Players and supporters of Clifton Rugby Club are already full of expectations of what the coming 2024-25 season will bring.
The 1st team will continue to operate in the National 2 West league, the second XV [Wanderers] will play a good standard of rugby in the Counties league and the third XV [Misfits] in a local league.
The club is looking to recruit players of all abilities across semi professional and amateur standards to enjoy well-structured paying chances and a great social scene!
Benefits include high quality coaching, top level strength and conditioning, player development pathways, regular competitive matches and access to the premiership standard on site LIFT gym.
Anyone interested in joining as a player, taking out membership as a spectator or sponsorship options should contact alisonharvey@cliftonrugby.co.uk
New players should turn up at the club on Mondays preseason / Tuesday in season and Thursday evenings during July and August from 6-30pm
At the end of each rugby season, a team is selected from across each national league. Long serving scrum half Mitch Spencer has been selected for the past season. This is a tribute to his skill and determination. Only injury prevented number eight Brad Talbot joining him.
At the end-of-season dinner lock forward Kei Bergh was presented with the Player’s Player award for the past season with flanker Kofi Cripps receiving the Coaches Player award. Performances by Cripps resulted in a contract with Bristol Bears.
2nd XV award winners were Findlay Hazel and James Taylor with Leo Howard and Jason Grinstead picking up the 3rd XV nominations. Taylor received an award for playing across the three teams reflecting the pathway the club offers for players to develop.
Clifton 1stXV open the season on September 6 with an away fixture at Exeter University
With promotions and relegations sorted the 1st XV away trips will range from Camborne and Redruth in Cornwall to Macclesfield in Cheshire. Clubs that were former traditional opponents will be returning to play Clifton, including Taunton, Cinderford and Devonport Services. Local derbies will feature Old Redcliffians and the Hornets from Weston super Mare.
Preseason fixtures will be announced on the club website and include home matches with Welsh clubs Narbeth and Ebbw Vale. The Ebbw fans will be particularly welcome for their now annual visit and singing well into the evening.
Roger Opie