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Herts News
News from in and around Hertfordshire

Latest News From Around The County and the RFU

TABARD & SCHOOL OF HARD KNOCKS SEEK YOUR SUPPORT

Tabard RFC is delighted to be afforded the opportunity to introduce a charity challenge to Herts RFU affiliated clubs.Tabard has had a long association with School of Hard Knocks (SOHK) working jointly with the charity in local schools to improve the lives of disadvantaged students.

The programme links the team sport benefits of rugby union with disengaged young people providing reward and opportunity to motivate and support them to re-engage and realise their potential in a school environment. The programme at Tabard involves around 60 students across school years 9,10 & 11 and has been highly successful at significantly reducing the number of school exclusions. 

The club has also benefitted from a number of students joining the club whilst at the same time providing them with a much needed sense of belonging.

Herts RFU and I would be absolutely delighted if we could have your support by having teams from clubs in Hertfordshire participating and if we get enough teams registered we could make a competition out of it based on best joint performance times.

If you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact me on 07710 927617 or email me at rosshopcroft@gmail.com

Best Regards

Ross Hopcroft

 

President Tabard RFC & Ambassador for SOHK

RFU REVIEW OF COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS

 You may not be aware that the RFU through the Community Game Board has formed a working party looking at the county championships. This will cover senior men, senior women, under 20s and age grade representative rugby. The group will be chaired by Tim Miller the RFU council member for the referees societies. The attached document sets out the review groups terms of reference and the timetable for completion of the work and presentation of findings to the RFU council. There are a number of opportunities for the CB, clubs and individuals to engage in the process and we will attempt to keep you informed of the progress and consultations taking place during the process. Initially if you wish to express a view on Hertfordshire’s response then please e-mail the Secretary Simon Embleton (secretary@hertsrugby.co.uk) and copy in the Chairman Adrian Sparks (chairman@hertsrugby.co.uk). This will be discussed on 1st March by the board of Herts Rugby and then on 8th March by the executive of Herts rugby and finally at the general meeting of Herts rugby on 15th March. At that point Herts will make a response. Like the recent Adult Male Competitions Review we are sure they will be a wide difference of opinion within Herts.

This is a genuine review of all the county championships in light of the financial constraints and other factors that will effect the game in future. It is not an attempt to do away with the men’s senior championship by some backdoor route as we have heard rumoured before!

To see a copy of the review groups terms of reference, the make up of the group and the time frame for the group click on this link below.

Adrian Sparks Chairman) 8th February 2021

Oaklands Wolves Rugby Academy - virtual open evenings

Oaklands College are running a virtual open evening for aspiring rugby players looking at possibly joining the Oaklands Wolves Rugby Academy run in partnership with Saracens.  Further information can be found at https://oaklandswolves.com/rugby/

The open evenings are:
Women’s –  Monday 18th Jan @ 18.30

Men’s  – Monday 25th Jan @ 18.30

GRAHAM WALKER LETCHWORTH AND HERTFORDSHIRE

David Williams Remembers Graham:-

Hertfordshire Past President, Graham Walker, a Legend of Letchworth Rugby Club, has passed away after a long battle with cancer. Our thoughts go to his wife Jo, all his family and all his friends at Letchworth and in the wider rugby community.

Graham’s early days of club rugby were at Shelford before he joined Letchworth for a distinguished career as player, coach, administrator and all-round inspiration at his Club. No stranger to setbacks he was told he would never play again in the mid ‘70s after he broke his neck. But, not for the last time, he defied the odds to play for another twenty years, captaining both the 1st XV and 2nd XV.

In 1994, during his last season as Club captain, he took up the reigns as club coach for three years. Moving into club administration he was Chairman for seven years, during which time he revitalised Letchworth’s fortunes.

Graham first became involved with Hertfordshire in 1991 when Daryl Hayler invited him to join the County Clubs Committee which organised, inter alia, the Area matches within the County. He swiftly moved on to the Coaching Committee the next year and then was appointed coach to the County Championship XV in 1995. He served as coach and/or selector for the next 11 years during which the foundations of the County’s recent success were laid.

During his time, Hertfordshire reached the semi-final of the County championship Plate in 2000 and then went on to win the County Championship Shield on their first visit to Twickenham in 2005.

In 2012 Graham’s services to Hertfordshire rugby were recognised when he was elected Vice President of the Union. Then in 2014 he began his two-year term as President. Following his term in office, his sage advice was used in setting up the County’s Leadership Academy in 2017 where he acted as a mentor in the first year.

Apart from playing rugby for Hertfordshire Police, Graham had a highly successful police career, though this too had its share of trauma as he was involved in tragedies such as the Potters Bar train crash, the Kings Cross underground bomb and forensic examination of the aftermath of the 2004 Tsunami.

Whilst Vice President of HRFU, Graham had his first brush with cancer, but proved you can fight the dreaded illness and lead not just a normal but a super normal life. He stated on many occasions that the support from the family of rugby helped him in this effort.

Last February, at one of the last matches at Letchworth before the Covid lockdowns, he was presented with a cap for Lifetime Achievement at the club and more recently he attended the first club functions during the lockdown breaks. Even in the last month or so, whilst in hospital, he continued to send upbeat e-mails and texts to his friends.

Graham’s lust for life and rugby, and his indomitable spirit will be remembered and savoured by all who knew him.

