Basingstoke RFC ‘Volunteers and Members – Make & Amend’s’

Looking to reduce operational costs we have as a club looked to energise our voluntary member and non member workforce. ‘Make & Mend Days’ are at the weekend in the off season, normally a Saturday. The Committee work to distil a list of jobs that need to be completed and put out the call to the club across all age groups Men, Women, Girls, Boys and Mini’s. We have picked out three dates so far this summer the first was Sat. 20th June followed by the 27th June and the 11th July.

We meet at the club circa 10.30am and push through to around 4.00pm. Normally followed with some form of well earned refreshments ( age applicable – obviously 🙂 )

The jobs include washing down and painting changing room walls, showers and toilets; Repairing garden furniture and club seats, strimming the grass borders around the club footprint, washing curtains in the clubhouse, window cleaning, placing safety signage in the car park, cleaning rugby training kit such as tackle pads, post protectors and tackle shields.

Last Saturday 20th June we estimate that our volunteers delivered over 100 hrs of free labour resource. We have already received 21 volunteers names for the next event (27th June) which include Mini’s Mum’s & Dad’s, youth across all age groups and Senior squad members from the Ladies and Men.

We purposely mix the volunteer work teams to build friendships and team spirit across the different age and gender groups (with the relevant safe guarding in place).

Our Goal is to try and save £3-5k in annual refurbishment costs, energise and exercise our volunteers, make it fulfilling…., but most of all FUN.

The club pays for sources the cleaning materials, paint, bushes and rollers etc. the volunteers just make sure that they are dressed for the occasion and come with a large measure of ‘Elbow Grease’.

Many of our volunteers who are professional tradesman also arrive with their own tools and fix some quite complex refurbishment challenges that have a significant cost saving.

 

Hampshire Rugby Volunteers Recognised at Special Celebration Event

More than 90 volunteers and invited guests from across Hampshire came together at Winchester RFC to celebrate the outstanding individuals who make rugby happen across the county at the RFU’s annual Volunteer Recognition Event.

Volunteers are the heartbeat of rugby, dedicating countless hours to everything from coaching and refereeing to maintaining pitches, running clubhouses, organising events and creating welcoming environments for players, members and supporters alike. Their passion and commitment are what keep the game thriving at grassroots level.

Each year, the RFU encourages clubs to nominate individuals and groups for its Volunteer of the Year Awards, supported by Switch Car Rental. The awards recognise volunteers across three categories:

  • Unsung Hero – for those who go above and beyond, often unnoticed, to make rugby happen and improve the experience for everyone involved.
  • Game for All – celebrating volunteers who have developed inspiring initiatives to make rugby more accessible and attract new audiences.
  • Keeping Players in the Game – recognising those who have played a crucial role in supporting player retention and helping people stay involved in rugby at key transition points.

This year, more than 100 Hampshire volunteers were nominated by their clubs for the awards. To recognise their incredible contribution, Hampshire RFU invited nominees and guests to a special evening of celebration and thanks at Winchester RFC.

The event began with a welcome drink, providing an opportunity for volunteers from across the county to connect, share stories and celebrate their achievements together. Throughout the evening, nominees were recognised for the countless hours they dedicate to supporting their clubs and local rugby communities.

Guests also took part in a Hampshire RFU raffle, with prizes including a pair of Men’s Six Nations tickets, a Hampshire RFU stash voucher, and, as ever, a selection of refreshments that proved extremely popular with attendees.

Among this year’s nominees, a shortlist of 5 were put forward to the RFU for national recognition:

  • Gemma House – Locksheath Pumas RFC
  • Harry Andrews – Aldershot & Fleet RFC
  • Leonie Randles – Romsey RFC
  • Nigel Spencer – Hampshire Rugby Referees
  • Stefan Hargrave – Trojans FC

The RFU selected Gemma House and Harry Andrews as a national finalists, and will now attend the RFU Volunteer of the Year Awards at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, in September.

