Post-lockdown period looking exciting for Bognor Rugby Club

Bognor Rugby Club say they’re on course to come out of lockdown in a healthy state – with their community spirit burning bright and promotion the focus for their first XV.
Bognor in action against Eastleigh IIs just before the lockdown / Picture: Derek MartinBognor in action against Eastleigh IIs just before the lockdown / Picture: Derek Martin
Bognor in action against Eastleigh IIs just before the lockdown / Picture: Derek Martin

They are hoping to get the senior squad back for pre-season training in mid-July but won’t rush into any activities before the authorities give the go-ahead.

Club bosses say their finances are in such good order they don’t need to ask for any payment holidays from overheads and have no plans to set up a fighting fund, as many sports clubs have had to do.

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Bognor RFC’s committee have met for the first time since the club closed its doors on March 18. And while sat socially distanced on a sunny evening at Hampshire Avenue, they were able to thrash out a plan for their road to rugby’s return.

Having finished the season prematurely but with all the clubs’ teams ending in a strong position, both in numbers and in league rankings, they are keen to pick up where we left off.

Senior teams are entered in the Hampshire Leagues for 2020-21. The first XV will be pushing for promotion from the Hampshire Premiership and the Royals, third XV and vets are following them over the county border – at least for away games – for their rugby action.

The club aim to extend their facilities to house the growing number of male and female players, and are now running age-grade teams at every age from under-six to under-16. There are under-13 and under-15 girls’ teams and they want to recruit women players who may be seeking a fun, cheap way to get fit after lockdown.

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Senior numbers are strong with more than 30 colts having moved into all three senior teams and mini and youth numbers growing.

The RFU’s roadmap to return to community rugby activity comprises six stages, ranging from Stage A – individual training with one other person - and F, when there can be a return to competitive matches.

Rugby is currently at Stage B. Further progression will be determined by medical and government advice.

Bognor will follow advice and implement guidelines to ensure they comply.

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Previously, the RFU has communicated it was permitted for small family groups from the same household to use pitches for their own personal training – Stage A.

Stage B allows groups of up to six (including a coach/manager/trainer) to train together as long as they adhere to a number of requirements, including social distancing.

Bognor RFC’s Doug Millen said: “At Bognor RFC we felt it might be safer to wait a while longer during the off-season as current restrictions make anything more than fitness training impractical.

“Hopefully with the predicted easing of lockdown on July 4 it may mean Bognor RFC’s senior players can return to pre-season training on July 16. We will make an announcement and invite players, new and old, to training as soon as the date is confirmed.

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“We would, at this time of year, be encouraging all members to take time away from rugby, especially age-grade players in line with their codes of practice.

“We feel that under the current social distancing rules, even though groups of up to six can train together, we have decided we will not mandate any training in groups for Bognor RFC members at this time. As soon as the government and RFU move us to Stage C, we will issue new guidance.”

The club’s HQ remains closed so there is no use of bars or changing rooms. The committee is keeping tabs on the rules and will update members as soon as it is safe and permissible to open.

Millen added: “Unlike a lot of other clubs at the moment, we are in a very fortunate position financially. We have no debts, no loans, no outstanding major invoices... the club is run by volunteers (so no wages to pay) and we have built up a contingency fund to hopefully see us through.

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“With regard loans and the various payment holidays (for rent, utilities etc), we would only be looking at these as a last resort – all we would be doing is kicking the problem up the field.

“I’m pleased and incredibly proud to say we have not had too many membership cancellations but understand why members may need to cancel during these financially tough times.

“We urge all members to contact us if this is the case. We would like to help if we can. For those that have been able to continue with our already very low subscriptions the club and committee would like to thank you all. It really does help the club survive and will help afford to put some of the new Covid-secure provisions in place.

“In the meantime the club’s efforts, along with those of sponsors Rainbows Bognor and Regis Removals, helped raise a staggering £1,588 for NHS Charities through a new special edition shirt issue.

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“I think this really does sum up the spirit of Bognor Rugby Club and you should be very proud to be a part of such a tight-knit family.

“In fact I’ve had a number of people contact me and ask whether we need to set up a fighting fund and volunteering cash to get it started! Again, incredibly generous – and thankfully not required for the foreseeable with the continued membership support.

“We will very shortly be undertaking a professionally led Covid risk assessment to enable us to put all the necessary hygiene and safety provisions in place, ready for opening.

“New standards will be communicated to coaches and players and new signage and PPE equipment will help visitors or all ages feel safe and welcome at Bognor RFC. Keep safe, stay healthy.”

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