Dear Southend RFC memberThe 2023/24 season has been a hugely progressive and successful one for our club. There are some fantastic achievements and successes weekly including the Mini & Youth thriving and growing again both in a playing capacity and increase in new members, the fantastic commitment shown by our girls set up, merging with other clubs to secure minutes regularly, our player pathway which is coming into place this summer overseen by Mike Dawson, SouthSEND’s wonderful weekly sessions lead by Ally and his team of volunteers, and then of course the remarkable season our seniors have had.
The Bishops & Cardinals have been superb, regardless of results the people that represent our club are some of the best, they love their rugby, they love the club and they’ve pushed other clubs 2nd XV’s on a number of occasions this season! I’m incredibly grateful for both their efforts and support this season. They’re a huge asset and pivotal part of Southend Rugby Club. The Saints have once again progressed under Paul, Matt and Dave’s guidance. Shelby and Kirsty have also been phenomenal both in their application but also their growth as leaders. Some great results and some disappointing ones put the Saints in a position of positive reflection, stepping forwards, reviewing process, recruitment strategy etc which is exciting. Once again we’re immensely proud of this group, I’m excited to see what they can achieve in the 2024/25 season.
The senior squad have had a historic campaign to date…. And we’re not done just yet!
Having secured three trophies already we are chasing a fourth and a place in the final at Twickenham. The Saxons won the league after winning 21 of their 22 league games, currently unbeaten in 23 in all competitions going into this weekends semi final, whilst the Priors secured the league and cup double last week. The Priors have won 18 of their 19 games this season and is a huge reward for this special groups commitment to each other. I’d like to acknowledge and thank all of the players and staff, trust and belief in what we’re doing. To Tracy, Callie, Lisa, Jackie, Mary, Donna and her team, Nick and Paul for looking after us all this season. To the Tuesday Club who do so much for our great club. Thank you.
This Saturday brings a close to the season at Warners Bridge. A fortress that we have held firm at since March 2023. The semi final sees us welcome Royal Wootton Bassett, a side we have watched and prepped for and a side that have also won 21 of their 22 league games. We’re in for the toughest battle by far this season, but with the reward being a place at Twickenham the following week, we are calling on the city to come out and support their rugby team.
The support this season has been incredible, the noise and backing you have given the players has been telling at times of need, the players feed off your energy. We’re going to need it again on Saturday.
To the M&Y on tour this weekend, have a fantastic trip!
For those able to, please get down, enjoy the pre match lunch, get behind the club and then party into the evening with the live band, "Not The Messiah" (see below) performing in the clubhouse. Reach out to friends and family and let’s make Warners Bridge as vibrant as ever for the players.
We’re 80 minutes from Twickenham, dare to dream!?
Once again thank you for your efforts this season. We’re on the move!
JoshSRFC Director of Rugby
