Hampshire RFU joins a new and innovative 18-month pilot project aimed at helping grassroots rugby clubs become more financially resilient and sustainable.

Supported by the RFU, the pilot will see the appointment of a specialist contractor working on behalf of Hampshire RFU to support a cluster of community clubs from across the county. By bringing clubs together to share services, as well as ideas and good practice of successful activities, the initiative will focus on unlocking new revenue opportunities from existing club facilities, such as bars, function rooms, car parks, and pitches – while also identifying cost savings across key operational areas.

Working closely with each participating club, the appointed contractor will provide tailored, hands-on support to explore commercial opportunities and improve operational efficiency.

Steve Grainger, Executive Director of Rugby Development of RFU said:

“Community clubs are the heartbeat of rugby union, and we understand the financial challenges many of them face. This pilot project reflects our commitment to supporting clubs beyond the game itself – helping them become more sustainable, more resilient, and more able to thrive in the years ahead.”

Neil McRoberts, Chair of Hampshire RFU, added:

“This is an exciting moment for Hampshire rugby. Being chosen to join this pilot can be attributed to the hard work we’ve put in over the past year to reposition and restructure our Constituent Body. It’s also proof of our commitment to bringing new ideas and fresh investment into our clubs. We’re proud to be involved and see huge potential for this project to help build stronger, more financially sustainable rugby communities across the county.”

The role of the specialist contractor is currently open for applications. To find out more about the role, view the full scope of work and apply, visit the Hampshire RFU Vacancies Page.

The intended outcome for this role will be to prove its financial worth, with all the learnings used to inform future support models across the rugby landscape.

Hampshire RFU welcomed representatives from 25 of its 34 clubs to a successful Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday, marking a pivotal moment for rugby governance in the county. The evening, hosted at Trojans FC, was a celebration of both the business of rugby and the people who make it thrive.

New Board Appointed to Lead Hampshire Rugby

At the heart of the AGM was the appointment of a new Hampshire RFU Board, tasked with steering the county into the future. The new board reflects a blend of continuity and fresh leadership, aiming to develop a vibrant, safe, and inclusive rugby environment across Hampshire. This was just one part of a fantastic season, more details of which can be found in the 2024 Annual Report here.

New President, Gary Self, formally took over from outgoing President Ed Neville, paying tribute to his dedication. A special mention was also given to Richard Showan, a stalwart of Hampshire RFU and Hampshire Referees.

The restructured board brings together a team with a broad range of skills, all committed to growing the game at every level, from grassroots to representative rugby.
(For full details of the new board appointment, visit: Hampshire RFU appoints new board)

Celebrating Rugby’s Unsung Heroes at the Hampshire RFU Awards

Following the AGM, the evening transitioned into the Hampshire RFU Awards 2025, recognising the players, volunteers, clubs, and officials who embody the spirit of rugby in Hampshire.

Representative Rugby Awards

• Senior Men’s Player of the Year (FMT Bunney Trophy)
  Winner: Fraser Bruce (Worthing RFC / Club Hampshire 1XV)
  Recognised for his leadership and commitment in the Bill Beaumont County Championship.
• Senior Women’s Player of the Year (Gill Burns Trophy)
  Winner: Natasha Bullock
  Celebrated for her outstanding performances and leadership during this year’s campaign.
• Brian Short Memorial Trophy
  Winner: Chase Thomas (Hampshire U17s)
  Awarded to a young player who epitomises team spirit and selfless effort.
• Robbie Keast U16 Award
  Winner: Beattie Markby Brans (Ellingham & Ringwood RFC / Hampshire Girls U16 PDG)
• Robbie Keast U18 Award
  Winner: Rosie Wragg (Trojans FC / Hampshire U18 Girls)
• John Sneezum U20 Captains Tankard
  Winner: Luigi Forconi (Winchester RFC)

Club League Champions 2024-2025

• Counties 1 Hampshire – Havant II (22 wins from 22) – NEWS Challenge Trophy
• Counties 2 Hampshire – Millbrook RFC (16 wins from 16) – ECHO Cup
• Counties 3 Hampshire – Andover II (16 wins from 16) – PINNOCK Cup
• Counties 4 Hampshire – Alton RFC
• Hampshire Premiership South – Millbrook II
• Hampshire Premiership North – Basingstoke II

County Badges for Outstanding Service

• Sandra Coffin – For contributions to girls’ rugby and safeguarding.
• Amie Boyes – For long-term commitment to U16 Girls DPP rugby.
• Adam Leal – For services to Hampshire Referees and international officiating.
• Matt Davis – For dedication to the County Women’s team.

Special Volunteer Awards

• Administrator of the Year – Mel Chiwera (Aldershot & Fleet RFC)
  For exceptional leadership in rebuilding the club’s mini and junior section.
• Fundraisers of the Year – