You cannot really look ahead without looking at where you came from, so last weekend, as I saw things, summed up the whole season for the club.
We receive a lot of support on the social front from our one time players and supporters and the 90th anniversary celebration held early in the season at the Village Hotel was a magnificent occasion and the booklet featuring the history of the club was, I hope, enjoyed by all who received a copy. Thanks to the editorial team of Shannon, Pat and that handsome bloke who's name I cannot remember.
However, the playing record of our senior sides was embarrassing and we need to look at how best to avoid a repeat in the future. This does not include the core of young players who were thrust into a situation for which they were not quite ready. Neither do we point the finger at the senior players who should be enjoying the twilight years at a gentler pace but who helped hold things together. Well done also to the committee and loyal club supporters for their contribution.
At the other end of the age scale, which I used to call 'The Stars of the future', our Mini and Junior teams continue to flourish supported by enthusiastic parents guided by Debs.
Back to Saturday, the first game featured our under 15s against local rivals Camp Hill. The skill, determination and fitness displayed by both sides was impressive and the final score of 24 -10 in favour of Yards was not a true reflection of how the game went. A special thank you to referee Dave Hanson for managing the game and players effectively.
The senior team played against Shipston on Stour in an open and entertaining game which we won by 42-20 or something close to that.
This occasion is known as President's Day. After many seasons of service the club, Steve has decided to call it a day. At many clubs the role is just about being a figurehead, but Steve thrives on having an active involvement in guiding the club. Thanks also to 'The first lady', Lynda, for keeping a watchful eye on Steve. We wish him well and hope that he enjoys his plan to widen his general knowledge base in order to gain success in the local Quiz network.
It was good to see so many of our one time members, too many to list individually with one exception, a full back from the dark ages, Keith Beardsmore. Keith now lives close to the Arctic Circle just outside Sunderland.
Enjoy the summer, if we ever get one. If any of our readers would like to contribute to this site, feel free to get in touch.