Please note that the President’s Game will take place on Wednesday 14th May at 6.15pm. I have already invited most players and some additional non-club stars to take part. The game will be evenly balanced and competitive and there will be food afterwards.

I would be grateful if players wishing to play who have not already advised me and spectators who will be attending let me know so I can prepare the sides and catering accordingly.

Please respond via Richard@chrystalconsulting.co.uk

Regards

Richard Massingham
President

Season Review 2013-14

Ladies & Gentlemen

I hope this email finds you well. As another season draws to a close, I wanted to drop a note to ‘sign off’ on the rugby front, with a quick review, some notable thank yous, recognition of achievements and a nod towards the summer and next season.

2013-14 was always going to be a year of ‘upheaval’ as the development of our facilities became a reality. There is no denying that this year we have had to ‘juggle’ a fair bit in terms of training, equipment, coaching and organisation. A massive thank you to all playing members for their attitude, motivation and commitment in this time, as gradually our facilities have taken shape to the fantastic set up we now have – short term pain for long term gain.

Over 130 players have represented the senior club this season, and to a man with the passion & commitment expected when representing this great club. Whilst there have been challenges, with the 2nd XV & 3rd XV in particular struggling at times for consistency of selection, all teams have represented themselves admirably in their respective leagues given the stress on availability & resource.

The 1st XV really had a season of two halves. Initially hampered by a lack of genuine direction in training & coaching, the team often resembled a group of 18 individuals rather than a core unit. There is the skill in the squad for this to be enough against some of the lower teams in the league but this was found out when playing some of the more experienced clubs. Gradually as the season wore on they found the consistency of selection and partnerships in key areas that saw them finish with strength, a ‘winning’ season and in 3rd position in the league – just missing out on the chance for promotion. Hopefully this confidence and focus can be maintained and expanded as we look to isolate the 25 or so who will make up the 1st XV squad for next year & with the aim of pushing for promotion.

The 2nd XV & 3RD XV have had very similar seasons. In parts gaining notable results against historical big hitters such as Broughton Park, New Brighton & Manchester the teams clearly had the personnel and ability when at full strength. Unfortunately though this was too infrequent and inconsistent selection coupled with not enough players training regularly played its part in both teams struggling towards the lower ends of their respective leagues. That said, both teams avoided relegation & will get an opportunity to put together an improved campaign surrounded by similar company next year.

The 4th XV, admirably guided by Dom Penny and with Pete Wilde as it’s lynch pin, put together a strong season that had numerous highs and demonstration of attacking flair. They finished comfortably in mid table and will be looking to maintain the collective union that is the heart beat of the 4’s.

There are a few thank yous I would like to put on record in recognition of their support in my role this year. Firstly to my leader & good friend Mike Hyde who stands down this year as Club Captain after another successful season. Hydey embodies all that is strong about this club in my eyes and will continue to play a crucial role both on & off the field (if Lesley let’s him ). To the team captains, Simon Wilkins, Andy Reynolds (ably supported by Kev Rook) & Dom Penny who have been at the forefront of keeping the club together on the field this season. To our President Rick Massingham for a variety of reasons & roles but not least for his help to lead selection and communicating with the 130 players already mentioned. I’d also like to mention several senior players who have stepped up and provided me & the club with much needed support and fulfilled roles in this year of upheaval – Tom Makin, Oli Thomas, Enita, Dave Hoare, Dave Foster & Jamie Peacock.

And so to next Season. Having come out of an 18mth period where rightfully the development & facilities have taken priority, the club now has the opportunity to re-focus on the field and myself & the President will be spearheading this to put all the necessary building blocks in place for us to be the best we can be. Congratulations to Tom Makin who has been appointed as club captain for the 2014-15 season – I know I speak for him when I say how much he’s relishing the opportunity & responsibility that comes with the role. Tom will be working closely with myself & Mass to put key structures & processes in place in terms of coaching, training, match day, equipment & selection so that we can not only get back to but over achieve on what we have done previously. We will also look to place greater emphasis on emerging players from our junior section and pulling the club closer together as one until from u7’s – 1st XV.

A lot of this will start now to be in place ready for the start of official pre-season in early July. Before I sign off, a few key dates for the diary that will round the season off.

1st – 4th May Toc H Tour –– Portugal

Wed 14th May Presidents Game – (expect contact from Mass or Si Wilkins – please chase either or if available and not heard)

Sat 17th May Game v Chesterfield RUFC (Hosting a touring side – KO 1PM at the club – Please flag availability)

Sat 17th May Club Dinner – 90th Anniversary

A final thank you for all your support on and off the field – I look forward to playing a part in taking the club forward next season.

Enjoy your summer

Gaz Oakley
Chair of Rugby
Didsbury Toc H RFC

QBE Autumn Internationals

England v Samoa - 22nd Nov 2014 - Don't forget there's a BOGOF offer, so apply soon!
(woodingtrevor@yahoo.co.uk)

SAINSBURY'S 2014 SCHOOL GAMES

Hi All,

Hope you are all well, I am e-mailing with regards to the Sainsbury's 2014 School Games taking place in Manchester on September 4-7th. It is a 12 multi sport event for the UK’s elite young athletes of school age, designed to replicate the feel of 'mega' events such as the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (please see more information attached).

We are looking for volunteers from sports clubs within Manchester to fill the roles of Team Attache & Sport Specific Volunteer (see each roles requirements attached) in their respective sport.

It would be great if you could forward me any contacts within the sports clubs that could be of help in recruiting volunteers or if you work with any individuals that would be interested in volunteering in one of the roles.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Many Thanks,

Kalu Uka
Sports Coordinator
Sainsbury's 2014 School Games

Tel: 0161 234 1336
Mob: 07581177639
E-mail - kaluuka@hotmail.co.uk or k.uka@manchester.gov.uk
(See attached files:
Sainsburys 2014 School Games info.pdf
SSG14 Team Attaches.doc
SSG14 Sports Specific Volunteers.doc