Sudden Death of Janice Brook Bishps Stortford Honorary Secretary

Perry Oliver writes:-

It is with incredible sadness and deep shock that we announce the passing of our erstwhile Honorary Club Secretary Janice Brook


Janice passed away at home this morning (Saturday 14th Nov).

She reluctantly relinquished her position as Club Secretary only two weeks ago when she learnt that the cancer that she thought she had beaten, had returned.

No one expected this news to come so soon

Janice was a longstanding member of our clubs and over the years has volunteered in many administrative roles.

Along with her late husband Robbie she formed a formidable partnership as joint membership secretaries patrolling the clubhouse to identify any reluctant contributors.

People found it very hard to say no to Janice once she had them in her sights

She was a Vice President and rarely missed a home 1st XV match. Always watching the game from behind the posts at the Fire station end.

Unfortunately we have now lost another ‘True Blue’

Our thoughts & prayers are with her family at this time

Rest in Peace Janice.

A Break in Mendoza – An incredible story helping to support RFU Injured Players Foundation

Read how the unfortunate injury to Luke Igolen-Robinson on a school rugby tour to Argentina is now going to be helping other injured players through the RFU Injured Players Foundation.  Luke’s father Carl has written a book detailing their incredible experiences in Mendoza, the support they received from the rugby family, parents, medical professionals and even international players and Luke’s year-long return to fitness.

Herts RFU are proud to have the opportunity to promote Carl’s book and we hope as many of our rugby playing and supporting community will buy a copy.

For full details of the story and where to buy the book, please see the post here

Cheshunt Women's Section Continues to Grow Despite the Covid-19 Restrictions

Some good news amongst the Covid gloom from Cheshunt RFC Chairman Paul Wharton, he tells us that:-
“After some hard work and inventive recruiting our Womens squad has had a great rebirth. Over 15 players (still growing) and 2 R4R fixtures played. They have a new kit with help from Steve at BPC and have had a few bonding social events. More sponsors have been secured for extra stash going forward. We are hoping this continues and they stay an important part of the club.”

NEW WATER TANK AT OLD VERULAMIANS HELPED BY HERTS RFU GRANT

Colin Ashwood (Director of Club Development) reports that recently work was completed on providing a new structure and cladding for the water tank at Old Verulamians  RFC. This work was essential if the club were to continue to play at the ground. Hertfordshire RFU are pleased to say that they were able to give a substantial grant towards the project from funds provided by them and the RFU. The picture shows the new water tower.

PRIDE OF HERTFORDSHIRE

After the end of what became the longest Six Nations ever, Hertfordshire has a right to be immensely proud of not just the whole of England’s Grand Slam winning Red Roses but some specific players too.  With three of the side who played in the championship playing their formative rugby years for Hertfordshire clubs and for Hertfordshire County age-grade sides, we celebrate the achievements of Zoe Harrison,
Hannah Botterman and Helena Rowland.

Starting with Sunday’s debutant, Helena Rowland, she started her rugby journey at Aylesbury and Bicester before moving to Tring RFC playing in the mixed/minis sides before moving across to Welwyn RFC to join their highly successful girls section.  At Welwyn, Helena played in the U15s for two years before moving to the three-year age banded U18s.  With the U15s, she captained the side in 2015 with the team winning the National 7s, being a semi-finalist in the National Girls Cup, winning the Herts 10s as well as winning several festivals.    With Helena’s talents being recognised at Welwyn and at County, it was not long before she was selected to England’s London & SE divisional U15s; Regional squad and the England Talent Development Squad.  Helena then went on to joining Saracens Women’s side before her undeniable talent led her to being selected for England’s Seven’s side and becoming a full-time contracted Seven’s player travelling the worldwide Seven’s circuit.  Unfortunately, the England Sevens programme funding was withdrawn as a result of the impact of Coronavirus on the RFU and, with the Olympics in which the Seven’s team would have featured also being postponed, Helena moved back into the 15-a-side game, joining Loughborough Lightning.  Her impressive early season form as fly-half in the Allianz Premier 15s led her to being selected for her debut on Sunday for the Red Roses.   We’re sure it will be the first of many caps.

Hannah Botterman spent her minis years playing at Datchworth RFC before moving just down the road to Welwyn RFC.  Many who have watched Hannah play as a prop for Saracens and England will know about her great hands and ‘barnstorming’ bursts.  This is no surprise to anyone though who knows she played as a centre for most of her girls age-grade rugby where she frequently burst through opposition defences either scoring herself or using her great offloading skills to set up tries for her teammates.   Her power and skills saw her again move through the player pathway and despite a short period where she questioned her love of the game, her joining Saracens got the love back and at just 18 made her debut in the Saracens side which was the inaugural winners of the Tyrells (now Allianz) Premier 15s and her displays quickly led to a call up to the Red Roses side with Hannah making her debut against Canada in 2017 just six months after her final appearance for Welwyn.  From there, Hannah has continued to impress – so much so that she was awarded a full-time contract with England and has been a superb performer for her country having now won 20 caps. 

Zoe Harrison, like Helena and Hannah played her girls rugby at Welwyn RFC having come via Tring’s minis section and with her successes on the pitch with Welwyn and for Hertfordshire also moved into the player pathway progressing into the Talent Development Squad (TDG) and then moving
into the Saracens squad.  Zoe has had continued success at Saracens being an ever-present member of their hugely successful women’s side being a member of the Premier 15s winning sides in 2018 and 2019.    After making her debut for England in 2017 Zoe’s talent and continued development saw her rewarded with a full-time England contract in January 2019 and has represented England in all of their Grand-Slam winning sides during this Six Nations. 

