You are probably aware that there have been some major changes at the club over the last few months. Personally the resignation of Paul and Mark left me extremely saddened and I would like to thank them both for the hard work and effort they put in to raising the standards at Shaw Lane over recent years. I am sure they will continue to support the club and I am hopeful that given time they will again lend their expertise and passion to the development of rugby in Barnsley in some way.

Moving forwards, rightly or wrongly these changes have happened and players and members at Shaw Lane need to draw a line under the recent issues and build on the strong foundations which were laid by Mark and Paul.

I have agreed to take on the role of Director of Rugby in the interim and will try my best to keep the club moving forwards, but I can’t do this on my own – I need your help! There are quite a few posts/roles that need to be filled at the club and I am looking for volunteers from amongst our membership to help out with these roles, whether it is an hour a week or more than that, there are many things which you can do to help your club

Barnsley RUFC has been in existence since 1902, The last 112 years of proud history would not have been possible without the generations of members who have worked hard to get the club into the fantastic position it is in today.
If we are to keep making this club a success then we need as much help as we can possibly get, therefore to steal a famous phrase “Now is not a time to ask what your club can do for you, it is time to ask what you can do for your club

So if you are interested in getting a bit more involved and would like to help move BRUFC forwards then please do contact me to discuss further.

On the playing front we have a new coaching line up, Ed Norris will take the lead as Head Coach and will be supported by Andrew Appleyard, who takes on the role of Assistant Coach. Noz and Apple are working hard at the minute to develop a training plan which is fresh and exciting for all players at the club. Pre- season training commences on the 1st of July and we would love as to see as many players as possible (old and new) turn up and enjoy the training sessions.

The first team will again be captained by Dave Reed who is now the longest serving club captain in the BRUFC history and the development team will be captained by Luke Hatfield.

If I am to be Director of Rugby then I feel it is important for me to let you all know what direction I would like to see the club take. Of course it is important to me that we compete at the highest level possible but I also passionately believe that we should be a club that encourages rugby at all levels and I want everyone to come and enjoy their rugby at Shaw Lane no matter what their ability.

I think it is important to begin our journey by setting out what we want to achieve, so the coaching team, club captain and I have created a list of our aims and objectives, hopefully these will appeal to everyone and encourage you all to ‘get on the bus’!

‘BRUFC AIMS AND OBJECTIVES’

• We will attempt to create a positive environment where rugby players of all ages and all abilities will be able to enjoy playing competitive rugby.

• Training sessions will be structured and well organised; they will be suitable for all players’ ability and fitness levels.

• Our club will endeavour to run at least 3 senior teams on a weekly basis; all players will be encouraged to improve their skills and fitness levels and play at the highest standard possible.

• Our members will play hard but fairly and within the spirit of rugby; all our members will always follow the rugby code of conduct.

• All our members will have equal opportunities both on and off the field; everyone will be treated fairly and with respect.

• Our club will continue to support the young players coming through our junior section and will endeavour to build success from within.

• Our club will be a family environment where everyone is made to feel welcome and valued. Everyone’s contribution no matter how little is important to us.

That’s just about all for now, I know it’s a bit long winded! Keep watching this space for more news, I hope to see plenty of you at ‘The Lane’ for our first competitive game, which sees us at home to Scarborough in the Yorkshire Shield on the 30th August.

So this is it, perhaps a chance for a fresh start or a new opportunity for some of you, the club is embarking on a new journey and you all have a chance to get on the bus………………………………….. but don’t leave it too late as it might start moving pretty fast!!

Thanks for listening

Fred