Hannah Avoth, Director of People at Hampshire RFU, said:
“Hampshire RFU is delighted to celebrate and recognise the amazing contribution of our volunteers across Hampshire. These awards are a really simple and visible way for clubs to thank their volunteers, and we hope to see even more nominations in future years.

“Each of the nominees should be hugely proud of being recognised by their club. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our sport, and it was fantastic to welcome so many dedicated people to this year’s celebration event. We wanted to recognise not only their nominations, but also the passion, time and energy they bring to the game week in, week out.”

Martin Wilson, CEO of Switch Car Rental, added:
“Switch is proud to support the Volunteer Recognition Programme. Without the dedication of volunteers at every level of the grassroots game, the sport we know and love wouldn’t be able to survive. Well done to all those nominated for this year’s Volunteer Awards.”

The Volunteer of the Year Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the individuals who often work behind the scenes but whose efforts are essential to the success and growth of rugby. Hampshire RFU would like to thank every club that submitted nominations and congratulate all those recognised during the evening.

We look forward to celebrating even more of Hampshire’s rugby volunteers in the years ahead.

 

Hampshire Crowned Bill Beaumont Division 3 County Champions

Hampshire RFU Senior Men have been crowned Bill Beaumont Division 3 County Champions after an outstanding 40-26 victory over Leicestershire in a fast-paced and entertaining final.

The triumph marks the culmination of a remarkable 2026 campaign that has ushered in a new era for Hampshire representative rugby. Built around an open nomination process, a fresh culture and a commitment to representing the breadth of the Hampshire rugby community, the squad brought together players from more clubs than ever before. The result was a team united by opportunity, connection and immense pride in the county jersey.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Rudi Kochanowski and his coaching team of Liam Perkins, Matt Wake, Rich Neill and Team Manager Jordan Cracknell, supported by our physios Suzi le Voi and Carly Jolley, Hampshire produced a performance worthy of champions.

Tries came from Rory Penfold, Tom Fieldsend, Ben Turner and Struan Robertson, while Leo Tongue crossed twice. Tongue’s second was the standout moment of the afternoon – a highlight-reel score that saw him gather the ball directly from a restart and race away to score, restoring Hampshire’s advantage immediately after a Leicestershire try.

Throughout the campaign, Hampshire’s defining strength has been its collective spirit. Players, coaches and clubs embraced a shared county identity, creating a resilient and connected squad that captured the imagination of supporters across the county.

The 40-26 victory not only secures the Bill Beaumont Division 3 title but also provides a fitting reward for a group that has helped reignite pride in county rugby across Hampshire.

The Owton’s Player of the Match was incredibly difficult to award after so many standout performances……..from the hard carrying and defensive of work of Karter Whittock, to the clinical finishing of Leo Tongue and the tactical play & kicking of Tom Meyer, every player deserves recognition, but the award went to Sam Olie who’s outstanding performance in attack and defence was a cornerstone of the day.

A huge thank you to the traveling supporters who created a great atmosphere and also to our programme sponsor Owton’s Family Butchers and to the match day polo sponsor Solent Commercial Management Ltd. The amazing match day images were provided by WindandSurf Images and are available here.

Supporters can relive the full match on the RFU YouTube channel: RFU YouTube channel match replay.

 

Hampshire RFU Schools Touch Festival Brings Together 12 schools and 140 Young Players in Pilot Event

Hampshire RFU, on behalf of Hampshire Schools RFU, proudly hosted its inaugural Year 5/6 Schools Touch Rugby Festival, bringing together 140 children from across the county for a fantastic celebration of rugby, teamwork and participation.

Following local School Games competitions, 12 schools from across Hampshire were invited to take part in the pilot festival, creating an exciting opportunity for young players to represent their schools and enjoy a day of competitive touch rugby.

The event was organised by Hampshire RFU’s Executive Director and expertly scheduled by School Rugby Manager (Havant, Gosport and Portsmouth), Luke Worthington, who used Tournify to ensure a smooth running order.

