The RFU announced last night that “with the exception of Premiership, Championship and Premier 15s rugby, no organised* RFU or non-RFU Leagues including merit tables, adult or age grade competitions will be played before January 2021 at the earliest.”

So, what does that mean for Hertford RFC?

We may not be able to play competitive contact rugby yet but we can organise games under the Ready4Rugby rules - allowing 10-a-side touch competition - and we can already introduce a limited element of contact into training (in the appropriate age groups). Our coaches are all working hard to make training fun and beneficial to all in these strange times and it’s great to see them pooling ideas to benefit the whole playing membership; from the U6s to our senior players.

We carry on moving forward with our fitness and skills ready for a return to normal, or the ‘new normal’ whenever that may be.

Our minis and youth players returned in good numbers in September along with the senior sides who have been training for some time. To facilitate that we have had to invest heavily in the PPE required for the players, our coaches, parents, spectators and other visitors to Hoe Lane to participate in this great game safely.

Our executive board had already worked out a series of plans and budgets to cover many scenarios, including a “worst case” of no competitive rugby at all this season. I am pleased to announce that financially, although it will be extremely difficult, we will be able to weather the storm. We have had the benefit of very prudent treasurers throughout the club for some years and are in a position where we have some resources to draw upon. With the support of our members, sponsors and patrons we anticipate we can come through even this bleakest prediction. You can help by making your usual financial contribution.

Our bar is open and Covid-compliant. A lot of effort has gone into making sure we can serve drinks and food safely, and we would encourage you to visit when you can. Every drink and hotdog purchased helps. The guidelines to follow can be found on the website.

More than ever I would ask that we remember we are One Club; we are stronger together, and together we will come through this with our great community club intact.

I hope to see you all soon, at a safe social distance!

Keep well.
Karen Newbury
Chair HRFC
For and on behalf of the board of HRFC