 

Please join Hertfordshire RFU in congratulating the three girls above who have contributed to the Red Roses Grand Slam success.  They continue in a fine tradition the county has in producing international women’s players (15s).

YearCountryPlayerHertfordshire Club (Girls Rugby)
2019EnglandElena PerryWelwyn
2019EnglandHelena RowlandWelwyn
2018IrelandMegan WilliamsWelwyn
2017EnglandZoe HarrisonWelwyn
2017EnglandHannah BottermanWelwyn
2015EnglandSydney GregsonWelwyn
2015EnglandCharlotte ClappWelwyn
2011EnglandHannah GallagherWelwyn
2011EnglandSarah McKennaHarpenden (minis)

NEWS FROM THE RFU ON ADULT COMPETITIVE LEAGUES

The RFU issued the following statement to clubs and constituent bodies on Friday 30th October 2020.

The RFU Council has today made the difficult decision to cancel the Adult Competitive Leagues (Level 3 and below for Men, Level 2 and below for Women) for the 2020/21 season. We believe that, even if a return to full contact rugby becomes possible, playing a meaningful competitive league season resulting in promotion and relegation is no longer feasible.

Given the Government’s additional restrictions to curb the increase in Covid-19 cases in locations across the country, and growing concerns around travelling significant distances outside immediate localities to fulfil fixtures due to increased risk of transmission, the decision has been made now so we can provide clubs with some certainty for the remainder of the season.

The Championship remains on course to start in January 2021, with this league subject to Government’s Elite Return to Play protocols.

What rugby can we play?

We have been in daily contact with Government about moving towards some form of contact rugby that will enable as many matches to take place as possible.

Steve Grainger, Rugby Development Director, said; “We are very keen to see competitive rugby being played again and have been pushing extremely hard to accelerate a return to contact rugby. However, we also need to be realistic about the prevalence of Covid-19 cases in society and, given the introduction of further regional restrictions, we are working with Government to create alternative solutions.

“Progress has been made following productive conversations with DCMS and the Office of the Deputy Chief Medical Officer who have shown a willingness to work with the RFU to explore other available options.”

Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said: “I know that today’s decision from the RFU will be disappointing to players and fans across the country however protecting people’s health is absolutely paramount. The government is continuing to work closely with the RFU on ways in which we can bring the competitive, community game back in some form ahead of a return to full contact as soon as the public health situation allows.”

Steve Grainger added: “While many people have looked forward to contact rugby returning, we are receiving more and more feedback from clubs and players that adaptations would be acceptable. There is an increasing appetite to play an adapted format of rugby rather than having no fixtures at all.

“We will do everything we can to enable the rugby community to return to contact matches as soon as we can, but our priority is to keep players, coaches, referees and volunteers safe. We will provide an update to our community clubs as soon as we can. We would like to once again thank everyone for their incredible efforts in implementing the necessary changes and for their continued support in keeping formats of rugby going during this challenging season.”

For the current time we remain at Stage D on the Return to Community Rugby Roadmap

Harpenden Under 15 Girls Game Against Fullerians Under 15 Girls Is Covered By The Times!

The recent game of Ready4Rugby between Harpenden girls and Fullerians girls was covered by the Times Newspaper. (on line edition) The brief caption to the picture explains that the reporter was supposed to be at Twickenham for the Barbarians match but as it was cancelled he visited his local club Harpenden.

Changes On The Executive Committee

As we approach the end of October we want to inform you of two changes to the executive committee.  The first is the appointment of David Toon as the Director of Game Development. David stepped down in June 2019 from the role of Director of Rugby after severing in that post for a number of years. Since then he has been DOR at Fullerians and has completed the Leadership Academy. So after a break from the executive he has returned in this, for him, new role. He will take up his duties immediately. I am sure you will join us all in wishinh him luck in his new role.

David Toon our new Director of Game Development

I also regretfully have to inform you of the recent resignation of our Director of Youth Players and Women’s Game Development, Angela Clifford. Angela has resigned on personal grounds and is in the process of moving to the Midlands. We would like to thank her for all her sterling service and wish her well in the future.

Angela Clifford

Staging Games and Events During Covid-19 Crisis an Open Seminar

OPEN SEMINAR ALL INVITED FROM HERTS RUGBY

Staging Games and Events during Covid-19 Crisis

Wednesday 28th October at 7pm by Zoom

A few clubs have stage games of “Ready4Rugby” with other clubs or organised club days based on this type of game. In some cases they have gone as far as having social distanced lunches. These have proved to be good events for drawing income into clubs and for morale in general. There are also some clubs who have been visited by their local council officials and had their premises inspected to see that they and their procedures are Covid-19 compliant.

Hertfordshire RFU encourages these events if they are within the government approved regulations and guidelines. Further it is also Hertfordshire RFU’s policy to share “best practice” and “practical experience” with all its clubs. To this aim Hertfordshire Rugby has organised a seminar for Wednesday 28th October 2020 at 7pm. This will be virtual seminar conducted via Zoom. At it we will have three short presentations from:-

Ross Hopcroft (President Tabard RFC) who recently organised a very successfully “Pitch Up and Play” day.

Nick Turner (Covid Officer for Tring RFC) Tring have been regularly playing Ready4Rugby games against other clubs at all levels and have also held a successful socially distanced lunch.

Birant Osman, (Chair of Hitchin RFC M&Y section) who leads at Hitchin in ensuring they are Covid compliant and who worked with the local Environmental Health Officer when they contacted Hitchin RFC.