A team of 16 student leaders from Barton Peveril College played a pivotal role throughout the day. Having received training in college pre event, the leaders delivered warm-up activities, officiated matches and helped create a positive and enjoyable environment for every player involved. Their enthusiasm made them excellent role models throughout the day, demonstrating the TREDS values in the way they led, supported participants and represented the game.

Hampshire RFU would like to thank County Women’s Team Manager and Trojans Safeguarding Lead, Vicki Berry, alongside Trojans Youth Chair and Hampshire RFU Young Rugby Ambassador Champion, Dan Power, for their support in delivering the event. A huge thank you to Trojans FC for hosting the event – especially marking out the pitches.

The participating schools were:

  • Cherbourg Primary School
  • Fair Oak Junior School
  • Liss School
  • Ludlow Junior School
  • Matchwood Primary School
  • Padnell Junior School
  • Queen’s Inclosure Primary School
  • Ropley Church of England Primary School
  • Spring Hill Primary School
  • The Crescent Primary School
  • Townhill Junior School

Throughout the day, teams competed in round-robin pool stages before progressing to final placement matches against teams from the corresponding pool positions, ensuring every school enjoyed meaningful and competitive rugby. Every child left with a smile and a medal!

The festival demonstrated the growing appetite for touch rugby within Hampshire schools and highlighted the positive impact that strong partnerships between schools, volunteers, colleges and rugby clubs can have on providing memorable sporting experiences for young people. A show of hands demonstrated that less than a third of the 130 children played in a community rugby club and as a result Hampshire RFU is sending the schools a list of clubs local to their catchment areas to help encourage transition to club rugby.

Hampshire RFU would like to thank all players, teachers, volunteers, officials and supporters who contributed to the success of this pilot event. We look forward to building on its success and welcoming even more schools to future festivals.

Festival Winners: Queens Inclosure Primary, Waterlooville

Hampshire RFU Senior Men Reach Twickenham Final After Thrilling Semi-Final Victory

Hampshire RFU 37 – 36 Oxfordshire RFU
Bill Beaumont County Championship Division 3 Semi-Final

On another scorching afternoon at Havant RFC, Hampshire RFU Senior Men secured their place in the Bill Beaumont County Championship Division 3 Final with a dramatic 37-36 victory over Oxfordshire RFU.

While not quite matching the scoreline of last weekend’s encounter against Surrey, this semi-final had everything else – momentum swings, physicality, attacking flair and a nail-biting finish that kept supporters on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

The visitors made a strong start, crossing for a try after just three minutes to underline the threat posed by their dangerous broken-field runners. Hampshire, however, gradually worked their way into the contest, with the game developing into a fascinating contrast of styles. Oxfordshire looked to exploit space and counter-attack opportunities, while Hampshire relied on their well-structured and powerful forward game to gain control.

As the half progressed, strong Hampshire play at the breakdown forced a number of penalties, and Oxfordshire were reduced to 14 men shortly before half-time when a player was shown a yellow card. Hampshire’s pack then asserted itself and after a series of powerful carries, helped the hosts dominate the closing stages of the half. That sustained pressure was rewarded on the scoreboard as Hampshire overturned the early deficit to take a 27-19 lead into the break.

Hampshire extended their advantage early in the second half with a penalty, but Oxfordshire refused to go away, responding with a converted try to keep themselves firmly in contention. Both sides continued to trade scores in a fiercely contested encounter, with momentum shifting back and forth throughout the half.

As the pressure mounted, Hampshire found themselves on the wrong side of the referee too often, conceding a succession of penalties and eventually receiving a yellow card that left them defending with 14 men for the final ten minutes.

The visitors took full advantage of the extra man, crossing late and adding the conversion to narrow the score to 37-36 and set up a tense finale. With Oxfordshire pushing for one last opportunity, Hampshire’s forwards dug deep and wrestled back control of possession in the closing moments. From there, scrum-half Tom Fieldsend, captain and Player of the Match, kicked the ball into touch to spark celebrations and confirm Hampshire’s place at Allianz Twickenham.

