finally a shout out to one of our other main sponsors T.Reeve & Son who have sponsored the club for a number of years. This family business has been running since 1869 based on Fairways Industrial Estate provides a range of services including MOT & Servicing, body repairs, brake and clutch work. Finally can I ask all members to think about how they leave the recreation ground, this week one of the other park users videoed the bottles and plastic cups left along the sidelines and shared it on twitter to make us aware of the problem. Please make sure you dispose of all your waste correctly.
Report 02/10/2019
With a lucky break in the rain on Saturday the men’s first team were back to winning ways beating Charlton Park 31 – 28 after a very tense last 10 min, the seconds lost 36 – 7 away at Burgess Hill and the thirds won against Crowborough 41 – 15.
On Sunday we welcomed John Feakins the President of Sussex RFU to the club as he wanted to watch the women’s team in action, it was a great match to watch but unfortunately he was not to see a Hove victory losing to Trojans 22 – 26.
This weekend the clubhouse is opening at 8:30 for the England v Argentina game, the men’s firsts are on the road to Maidstone, The seconds are home to Hellingly and the thirds have a bye week in their league.
On Sunday the club is open at 9am, both women’s teams are away with the firsts travelling to Henley and the seconds to Tonbridge Juddians. The Colts are away at Uckfield, U15 boys away at Brighton and U14 host two sides from Reading Abbey. For the girls the U18 are home to Dorking and U15 & U13 away at Bognor.
The club will once again open for World Cup matches opening at 8:30 am on Saturday and at 9am on Sunday, Maddy will be opening her kitchen and serving a full works breakfast with tea/coffee/orange juice for £10. Contact Maddy if you would like to book a place.
Finally a shout out to one of our other main sponsors Cardens Accountants who have sponsored the club for a number of years looking after our accounts. They are based in central Hove and can assist with all your private and corporate financial needs.
September 2019
Report 25/09/2019
A weekend to forget results wise with all three men’s teams losing, Deal beating the firsts 34 – 8, Seaford beating the seconds 33 – 18 and Pulborough beating the thirds 34 – 17. Hopefully better fortune in results will return this week.
On Saturday the men’s first team host Charlton Park, the seconds are away at Burgess Hill and the thirds host Crowborough. On Sunday the women’s firsts host Trojans, the boys U15 away at Bognor, U13 Home against Heathfield and the U12 away to Pulborough and Burgess Hill. The girls U18 away at Heathfield and U15 away at Horsham.
There is a club lunch on Saturday, lamb and rosemary Cumberland rings with mash and veg followed by apple pie or a cheese alternative, please contact Maddy on 07796147750 if you would like to book a place, 1pm meet for 1:30 sit down.
The club will once again open for World Cup matches opening at 10am on Saturday and at 8am on Sunday, Maddy will be opening her kitchen and serving a full works breakfast with tea/coffee/orange juice for £10. Contact Maddy if you would like to book a place.
Volunteer needed – we have been asked by the RFU to take part in a Rugby Safe research pilot programme which is designed to create a sustainable and measurable safe environment and improve player welfare. As a club we are keen to work with the RFU on this but will need a volunteer to coordinate this, working with the local RDO. This will be a season long commitment with approximately 2 hours per month of your time. Could be a good community engagement/volunteering opportunity for anyone doing the DofE award or anyone who would like to be more involved with the club but on a time limited basis. If interested let me know.
We have a few spaces available for match day sponsorship for the men’s first team home fixtures, details including cost in the attached flyer, please contact Martin on martingmacdonald_3@hotmail.com if you are interested in supporting the club through sponsorship of a lunch. A reminder that the RFU have changed the registration process this season so all minis/youth parents need to register their children directly on the RFU GMS website, all the links and guidelines are available on the club website https://www.hoverugby.com/d/documents.html?group_id=6895
Report 18/09/2019
We welcomed men’s league rugby back to the Rec this weekend on a lovely sunny day which saw the first team run out 21 -16 winners against Old Alleynians, over in Lewes the second team won 21 – 7, I have not yet heard the result of the third team’s match over in Worthing on Friday night. On Sunday winning ways continued for the women’s first team winning 25 – 5 away at Supermarine, the second team lost 5 – 25 at home against Cranbrook.
On Saturday the men’s first team are on the road to Deal, the seconds host Seaford and the thirds host Pulborough. There are no women’s games this weekend.
The club will be open for World Cup matches opening at 10am this Saturday and at 8am on Sunday, Maddy will be opening her kitchen and serving a full works breakfast with tea/coffee/orange juice for £10. Please contact Maddy on 07796147750 if you would like to book a place.