 Tim Bonnett the Hertfordshire RFUs Director with responsibility for health and safety will also be present. The event will be chaired by Adrian Sparks the Hertfordshire RFU Chairman. 

After the presentations there will be a question and answer session. It is hoped that all the Hertfordshire clubs Covid-19 Officers will attend along with other representatives from the different sections of the clubs.

To join the seminar please send an e-mail to chairman@hertsrugby.co.uk or secretary@hertsrugby.co.uk and the meeting Zoom link will then be sent to you’

MIKE MUSK - HONORARY LIFE PRESIDENT FULLERIANS - REST IN PEACE

He will be missed- BY SEAN MAHON


It is with great sadness the family of long serving Fullerians Club President Mike Musk announce he has passed away this morning.

Mike has spent literally hundreds of Saturday afternoons at Fullerians over the last 6 decades he’s been involved with the club, he will be hugely missed by all that knew him.

Having hung up his playing boots a few years ago Mike stepped up and carried out many roles through the club ending up at President in 1994 where he has helped the committees along the way to become the club we are today, at the most recent AGM Mike was made Honorary Life President in recognition of the great work he has done for the club.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Rita and the Musk family at this time.

OLYMPIC STAR AND ENGLAND FULL BACK AT CHESHUNT RFC

Simon Embelton of Cheshunt RFC writes:- The last six months have been a difficult time for everyone, so when we got the chance of welcoming an Olympian to our Club, it’s something you can’t turn down. So, on the 1st September, Dwain Chambers offered not only an incredible opportunity to teach some of our players (from U16’s upwards) the technique to run quicker, but also took the time to talk to them about the mistakes that he’s made in the past and his focus now on becoming a role model for youth across the country.

Then on the 10th September, we welcomed England and Northampton full back George Furbank to Andrew’s Lane, to run a kicking masterclass. As a 23 year old up and coming star, he was the perfect next guest to show our lads (including our lady vice-captain, Carly Hay) the various techniques of kicking a rugby ball from hand and off a tee.

George took the time to help all of the attendees by offering simple but effective individual guidance. With our coaches at hand, these wise words (from young shoulders) will be shared with all of our other teams. Having the right sort of role models around our youngsters is vital and George was an ideal candidate, confirming that by getting the basics right is the key to success.

At the end of the session, our head coach Paul Fuller, asked what is was like to be coached by Eddie Jones. George spoke about Eddie’s aim of getting the best out of his players. With arguably one of the finest facilities in the county and further plans on the way, this is the biggest lesson for all of us here at Cheshunt Rugby Club.

These contacts have been tapped into by our “Legends” network, which all clubs will have. It’s a case of “if you don’t ask you don’t get” and with everything going on at the moment, we all need to think of different ways to keep everyone engaged. Numbers were deliberately kept low to adhere to the social distancing rules, which was tough given the names involved.

We already have further sessions with Dwain in the diary and look forward to welcoming back ex-Cheshunt prop Karl Garside (now at Northampton) when scrummaging is allowed again.

Of course, we’re in a very fortunate position to have use of the floodlite RFU 3G pitch, which makes such a difference when the nights draw in and have a local authority that is keen to help us develop our offering to the local community

BARNET ELIZABETHANS RFC CHARITY CYCLE RIDE

Chris Strack of Barent Elizabethians writes:-

This coming Saturday, September 12th, as part of the Pitch Up to Rugby weekend – a group of gentlemen (and one lady) from Barnet Elizabethans RFC will be jumping on their pushbikes and riding relay, visiting all 27 rugby grounds in Hertfordshire. A total distance of approx. 180 miles. We’ll be taking pictures at all clubs on the way and posting on social media as we go. We’d love to get a pic done with any attendees at those clubs on the day – although appreciate it may be a bit of an early arrival at some clubs.

All of the cyclists will convene at Tabard RFC for a glass of something, who themselves are open for the day, at around 17:30 before we all undertake the Champs Elysee ride together back to Byng Rd

Our minis and juniors will be cycling around our pitches to create a grand total of miles covered for the day and we’ll be celebrating together when the peleton arrives home.

My idea – so I’m on the graveyard shift 05:00 -> 07:00 – BERFC->Cuffley RFC->Cheshunt RFC->Hertford RFC (then McDonalds for breakfast)

We’re raising money for our 2 partner charities – Noah’s Ark Hospice and Parkinsons UK and have already attracted social media interest from Mike Tindall and Simon Shaw who are connected with  Parkinsons Uk.

If you can spare a couple of quid that would be great – if anyone wants to jump into a picture on the day – even better. Our schedule is below:

https://www.justgiving.com/team/BERFC-Tour-de-Herts

TIMETABLE OF THE DAY

Barnet Cycle Timetable

NatWest Rugbyforce 5th/6th September

Colin Ashwood Director of Club Dvelopemnt writes:-

It was good to see so many volunteers at our clubs turning out for this weekend’s events. I was impressed by what is going on, and good to talk to people who saw this as a perfect social engagement event to start back to rugby.

9 of our clubs used this weekend as their focus, and the remaining clubs are schedule at other dates through September. I hope to visit you all if possible.

Rather than words, I think pictures say everything. Happy faces and enjoyment made my weekend great.

