Old Yardleians RFC: Club News
WHAT SECOND ROW PLAYERS USED TO BE LIKE
Wed, 21 May 2014 12:00
MICK BLOXHAM
For those of you too young to realise it, that big bloke you see on the touchline at nearly every match, club tie and blazer loyally worn, is approaching a 'Big Birthday' and any Old Yardleian with any sense of respect will be joining him at the club on Saturday 28th June to celebrate his 65th Birthday, which, not too long ago, there was some doubt that he would make it there himself.
Mick lives somewhere near to the North Pole in a place called Erdington. But he realised in good time that he would enjoy his rugby more if he affiliated to our wonderful club. My early memory of playing alongside him was in the very first Old Ys 15-a-side competition which we won as you should know. Mick was a traditional second row player, that meant scrum, line-out and serious drinking. Linking up with the backs would only have been by coincidence. The only lifting seen at the line out was lifting onto a stretcher any concussed opponent due to a Blox or Big Al elbow or fist.
It is great to see Mick at matches with the other experienced touchline pundits and he is usually correct with his analysis of players and referees.
His party details are something along these lines.
Saturday 28th June, from 2 P.M till very late. A BBQ will satisfy your hunger and a nice glass of Brew XI will aid your thirst. There will be two live bands, hopefully not at the same time. Mick does not want any gifts but would appreciate it if you would donate, by cheque seems best, to either 'British Heart Foundation' or to 'Cancer Research UK'.
League opposition next season.
If our information is correct, we will meet the following clubs in Midlands Two West/South. Previous encounters have mostly been due to league or cup situations rather than as a result of long-term tradition between our clubs.
Banbury
Droitwich
Leamington
Malvern
Newbold
Nuneaton Old Eds
Old Coventrians
Old Laurentians
Old Leamingtonians
Pinley
Spartans.
We look forward to the challenge.