One of our new sponsors Cin Cin – counter dining restaurants in Brighton and Hove capturing the spirit of Italian cuisine using seasonal British produce has an offer on for Hove Members this September and October with 15% off dining on Wednesdays and Thursdays if you take along the attached flyer.
Sussex RFU are looking for a county volunteer coordinator and a rugby safe manager, if interested in these volunteering opportunity details are on the Sussex website https://www.sussexrugby.co.uk/news/
A reminder that the RFU have changed the registration process this season so all minis/youth parents need to register their children directly on the RFU GMS website, all the links and guidelines are available on the club website https://www.hoverugby.com/d/documents.html?group_id=6895
Report 13/09/2019
There were mixed fortunes for the teams this weekend, the men’s first and second teams both had victories away at Chobham winning 19 – 10 and 24 – 17. The women’s first lost 7 – 26 against Bath and the second team’s match was postponed by the opposition.
On Friday evening the men’s third team head over to Worthing for a friendly floodlit match KO 9:45
On Saturday the men’s first team have a home game against Old Alleynians and the seconds are away at Lewes both 3pm kick off, there will be a club lunch, please contact Maddie on 07796147750 if you would like to book a place, 1 for 1:30 sit down.
On Sunday the women’s first team are on the road to Supermarine and the second team host Cranbrook. All min and youth teams have training apart from the U15 boys who are away at Cobham.
I would like to introduce three new sponsors who have joined us this season
Baxter & Hanks – Baxter & Hanks fine jewellers and antique specialists are situated in the heart of the Brighton Lanes. They have been in the jewellery trade for over 20 years and have over 70 years experience between their team.
Apex Group – For over 15 years Apex Group have supported companies around the world buy, sell and manage their surplus assets. Combine that with their 75 years of industry experience, there are very few situations that they can’t add expertise and knowledge.
Cin Cin – Cin Cin has counter dining restaurants in Brighton and Hove capturing the spirit of Italian cuisine using seasonal British produce.
A reminder that the RFU have changed the registration process this season so all minis/youth parents need to register their children directly on the RFU GMS website, all the links and guidelines are available on the club website https://www.hoverugby.com/d/documents.html?group_id=6895
The registration desk for payment of membership fees will be open on Sunday from 9:30 to 12:00.
Report 04/09/2019
It was great to see so many members down at the club on Saturday for NoahFest and the men’s warm up game.
Competitive senior rugby returns to the club this Sunday as the women’s first team welcome Bath for their first league game of the season, the women’s second team are away in a league match against Worthing.
The Men’s first and second teams have pre season friendlies away at Chobham. The men’s first team have a home game on the 14th September there will be a club lunch, please contact Maddie on 07796147750 if you would like to book a place.
Some more thanks for work put in the club over the summer, thanks to Charlie Swannack and Chris Henderson for respectively sourcing and fitting the new carpet in the hall.
Last week I mentioned we have some new sponsors joining the club so over the next few weeks I will be highlighting our sponsors. This week it is the turn of one of our longest standing sponsors Property Moves who are the primary sponsor for the minis and the men’s first team. Property Moves are an award winning letting and property management agency. The directors Warren & Graham have not only supported the club financially over the past 8 years they have also watched their children progress through the mini and youth ranks with Warren’s son Charlie becoming a integral part to the men’s first team over the past two seasons.
A reminder that the RFU have changed the registration process this season so all minis/youth parents need to register their children directly on the RFU GMS website, all the links and guidelines are available on the club website https://www.hoverugby.com/d/documents.html?group_id=6895
The registration desk for payment of membership fees will be open on Sunday from 9:30 to 12:00.
Winston Sports the Club’s Kit Supplier will be at the club this Sunday from 09:30 to 12:30 and will be bringing supplies of club shirts and shorts to purchase (cash or cheque payment is preferred)
The application process for Six Nations tickets has opened and all members who have paid full membership (or pay by pre agreed instalments) are eligible to apply, details and application forms on the club website http://www.hoverugby.com/ . The deadline for applications and payment for tickets is the 10th September, this is to ensure we have processed your order to meet the RFU deadline.
Following on from NoahFest there will be some more fund raising activity to both help support Noah’s recovery fund and the Colts tour to France. This includes a dinner at the club on Friday 6th December where we welcome Martyn Williams MBE as our guest speaker. Tickets from www.hovecolts.eventbrite.co.uk or from the club bar.
August 2019
Report 28/08/2019
Welcome to the 2019/20 season, I hope you have all had fun filled summers.