MOVING TO STAGE D IN THE PHASED RETURN OF COMMUNITY RUGBY

The phased return of community rugby reaches the next step, from Tuesday 1 September, with clubs able to start limited and restricted contact rugby training and organise inter-club non-contact fixtures. This follows the reintroduction of intra-club non-contact rugby union activity at the beginning of August.

The reintroduction of limited contact training has been approved by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (‘DCMS’) and moves the Return to Community Rugby Roadmap from Stage C to Stage D.

The reinstatement of some contact activity is important to ensure players can continue to practice core skills and are able to start preparing and conditioning themselves appropriately as the game starts to return to normality with regular training and matches.

Varied training conditions will allow the return of tackling, lineouts and rucks, ensuring players are prepared to perform these skills safely and effectively with some restrictions. Mauls, scrums, opposed lineouts or upright tackles are still not permissible as the transmission exposure risk remains high. Contact training sessions have to be carried out in small groups of no more than six players. Detail of the permitted training activity is available in the return to contact training guidance and infographic below.
Training Guidance
Infographic
 
 
Within each training session a maximum of 15 minutes will be allowed for all contact training activities (75 minutes being the total maximum time for each session). In the remainder of the training session, players are permitted to undertake socially distanced strength and conditioning activities, small group non-contact skill development drills and/or Touch/Ready4Rugby games (the only other permitted game training activity).

Clubs are also now able to organise non-contact fixtures with other clubs using Ready4Rugby or other Touch formats and should ensure they are appropriately set up and prepared for safely welcoming other clubs and individuals to their venues.

Any return to play and training is a decision for individual clubs to make and they must continue to follow government coronavirus (Covid-19) guidelines, along with any local government lockdown restrictions that may be introduced.
Full Details
 

CLUB CHAMPIONS WEBINAR SEMINARS FOR HERTFORDSHIRE

To download a copy of the invitation click on the box below

STATEMENT FROM RFU ON THE RUGBY DEVELOPMENT WORKFORCE

The RFU, like many other organisations, is facing significant revenue reductions as a result of the Covid-19 crisis.

Detailed scenario modelling shows there may be a short-term impact of £107m in lost revenues in this financial year with a lasting longer-term impact. The organisation is projecting a 4-5 year recovery with cumulative revenue reductions of around 20% based on a difficult economic environment and softer commercial market.

As a result, and in order to safeguard the future of the RFU, the organisation needs to reduce its overall cost base. Unfortunately this has led to the need to reduce headcount. All areas and departments of the RFU are impacted in the proposed reduction in roles. These redundancies are not a short-term cost reduction exercise, the RFU will get through this and our priority is to emerge stronger but the impact of Covid-19 will continue to affect many areas of society for many years to come – this is about the long-term.

A large number of Rugby Development employees are currently at risk of redundancy. The proposed scale of reduction in the Rugby Development department makes it essential that we exploit and explore new ways of working and the difficult and correct decision has been made to remodel the structure. We could not do what is necessary by making marginal adjustments. A total of 185 individuals have been placed at risk with 81 new roles being created.

The RFU is currently in a formal consultation process with all affected employees – more details will be made available once this is completed. It is important to note, the change is not in any way a reflection on the performance of colleagues or a statement about things not working or being ineffective, it is a change of direction necessitated by the impact of Covid-19 and the resulting financial impact.

The proposed new structure is built around ensuring the delivery of the RFU strategy to support the community game. This recognises that the vast majority of rugby is delivered by clubs and volunteers  and that the RFU’s role is to support those clubs and volunteers in doing this. I repeat and emphasise that the community game is the lifeblood of our sport, without a strong grassroots there is no English rugby. The RFU’s focus will be on three key areas of work:

  • CLUB SUPPORT – supporting clubs in operating sustainably through facility/business support, volunteer development, member recruitment and targeted club financial support
  • COACHING & REFEREEING – supporting effective training, qualifications, development & deployment for coaches and match officials
  • PLAYER EXPERIENCE – managing and growing competitions & mass playing opportunities, supporting a strong player pipeline through schools, colleges & universities and initiating targeted player growth & retention

In addition to the above, clubs and participation will no longer just be the domain of the Rugby Development department, it will be a key focus for the whole organisation. Employees will be provided with training and support to be sure the external expectations are managed in the early stages of any change.

The restructure will of course require the RFU to work differently; collaboratively across the organisation and externally with the game (including clubs, CBs and educational institutions). This new way of working with the game will be developed over the next few months but it is likely to involve working more virtually, with less time spent travelling and with greater use of technology. There will be a need to establish a different kind of relationship with member clubs, working more with groups of people and clubs rather than individually. Lockdown has forced so many to work differently and we will need to learn from what has worked successfully and take advantage of new skills.

The community game is critical and the foundations of the RFU – continuing to deliver for the community in the most effective way possible is at the heart of all decisions. The RFU will update on the outcomes following the consultation process.

Herts Referees Society NHS Charity Raffle

New Contact Details For The RFU Legal And Tax Helpline

From the 1st August 2020 the RFU legal and tax helpline and legal document service will move over to Irwin Mitchell (official legal partner to England Rugby). See details below including details of legal webinars with Irwin Mitchell coming up.

New Legal & Tax Helpline. – The RFU are pleased to be able to continue to offer free advice on any legal or tax related matter. As the official legal partner to England Rugby, Irwin Mitchell have taken over the Legal and Tax Helpline. The support also includes an online legal document service, including documents such as employment agreements and privacy notices for your club’s website.

The new legal and tax helpline number is 0333 0100337.

