I have taken some time to reflect over what was my third year as Chairman and reflect on our progress. Initially my role was to rescue the dire finances of the Club and ensure its continuity whilst recognising the steep costs of playing at Abbeydale. It has been difficult to find a balance between not being too confrontational in a volunteer environment and possibly too dictatorial to get things done. There needs to be more clarity of roles for one and all, a vision of the future, a clear structure, achievable stated goals enabling us to measure our successes and failures.

This must start with the Clubs stated playing ambitions and we have seen a monumental shift in the playing standard over the last thirty years which no longer guarantees us first choice of new players arriving in the City. The first team is important but not the only thing that matters. Sheffield RUFC is a Club and should stand as such, we should look to develop and retain the outstanding young players that pass through our ranks. We are not in a financial position or mind set to pay players that would gain immediate promotion through to the National Leagues, so we will develop long term from within as both players and coaches. For me the stated playing objective of the Club should be ' To play at the highest level possible with the focus on developing and retaining home grown talent'.

The current integration plans seeing ex and current Colts training with the Seniors first hand is of massive significance to the Club. It is vital that they are made welcome as part of the Senior Club and whatever team they play for they should feel very much part of the Club and be proud of their achievement. This strategy starts and finishes with the Director of Rugby, who will be the Chairman of Selectors and his role is to implement the Clubs stated ambitions. He will be accessible to Age Grade rugby, integrating within and promoting players through the ranks. Then the Clubs Head Coach will lead by example in embracing the DOR’s implementation plans. His coaching sessions will include the young lads giving them the benefits of an integrated club.

To assist the Vision of integration a new role will be introduced as Integration Coordinator, working with both the Senior section, and coaches of the Colts.
Better coaches = Better players. The Club needs as many qualified Coaches at the highest level possible to implement its desired playing ambitions, and the role of Club Coaching Coordinator is pivotal to its success, this role requires working with both the DOR and the Head Coach and importantly with all the Age Grade Coaches. Let's look at getting everyone concerned in coaching, qualified to the right RFU Levels.
Better Referees = better respect. We have a great reputation at Sheffield from Referee's at all levels and this is something we must continue throughout as for me it is a stand out issue in our amateur sport. The role of Referee Coordinator is a task of huge significance going forward as we enhance our reputation and equally encourage all to play a fair, well run game of Rugby.
An e-mail will follow in the next 2/3 days concerning these appointments.

In summary I would like to see our Club stating clearly its intention to deliver the best rugby possible to our Community throughout all sections. This needs the help and input of many as we look to go through the 1000 member barrier, but also a shift in attitude and focus as the Club embraces its real wealth - talented juniors. If this can be achieved we have huge potential and the possibilities are endless but we need everyone on board and whatever you feel you can offer in any role then you will be warmly welcomed.
Your thoughts and comments are welcome,

Andrew Langdale
Chairman Sheffield RUFC