The victory means Hampshire RFU Senior Men will now travel to Allianz Twickenham to face Leicestershire RFU in the Bill Beaumont County Championship Division 3 Final. Kick-off is at 11am, with further details to be announced later this week.

Hampshire had two new caps playing today; Max Wheller and Brad Caparo and also two players who received their 7 match caps: Tom Blewitt and Karter Whittock.

Hampshire RFU would like to thank Owtons Family Butchers for their continued sponsorship, WindandSurf Images for providing match-day photography, and all the supporters who made the journey to Havant RFC and helped create such a fantastic atmosphere.

 

Hampshire RFU Match Reports vs Surrey: Men Progress to Semi-Finals, Women Gain Valuable Division 1 Experience, U17 Boys Finish Unbeaten

Over the weekend, Hampshire RFU faced Surrey Rugby across three competitive county fixtures, played in challenging hot conditions.

Hampshire Men Secure Semi-Final Place

On Saturday 23 May at Havant RFC, Hampshire Men secured a thrilling 51–48 victory over Surrey to book their place in the semi-final of Division 3 in the Bill Beaumont County Championship.

Hampshire made a strong start and built an early lead, but Surrey responded well to keep the contest close throughout. Despite a number of yellow cards disrupting momentum at times, Hampshire managed the game effectively during the second half and held on for an impressive win.

The bench made a significant impact after the break, with Player of the Match CJ Fiern of Andover RFC contributing strongly in both attack and defence.

Half backs Tom Fieldsend (9) and Tom Meyer (10) also led from the front, controlling the tempo and territory with great kicking and decision making during key moments of the match.

The result means Hampshire will now face Oxfordshire Rugby Football Union in the semi-final on Saturday 30 May at Havant RFC, kick-off 3pm.

ALL SUPPORT IS WELCOME! 

Valuable Experience for Hampshire Women

On Sunday 24 May, Hampshire Women travelled to Esher Rugby to face Surrey Women in even hotter conditions.

Hampshire started positively and took an early lead, but Surrey’s direct midfield play, combined with a high penalty count against Hampshire, made it difficult for the visitors to maintain momentum, with Surrey winning the contest 35-12.

Natasha Bullock was named Player of the Match after leading from the front with a try and a committed defensive display.

There was also an impressive attacking performance from second row Sophie Slimm, who consistently caused problems for the Surrey defence with ball in hand.

Although the result did not go Hampshire’s way, the squad will take plenty from the experience. Competing in Division 1 has represented a significant step up for a young group of players, and the campaign has provided valuable learning opportunities to build on moving forward.

Hampshire Under 17 Boys Finish Campaign Unbeaten

Hampshire RFU Under 17 Boys hosted Surrey in the final match of their season programme at a sun-soaked Havant RFC.

As in their previous two fixtures, Hampshire started exceptionally well, putting into practice the patterns and structures developed over the past eight months.

Their power, pace and precision produced an outstanding opening 35 minutes, with Hampshire establishing a deserved 24–12 lead at half-time. Despite this, Surrey remained dangerous opponents and mounted an impressive comeback after the break.

Surrey scored 17 unanswered points during a high-quality second half to take a 29–24 lead with just five minutes remaining.

However, Hampshire showed great character and resilience in the closing stages. Despite the heat and the demands of a long season, the squad rediscovered their rhythm at the crucial moment, scoring two late tries to secure a dramatic 36–29 victory and complete an unbeaten campaign with three wins from three.

Beyond the result, the match was an excellent advert for Under 17 county rugby, with both sides playing competitively and in great spirit throughout.

Hampshire Under 17 Boys Scorers

Tries: Rhys B, Jack M, Matt P, Tom R, Reece M, Taeg N
Conversions: Louis C x2, Finlay W x1

Thank You

Thank you to Owtons Butchers for their continued support of our Senior rugby programme and to Windandsurf Images for the excellent photographs across the weekend, and to Romsey RFC and Portsmouth RFC for the use of their minibuses.

Finally, thank you to all the supporters who travelled and backed both squads throughout the weekend.