There has been considerable activity in the club over the summer some of the key elements have been
A team led by 1st team Captain Martin MacDonald working hard to bring in new sponsors to the club, they have had great success and have increased both the number of sponsors and amount of sponsorship we get as a club, my thanks to all involved. I will be using this note over the next few weeks to highlight each of our sponsors and urge you where possible to support them as much as they support us.
A team led by Daniel Wilton have been pushing on to cost out and plan starting work on the extension so we can secure the planning consent we achieved last summer. With an anticipated cost of £500,000 to build it will be a challenge to the club and all members to raise the funds/volunteer expertise to help us achieve this vital expansion.
The management committee with help from playing representatives reviewed the franchise of the kitchen and following consideration of a number of tenders we will have a new franchise in from end of October, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Maddie for the work she has put in over the years running her Cafe 8 franchise.
Senior sides including the Sea Serpents have given up their Saturdays to paint the changing rooms ready for the new season. And the pitch works undertaken in May have taken well helping in part by the wetter summer we experienced this year.
Senior side league activity starts on the 8th for the women and 14th for the mens first teams, home against Bath and Old Alleynians respectively.
The first registration day for the minis and youth sections is on Sunday 1st September and will run for 4 weeks from 9:30 to 12:00. However this weekend falls outside the RFU mini & youth structured season so no contact rugby can be played.
The RFU have also changed the registration process this season so all minis/youth parents have to register their children directly on the RFU GMS website, all the links and guidelines are available on cub website https://www.hoverugby.com/d/documents.html?group_id=6895
The application process for Six Nations tickets has opened and all members who have paid full membership (or pay by pre agreed instalments) are eligible to apply, details and application forms on the club website http://www.hoverugby.com/ . The deadline for applications and payment for tickets is the 10th September, this is to ensure we have processed your order to meet the RFU deadline.
Finally on Saturday 31st August the club is hosting NoahFest from 12 – 7 to raise much needed funds towards a former youth player Noah Rees recovery following an accident last May on the seafront which has left him with life changing industries. Details on the club Facebook page including how to support from afar by buying raffle tickets or participating in the auction. https://www.facebook.com/132529560095170/posts/2830853740262725?sfns=mo
Playing Honours
| Playing Honour | Person |
|---|---|
| Captain | Martin MacDonald |
| Vice Presidents Trophy | Harry Nelson |
| Mens 1st XV Player's Player of Year | Guy Patton |
| Mens 1st XV Player of Year | Guy Patton |
| Mens 1st XV Most Improved Player of Year | Tyler Hooper |
| Mens 2nd XV Player of Year | Ben Stephens |
| Mens 2nd XV Player's Player of Year | Luke Buckton-Taylor |
| Mens 2nd XV Most Improved Player of Year | Ollie Sloan |
| Mens 2nd XVYoung Player of Year | Archie Davis |
| Mens 3rd XV Player of Year | TBA |
| Mens 3rd XV Player of Year | TBA |
| Mens 3rd XV Player's Player of Year | TBA |
| Womens 1st XV Player of Year | TBA |
| Womens 1st XV Player's Player of Year | TBA |
| Womens 1st XV Most Improved Player | TBA |
| Womens 2nd XV Player of Year | TBA |
| Womens 2nd XV Player's Player of Year | TBA |
| Womens 2nd XV Most Improved Player | TBA |
| Claire Thompson Memorial Award | TBA |
Season Images
Club Highlights
Club Honours
| Club Honour | Person |
|---|---|
| Club Legend | Carlos Casanova |
| Jenk's Jug | TBA |
| Allan Kirk Award | TBA |
| Lewis Plate | TBA |
| Vice Presidency Awarded | TBA |
| Honorary Life Membership Awarded | TBA |
President’s Office
| Honour | Person | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| President | Richard Hopkins | |
| Immediate Past President | Colin Lucas | Colin passed away duing the previous season but still retains the IPP position. |
| Senior Vice president | Geoff Pollard | No incumbent |
| Junior Vice President | Chris Basley | No incumbent |
Committee
| Person | Position |
|---|---|
| Geraldine Brown | Chair |
| Fiona Nehls | Secretary |
| Pete Domzalski | Treasurer |
| Adam Tunesi | Operations |
| Geoff Pollard | Governance and Compliance |
| Nick Garrish | Playing |
| John Nehls | Playing |
| Dom Henderson | Playing |
| Sim Ward | Playing |
| Claire Slater | Playing |
Annual General Meeting
The AGM this year was held by virtual means caused by the Covid19 pandemic. A follow up will be held as soon as practicable to allow new motions to be adopted in a more traditional manner and to make permanent rule changes to allow furture virtual AGMs.
Club Handbook and Programmes
No Club Handbook was produced this year and will likely not be produced again as the move to online information gathers pace.
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