THE excitement and pride in Clifton securing promotion barely subsided when the fixture list for the 2025-26 season was received. Planning was already under way for the coming season and preseason training began at the end of June.
While most of the successful 1st XV squad have re-signed some recruitment is under way with speculation over who might be joining the new campaign. Warm welcomes are being extended to players of all abilities ranging from those aspiring to challenge for places in the National One side to those seeking a more social and amateur Saturday on the pitch.
Before the real business gets under way with a home fixture on Saturday September 6 – when the famous Blackheath club will be at Cribbs Causeway – there will be preseason games on August 9 and 30 when our visitors will be Caerphilly and Ebbw Vale
Over the summer more Clifton Village businesses have joined the list of sponsors and advertisers in the club’s quest to secure the income required to meet the additional costs of overnight stays and travel in League One stretching from Plymouth in the South West to well known clubs in the North such as Rotherham and Sale.
Long standing supporters include Simon Quarrie from the Clifton Sausage and Steve Bullimore from InStep Shoes
Simon said: “It was fabulous to see Clifton RFC doing so well last season and getting promotion. We’ve been supporting the club through our Man of the Match award for well over ten years now and our involvement with Clifton has never been stronger. This season we are also sponsoring the team’s warm up kit and a sign board at the ground. The club’s welcoming, sporting and inclusive outlook and the number of friends we have made there make it a pleasure to support.”
Steve said: ” I have been supporting CRFC for 15 years and for the 2025/26 season am sponsoring young player Harry Delaney as I feel the sport’s future remains with those who are in their initial stages. The club excels in the development of young players.
The club has an extremely competent committee and an inspirational coaching team. Emerging players and experienced semi professionals thrive together to provide exciting and exhilarating wonderful match day occasions “
Commercial manager Alison Harvey alisonharvey@cliftonrugby.co.uk is always open for a chat with potential supporters, sponsors or players.
Roger Opie