Match Report – U17 Boys vs Sussex

Hampshire RFU U17 vs Sussex

On Sunday 17th May, Hampshire U17 travelled to Horsham to face Sussex U17 in perfect conditions for a fast-flowing game.

From the kick-off, Hampshire dominated possession and territory, but outstanding Sussex defence prevented them from turning pressure into points. Moving into the second quarter, Hampshire regrouped and finally broke the deadlock with a superb flowing move that resulted in a try in the corner. A successful penalty shortly afterwards extended Hampshire’s lead to 8–0.

The second half proved to be a very different contest, with Sussex coming out with real intent. They scored two tries, converting one, to take a 17–8 lead and put Hampshire under pressure.

The response from Hampshire was immediate. A well-worked try brought them back into the game, narrowing the score to 17–15 with ten minutes remaining. Hampshire then took control, pinning Sussex back deep in their own half with sustained pressure and excellent territorial play.

With just five minutes left on the clock, Hampshire produced the decisive moment of the match. A sweeping move from one side of the pitch to the other ended with a superb try to reclaim the lead at 20–17 — a score they held onto until the final whistle to secure a hard-fought victory.

 

Hampshire RFU U17 vs Middlesex

First Match in Hampshire colours for our Under 17’s, what a match and what a performance…..

From the first kick off Hampshire’s defence effort was outstanding, our second rows put in a valiant display around the break downs and in open play covering a lot of ground. Ball in hand Hampshire’s back looked sharp and elusive.

Hampshire’s first game was a mixture of penalties against and a lot of open play running, once we found our feet at the breakdown the penalty count dropped and we were dominant and secure.

Scrummaging tends to be a core of Hampshire rugby and it was apparent from our first scrum that we had the upper hand, this was down to being tight and low and as a unit working together which a credit to all the players involved and the coaching that clearly has been taken on board.

The backs found space at every opportunity and attacked well, once around the outside Hampshire looked vastly dominant.

Hampshire’s backs played with confidence and conviction sometimes the finishing pass wasn’t there, however for Hampshire first game the attacking prowess was impressive and shows a fantastic showcase of ability and teamwork.

Luke Montague
U17 Team Manager

Growing Rugby in Primary Schools Across Portsmouth, Gosport and Havant

As schools continue to prioritise physical literacy, wellbeing, and character development, rugby offers a powerful vehicle to support all three. Across Portsmouth, Gosport and Havant, there is a significant opportunity for senior leadership teams to embed rugby as a meaningful and sustainable part of school life. This is not about producing elite athletes; it is about developing confident, resilient, and respectful young people.

Below are four key themes to support growth in schools.

1. Interschool Festivals and Competitions

Regular festivals and competitions provide purpose and excitement for pupils while strengthening school identity. A well structured calendar of inclusive, development focused events ensures that rugby is accessible to all, not just the most able.

These festivals emphasise participation, teamwork, and enjoyment, aligning with broader school priorities around inclusion and engagement. They also create natural milestones for pupils and teachers, building momentum and sustained interest throughout the year. Already this academic year, over 400 boys and girls representing 40 local schools have participated in rugby events primarily hosted at Havant, Portsmouth and Trojans rugby clubs.

2. Training Staff to Deliver Rugby in Schools

One of the most common barriers to rugby delivery in primary schools is staff confidence. Investing in staff development is therefore critical.

Primary level training opportunities at no cost are available in your school, delivered by your local school rugby manager luke.worthington@tkat.org. England Rugby also provides a no cost primary school coaching qualification, with courses regularly run in our area. Typically, these CPD sessions are one to three hours and equip staff with the skills and confidence to deliver safe, engaging sessions. Importantly, this creates long term sustainability, with rugby becoming embedded within the PE curriculum rather than dependent on external provision. For example, following a 60 minute session delivered by Luke Worthington, Front Lawn Primary Academy has established a lunchtime rugby club run by their external PE providers for Years 5 and 6.

