The club has worked hard to ensure a steady growth in senior players over the past couple of seasons, supported by the RFU and Sport England who have invested heavily in the club's facilities with installation of new floodlights and drainage. The club also won an RFU and hosted a training session delivered by Gary Street, coach of the World Cup winning England Womens Team. The resulting influx of players led to the 2nd XV finishing in 3rd place Division 4 South last year, and allowed the 3rd XV to achieve their aim of playing games last season.

The 3rd XV, who will play in Division 5 South will be captained by Tom Fuller, assisted by the experienced and able Arron Thomas and Jamie Simmons as Vice Captains. Fuller said:
"I can't wait to get started. It was an honour to be asked to take on the 3s captaincy last year, and I'm looking forward to leading the team out every week. I only started playing a couple of seasons ago, but this club has certainly helped give me the bug"

For the first time, the 3rd XV will be joined in the Raging Bull leagues not only by the 2nd XV (Division 4 South) but also the the 1st XV, who move to Division 3 South for the first time. Reflecting on the changes, club captain Mike Gallagher commented:
"Having all three teams playing regular rugby in the same structure will be great, and we can genuinely offer rugby for all ages and ability - whether an occasional social game, as part of a regular first team or in our mini and junior teams. We've already seen the development of plenty of players and I look forward to seeing many more come through".

The upcoming Rugby World Cup in England in September presents a great opportunity for rugby in Manchester, and with the help of RFU initiatives such as Festival of Rugby and O2 Touch, the clubs is confident it can offer anyone interested an opportunity to play - regardless of age, ability or the time the can commit. Alongside three senior teams, the club has a thriving junior section catering from ages from U6 upwards.

If you are new to rugby, fancy getting involved again after a break or are a current player just looking for a change of scene, get in touch! We are a small friendly and social club with something for everyone - regardless of age or ability. Games take place every Saturday afternoon through the season, with training on Tuesday evenings. Mini and junior sessions take place every Sunday throughout the season - keep an eye on the website for more news!

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Old Bedians RUFC, Millgate Lane, Didsbury, Manchester, M20 5QX
www.oldbedians.co.uk
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