Register to access the legal document service here: https://www.irwinmitchell.com/england-rugby/legal-portal

Legal Webinars

 Webinar: Employment basics for rugby clubs – Thursday 6 August 7pm – 8pm

This webinar run by our legal partner, Irwin Mitchell will answer your employment law questions on the basics of employing and engaging people at your club.

Register for the webinar and you will be automatically entered into a competition to win a signed England Rugby shirt: https://events.irwinmitchell.com/employmentbasicsforclubs?spMailingID=10017297&spUserID=MTY5NjUyMTU4MDAzS0&spJobID=1555032081&spReportId=MTU1NTAzMjA4MQS2

 Webinar: Volunteers and law & zero hour contracts

 Thursday 13 August 7pm – 8pm

This webinar run by our legal partner, Irwin Mitchell will cover the key legal issues in relation to volunteers and those engaged on zero hour contracts at your club.

Register now for the webinar and you will be automatically entered into a competition to win a signed England Rugby shirt.

Register here: https://events.irwinmitchell.com/volunteerslawandzerohourscontracts?spMailingID=10017297&spUserID=MTY5NjUyMTU4MDAzS0&spJobID=1555032081&spReportId=MTU1NTAzMjA4MQS2

   

 

Important Update Bulletin On All Matters Safeguarding Issued by RFU 1st August 2020

The document below is the latest RFU Safeguarding Bulletin. Would all Club Mini and Youth Chairs, Safeguarding Officers and school staff please note the contents.  It has been circulated to Club Safeguarding Officer details from GMS.

200731 Safeguarding Bulleting August 2020

NEW POSTS FOR HATFIELD QE RFC

Recently Hatfield QE RFC had their posts vandalised beyond repair. Due to the Covid-19 crisis they were stretched for funds to replace them. Toby Garrett their Chairman sent out an appeal to Hertfordshire clubs to see if anyone had a spare set of old posts. Sadly nobody did but a number of clubs offered to donate towards a new set of posts. This was picked up by the Hertfordshire RFU who encouraged Hatfield QE to apply for a grant from the fund set up jointly with Hertfordshire and RFU monies to enable rugby clubs to be in a position to reboot rugby when the go ahead is received. Their application for finance was discussed on Wednesday 29th July 2020 at the meeting of the “Herts Emergency Finance Panel” and I am delighted to say that it was agreed that Hertfordshire RFU would purchase from the fund a set of 10 metre steel posts and free issue them to Hatfield QE RFC. The total amount therefore granted was £1750. We all wish them good luck with their new posts.

Latest News On Pitch Maintenance Programme

                                                                Before

                                                                After

Over the past couple of months, we have been helping clubs with necessary pitch maintenance works.

Due to the pandemic, and clubs trying to reduce costs; one of the casualties for some clubs was to be little or reduced investment into the out of season maintenance of the pitches. 

As a CB, we did not have sufficient budget allocated to make the necessary funding, so a proposal to the Executive received agreement, where some of the CB reserves were drawn on. This allowed us to fund a programme to help 11 clubs get needed maintenance to their surfaces. Work mainly consisted of overseeding, weed spraying and fertilizing, with some aeration.

With the help of the RFU Area Facilities Manager (Jason Bowers), we engaged the RFU contractor Total Sports Grounds Solutions to manage and carryout the works.

The CB scoped the work, generally around training areas or second pitches. TSGS have liaised with each club to get best value for the funds available which has been a valuable service.

Tom Redfern To Leave Hertfordshire RFU

It is with sadness that we have to announce that Tom Redfern will leave Hertfordshire R.F.U. at the end of the month to take up a position at Henley College. Tom came to us just over two years ago from Middlesex. He has done sterling work for us in that time and has progressed Herts rugby. In the recent circumstances of Covid-19 and the  uncertainty about the future he has decided that now is a good time to move on. He will be missed but I take this opportunity on behalf of Hertfordshire to wish him well.

As you probably are aware the finances of the game are now in a peril less state after Covid-19 and its potential devastation of the International match revenue stream. I understand that the RFU will be looking to cut the paid workforce in the future and therefore I am not expecting that Tom will as such be replaced at the present time.

RETURN TO COMPETITIVE PLAYING FOR 2020/21 SEASON

There are a range of 2020/21 competition models that can be applied at different season start dates as and when it is deemed safe to return to play i.e. when we reach Phase F on the RFU Return to Rugby roadmap. The models allow for any potential interruption in the season as a result of Covid-19, while providing clubs, schools, colleges, universities and players with a framework for meaningful competitive rugby with greater flexibility to enable games to be
played.
The models were developed by two working groups, one for the adult game and the other for age grade rugby, and the outcomes were approved by the RFU Governance Committee last week. Each group has considered player welfare, flexibility in response to Covid-19, adaptable
models that prioritise local matches early in the season to reduce travel, support club revenue, and maintain player participation. Headlines for each area of the game are laid out below with links to further information and FAQs where required.

ADULT MALE AND FEMALE COMPETITIONS
The competition models are based on three potential start windows depending on when it becomes safe to return to play.
The models vary according to league size and offer flexibility to manage any potential Covid19 interruptions, with the season able to be extended to the end of May if it helps support delivery of a meaningful competition. To further support clubs with flexibility, league rugby will be prioritised over Cup and County Championships.
To best manage the uncertainties around a start date, leagues will be split into conferences from the start of the season i.e. a 14 team league will be split into two groups of 7 teams. In most cases the conferences will be organised geographically to keep travel down to a minimum in the early part of the season, which could also present the opportunity for more revenue generating derby/local fixtures and support player availability. Further details on exact start date windows and how the models will work for different league sizes will be available early next week.