3. Rugby values as a vehicle to enhance behaviours

For rugby to thrive, it must align with whole school priorities. The core values of rugby are summarised as TREDS (Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, Sportsmanship) and map directly onto the personal development and behaviour frameworks that schools are already striving to deliver.

By positioning rugby as a tool for character education, SLTs (senior leadership teams) can confidently support its inclusion. It becomes more than a sport; it becomes a vehicle for developing leadership, resilience, and positive behaviour across the school.

4. Collaboration with SGOs and Local Rugby Clubs

Sustainable provision is built on strong partnerships. School Games Organisers and local rugby clubs play a vital role in supporting schools with expertise, resources, and pathways.

Collaboration can unlock access to qualified coaches and delivery support, clear transition routes from school to community sport, shared facilities and joint events, and increased opportunities for pupils beyond the school environment. This joined up approach ensures continuity and strengthens the local sporting ecosystem.

Suggested Next Steps for Schools:

  • Review your current PE and sport offer to identify where rugby can complement existing provision.
  • Engage with your local SGO to explore upcoming festivals, competitions, and training opportunities.
  • Identify school staff champions who can lead rugby within schools and support their development.
  • Connect with local rugby clubs to establish partnerships and enrichment opportunities.
  • Pilot a school rugby festival trip to build initial momentum and gather pupil voice.

Rugby has the potential to make a lasting impact on pupils, not just physically but socially and emotionally. With the right structures and partnerships in place, schools across Portsmouth, Gosport and Havant can create inclusive, values driven rugby experiences that benefit every child.

 

Moving the Game Forward: Why Hampshire RFU Supports GRR2 & The RFU SGM Resolutions

Hampshire RFU would like to clearly set out its position on the upcoming Special General Meeting (SGM) and the Governance and Representation Review (GRR2), based on both our experience through the process and ongoing engagement with our clubs.

Supporting Clubs in a Challenging Landscape

Our role as a Constituent Body (CB) is to support our clubs to govern, deliver, and grow the game. Across Hampshire, over 40 clubs are currently managing significant pressures, both shared and unique, while approaching the end of a long season.

Throughout this period, our focus has been to help clubs understand GRR2 and encourage informed participation in the upcoming RFU SGM vote, ensuring their voices are heard.

Why We Opposed GRR1

Hampshire RFU opposed GRR1 not out of resistance to change, but because it did not go far enough.

Specifically, GRR1 failed to address the deeper structural issues within the governance of the game, most notably:

  • The role and effectiveness of the Community Game Board (CGB)
  • The relationship between the community game and the RFU Executive
  • Accountability and representation across the system

We believed then, and still believe, that meaningful reform must address how decisions are made and who makes them, not just the processes around them.

How GRR2 Addresses These Concerns

GRR2 represents a significant step forward and directly responds to many of the concerns raised during GRR1.

The proposed changes to the Community Game Board are a key example. The CGB will have 12 members:

  • An independent Chair drawn from the Community Game – the very best rugby can get
  • RFU Director of Rugby Development
  • At least 5 members will come from the RFU Council
  • The remainder will either come from the RFU Council or will be selected from the Community Game to specifically offer more diverse insights or different skills from Council Member

This creates a Board that is both representative and accountable to the community game.

It is worth reflecting on this: what greater level of control and accountability could clubs reasonably expect than having the vast majority of decision-makers drawn directly from the game, either Council Members or selected from within it?

The Role of Council – A Time for Evolution

We must also be honest about the current Council structure.

Hampshire RFU has been fortunate to be represented by our Council Member, Terry Burwell, for nine years, who has served the role with distinction. However, it is clear across the wider game that not all Council Members interpret or deliver their roles in the same way.

This raises a fundamental question:
How can one individual realistically represent the views of over 12,000+ players and 2,700+ volunteers across a county such as Hampshire? How can they, even in a 3 year term, effectively engage with every club, coach, volunteer and player across adult and age grade rugby?

