Yeovil Rugby Club

Chairman’s Update – Senior Men’s Rugby -Yeovil Rugby Club

As we move further into the season, I wanted to take a moment to share an update on our Senior Men’s rugby and reflect on the continued progress across the club.

This year we’re proud to have 50 players registered across our senior men’s squads a fantastic achievement that speaks volumes about the commitment and spirit of our club community. Among them are six returning players who have rejoined after a few seasons away, as well as seven new recruits who have joined the fold and are already making their mark. Two of these players made their debuts in our recent home fixture against Bridgwater, where we secured a convincing win a great reward for all the hard work on and off the pitch.

We’re also delighted to see seven Colts stepping up to senior rugby for the first time a real testament to the strength of our player pathway and youth development programme. Seeing homegrown players transition into senior rugby is something we can all take great pride in.

Coaching and Leadership

Our new Head Coach, Dave Clarke, has settled in extremely well and is getting to grips with both squads. We are fortunate to have him supported by his father, Roger Clarke, an experienced coach who is primarily working with the 2nd XV. We have also recently welcomed Elwin White back to the club a long-standing clubman whose knowledge and experience will undoubtedly strengthen our forward play.

Of course, no update would be complete without recognising Katie Burridge, our Senior Men’s Manager. Katie is the glue that holds the squads together supporting coaching, first aid, logistics, and just about everything else that keeps our teams running smoothly. Her dedication and hard work are invaluable, and on behalf of everyone at the club, I want to thank her for everything she does.

Team Spirit and Progress

It’s fair to say the season started with its challenges, particularly after losing a number of 1st XV players, some to higher-level clubs (to whom we wish every success), others to retirement or work commitments. That said, the squad has shown incredible resilience and positivity.

The morale remains high, the commitment outstanding, and there’s a clear sense of togetherness across both teams. Every week, the players are learning, improving, and showing great support for Dave, Roger, and Katie. The 1st XV are working tirelessly towards that much-deserved first league win, and with their attitude and effort, it’s only a matter of time before results follow.

The enthusiasm, energy, and unity we’re seeing at training and on matchdays give real confidence that the hard work will soon pay off. The future for senior rugby at Yeovil looks bright.

Celebrating Our Heritage – The Alternative Shirt

You may have noticed the Senior Men’s and Women’s teams running out this season in our new alternative shirt, which pays tribute to the club’s rich history. The design combines the traditional colours of both Yeovil RFC and Westlands RFC, in homage to the 30-year anniversary of the clubs’ amalgamation.

We know the shirt won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but the feedback from the players has been overwhelmingly positive, and they’ve really embraced it. Rest assured, we’ll continue to play primarily in our traditional black and white quarters, but the alternative strip gives us a fresh look and celebrates the shared history that defines Yeovil Rugby Club.

As is tradition, we’ll refresh the alternative kit every couple of seasons.
All club kits are available to purchase online through the O’Neills online store, and we also have commemorative 30 year ties available to buy from behind the bar a perfect way to show your club pride.

In Closing

As always, I want to thank everyone, players, coaches, volunteers, supporters, and families, for your continued support. The sense of community and commitment across the club is what makes Yeovil Rugby Club such a special place to be.

Here’s to building on the strong foundations already in place and celebrating what promises to be another great season for Yeovil Rugby Club.

Paul McHugh
Chairman – Yeovil Rugby Club

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