WHAT ARE THE COMPETITION MODELS?


If rugby starts in Window 1: Local competitions first, home and away competitions last.

  • Teams play home and away in their group – in a 14-team league separated into two groups of seven, teams play 12 fixtures.
  • Upon completion of these 12 fixtures, teams play home and away against teams in the other group, meaning teams play a further 14 fixtures (26 fixtures in total).
  • The league winner will be the team with the best playing record from all league fixtures.
  •  NCA teams ONLY – a full regular season of home and away fixtures will be delivered.

If rugby starts in Window 2: Local competitions first, home or away fixtures last.

  • Teams play home and away in their group – in a 14-team league separated into two groups of seven, teams play 12 fixtures.
  • Upon completion of these 12 fixtures teams will play home OR away against teams in the other group, meaning team play a further 7 fixtures (19 fixtures in total).
  • The league winner will be the team with the best playing record from fixtures played in both groups.
  • NCA teams ONLY – a full round of home or away fixtures will be delivered (15 fixtures). At this point the league will be separated into two groups of 8. Teams in the top 8 league positions go into one group and the next 8 teams go into another group. From here, teams play each other home OR away in their group, thus a further 7 fixtures (22 fixtures in total).

If rugby starts in Window 3: Local competitions only, a final playoff

  • Teams play home and away in their group – in a 14-team league separated into two groups of 7, teams play 12 fixtures.
  • There will be a playoff game between the group winners to determine the league winner.
  • NCA teams ONLY – a full round of home or away fixtures will be delivered (15 fixtures) – the league winner would be decided by the results of these fixtures.

AGE GRADE RUGBY INCLUDING NATIONAL COMPETITIONS

The start of the Age Grade rugby season will be dictated by reaching stage F in the Return to Rugby Roadmap (link). The aim is to maximise participation and retain as many current age grade players of all ages and levels as possible. As with the adult game, in the event of a delayed start to the season, the season is able to be extended to the end of May as a one off to support delivery of meaningful activity.
In all the scenarios, player welfare and safety is a priority and activity must continue to be in line with Regulation 15. Players should complete a staged progression aligned with Return to Rugby Roadmap Stage E to be fully contact-ready before playing contact matches.
The Age Grade Playing Calendar 2020-21 and associated regulation remains as scheduled for the season including Player Pathway (DPP, CB and Academy) activity.
Steve Grainger, RFU Rugby Development Director, commenting on the return to competitive play said: “The competition models we’re outlining today demonstrate our commitment to having competitive rugby played in clubs and education settings as soon as it is safely possible. In addition to the competition framework, we are working on plans with Sport England and the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport about how we accelerate some form of a return
to community rugby. We’ll share our work on this with you as soon as it is available.”
Covid-19 has brought about lots of challenges for us all and the RFU seeks to provide support to clubs and the education sector where it is able. In addition to the current support already available to clubs, in 2020/21 a support fund will be made available to clubs experiencing the greatest financial difficulties, details of which it is hoped can be issued in the next few weeks. Funding previously provided for travel expenses within RFU competitions will form part of this fund, but there will not be a specific ring-fenced travel funding payment for the 2020/21 season

RFU RETURN TO RUGBY ROAD MAP, COMMUNITY GAME

RFU TRAINING ADVICE

As a result of further Government guidance on Sunday (Sunday 31st May 2020), the RFU has revised its guidelines on how small groups of players can train.

The new guidance, which is summarised on the attached graphic, says that :

  • Sharing equipment, including balls, is permitted although this should be kept to a minimum and strong hand hygiene practice must be in place at all times.
  • 2 or more groups of 6 players can train provided they are kept separate. There should be no more than 4 groups per full pitch and social distancing and strict hygiene measures must be observed.
  • Parents/carers observing a training session at a distance from a safeguarding perspective are permitted without them being part of the participating group.
  • While multiple small groups can engage in training at the same site, clubs must risk assess this properly and ensure that safe and adequate distancing between groups is strictly observed.
  • People should avoid mixing with too many others from outside their household in a short space of time and care should be taken at all times as there is a continued risk of infection.
  • As physical contact with anyone outside the same household is not currently permitted, playing games remains suspended.

There is no change to the guidance regarding club facilities. Each club should make individual decisions about when their outdoor facilities are ready to open and can be operated safely. Until a club believes it is safe and responsible to reopen, it should remain closed. Indoor facilities such as clubhouses should be kept closed, apart from toilets and throughways. Facilities that are open must follow relevant government guidance. Click here to access a guide which has been prepared in respect of reopening a facility.

Please remember that this revised guidance does not override the existing rules in relation to youth players and the close season.

Peter Brady

Director of Game Development (31st May 2020)

RFU training advice 3.6.20

For a large version of the graphic click on the button below

Open Letter From Chairman Herts Rugby to Secretaries and Chairman of Herts Clubs "Easing of Lock Down"

Since the announcement by the government of “easing of the lockdown” from tomorrow Monday 1st June 2020 I have become aware of a variety of interpretations of this made by different people and applied to rugby. The R.F.U. clearly sets out what this means for rugby in the Community Game Update sent to all clubs on Friday 29th May 2020. This guidance must be followed and there will be no variations to it allowed unless instructed by the government or R.F.U.