GRR2 begins to address this through a more structured and inclusive system of:

  • Communication (sharing information clearly)
  • Engagement (actively listening)
  • Feedback (reviewing and responding to input)

This framework will operate across CBs, Council, and the RFU Executive, enabling clubs, players, coaches, and volunteers to contribute directly to shaping the game in a timely and meaningful way.

Moving from Reactive to Proactive Governance

Historically, Council has often operated in a reactive capacity, reviewing, challenging, or approving decisions that are already well underway. In many cases, this intervention comes too late to meaningfully shape outcomes.

GRR2 presents an opportunity to shift this dynamic. It enables Council Members to become more proactive, engaging earlier, influencing direction, and representing their clubs in a more impactful way.

Addressing Concerns Around Power and Influence

There has been concern expressed in some quarters about a perceived loss of power or voting influence under GRR2.

Hampshire RFU does not share this view.

The proposed changes do not remove influence, they reshape it. Council Members retain a vital role, but one that is more focused on early engagement, representation, and shaping decisions before they are finalised.

In this sense, the debate risks becoming overly focused on a single issue, rather than recognising the broader opportunity to improve how the game is governed.

A Step Forward – Built on Trust and Opportunity

As with our own governance transformation within Hampshire RFU, we recognise that change always involves an element of trust.

Are we 100% certain that, as a result of these reforms, the views and the opinions of our clubs will always be better heard and acted upon? No.

But we are confident that GRR2 creates a more progressive and more direct opportunity for this to happen.

It provides a structure where the voices of the game, clubs, players, coaches, and volunteers, can be heard more clearly and more consistently, rather than being filtered through a single representative route.

If that opportunity is embraced, by the RFU, by Council, and by CBs, then this has the potential to significantly improve how the game listens, responds, and evolves.

Hampshire RFU will be at the forefront of ensuring this happens on behalf of our clubs.

And if we achieve that, we believe this represents a genuine step forward for the game.

Call to Action

We fully respect the rights of clubs to determine their own approach to this decision but on balance Hampshire RFU supports the principles of GRR2 and the resolutions being voted on.

What is certain is whatever the views of your club and members, we would encourage you to exercise your democratic right to vote.

Club Honorary Secretaries can pre vote now or nominate Terry or Hampshire RFU as their proxy.

If you would like to discuss GRR2 and the RFU SGM further, we encourage you to speak directly with Terry Burwell or Tim Dancer, who will be happy to answer questions and hear your views.

Your voice matters, please take the time to engage and vote.

Hampshire Hosts Red Roses Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour

Hampshire RFU was proud to support the recent visit of the Community Rugby Trophy Tour – the Red Roses Rugby World Cup trophy, which visited a number of clubs and events across the county this last week.

The tour provided a special opportunity to engage players, clubs and schools, while highlighting the continued development of the women and girls’ game in Hampshire.

The trophy’s first stop was at Alton RFC, where it featured at the U11 County Festival. The event welcomed 240 girls and boys, offering young players the chance to take part in a brilliant day of rugby.

It then moved to Trojans FC, which hosted the U7, U8 and U9 County Festival, which saw more than 700 children taking part. The visit also coincided with the final women’s fixture of the season between Trojans Women and Bath Ladies, providing a strong example of the senior women’s game in action.

At Havant RFC, the focus was on schools rugby, with over 130 girls from local primary and secondary schools participating in a T1 festival. The event reflected the increasing levels of engagement in the girls’ game at school level, supported by the work of the Schools Rugby Manager.

The tour concluded at Ellingham & Ringwood RFC, where an open girls’ session was delivered, supporting both new and existing players to play and enjoy rugby together.

Across all venues, the visit of the trophy was warmly welcomed and provided a wonderful opportunity to promote the game and recognise the progress being made locally.

Hampshire RFU has seen continued growth in participation this season, with a 3% increase in the women’s game and an 18% increase in girls’ rugby. This equates to over 200 new women and girls playing the game across the county!

The trophy tour was a fitting way to acknowledge this progress and to reinforce the county’s ongoing commitment to developing rugby at all levels across Hampshire.

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