The first most important thing to say is that “RUGBY ACTIVITY STILL REMAINS SUSPENDED”. The update goes on to say “However, government advice now states that individuals may, if clubs wish to open their facilities, engage in outdoor field based individual training with members of their own households, or as part of a small group of up to six individuals from different households whilst staying two metres apart. People should avoid mixing with too many people from outside of their household in a short space of time. Any involvement of coaching personnel must be included as part of a group of six people. Care should be taken at all times as there is a continued risk of infection. Given this equipment, including rugby balls, should not be shared with anyone outside of an individual’s own household.”

In simple form the above is set out in the document “Community Game Guidance 200520”, found underneath this letter. It  would be good if you distributed it to anyone who may engage in the activities described so they know what they can and can’t do. I draw your attention to the responsibility clubs have (if they allow these sessions to take place on their grounds) as regards the provision of toilets only, (changing rooms are to remain shut). It would also be helpful if clubs kept a list of those attending these sessions in case anyone involved in a session later shows Covid-19 symptoms and the whole group need to be contacted to self isolate. I also draw your attention to the section on equipment. It clearly says that no sharing of equipment is allowed outside members of the same household and that balls should not be shared between members of different households. Further underneath this letter you will find Step 1 Return to Play 290520 published by the R.F.U. in that it says that “any equipment used must be owned by the individual participant (i.e. use of balls, cones, etc.). From this you can deduce that “club balls, cones etc” can not be used and any ball activity organised in these sessions such as passing can only be done between members of the same household with the ball they provided.


One further reminder from the document Step 1 Return to Play 290520. If any of these sessions involve children then all the safe-guarding measures required in “normal times” STILL APPLY! They has not been any and must not be any relaxing of these measures!

I know you, as we all do, want to return as quickly as we can to normal for the game we love. Tweets by the Culture Secretary that “elite sport returns on Monday 1st June and lists rugby in them” (which is not correct!) do not help especially when they are then picked up by the media and put into a general piece about the return to sport! We must recognise that our sport is a “high contact sport” and therefore participants are at most risk of spreading Covid-19. We all have our part to play and by doing what the government and R.F.U. want us to do and sticking to “the rules” we will prove we can be responsible and therefore speed up the return to normality in our game.

Play Your Part and Keep Safe

Adrian Sparks
Chairman Hertfordshire Rugby Football Union
Hertfordshire Rugby Football Union’s Purpose is “To help our clubs and schools provide and grow enjoyable fully inclusive opportunities in rugby in Hertfordshire”

Step 1 Return to Play 290520

CAN’T READ IT CLICK BUTTON FOR BIGGER VERSION

FULLERIANS MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY

Our Hertfordshire Clubs are making a difference in the community! Here is the latest Fullerians Newsletter showing what they have been doing.

Advice On Working At Home and Mental Health

We know that during this CoronaVirus crisis that a large number of our regular followers and the wider rugby family are having to “work from home” or are “self isolating”. Tim Bonnett would like to share with you two documents that may help your welfare during this time. The first is “Supporting Your Mental Health While Working At Home” and the second is “Wellbeing For Remote Workers”. We hope these help you as they give very sound advice.

Over 120 Attend County Members Dinner

Over 120 people attend the Annual Members Dinner at Prters Park Golf Club on Wednesday 4th March 2020. Below are the women and men who played for Hertfordshire clubs and or county and have gone on to receive International recognition. Chris Kelly (immediate RFU Past President) is seem presenting the awards.

David Williams writes about the men:-

England Counties

Hertfordshire’s full back Nick Hankin (Bishop’s Stortford) played for England Counties on their two match tour two match tour to Georgia in June 2019. Nick was selected on his performance for Hertfordshire in last season’s Bill Beaumont County Championship campaignNick scored a try in the opening game to set up a win over Georgia, but despite a lovely break by Nick to set up a try in the second game England lost a close match by one point.

England Counties U20

Two Hertfordshire players, fly half Luke Bouchier (Nottingham Trent Uni & Chesham) and prop Matt Ramzan (Old Albanian), were included in the England Counties U20 Team that visited Romania for a two match tour in May 2019. They were selected on their performances for Hertfordshire in the Jason Leonard U20 County Championship.Luke got on the scoreboard with two conversions in each game.Both players are still young enough to play for this season’s Stags team, which is undefeated after two matches.

England Counties U18

Fly half Max Brown (Watford GS) and wing/full back Louis Kendrick (Richard Hale, Hertford & Cheshunt) were selected for the England Counties U18 for their matches against Ireland U18 Clubs and Schools in Dublin in April 2019.

Max scored a try which he went on to convert and Louis kicked one penalty and one conversion in the first match. In the second Louis Was successful with two penalties. Louis also made his full County Championship debut for Hertfordshire against Hampshire and both Louis and Max are in this season’s Stags team.

NOTE;- Nick Hankin’s award was received on his behalf by John Allison and Max Brown was unfortunately not available to receive his award.

Angela Clifford writes about the women:-

Helena Rowland played England 7’s
Ellie – Louise Lennon played England U18’s
CeCe Gordon Hill played England U18’s
Kelsey Clifford played England U18’s
Cara Wardle played England U18’s
Hannah Casey played full international for  Ireland
Jodie Rettie played full international Scotland

Helena Rowland

Ellie – Louise Lennon

CeCe Gordon Hill

Kelsey Clifford

Cara Wardle

Hannah Casey

Jodie Rettie

Luke Bouchier

Matt Ramzan

Louise Kendrick

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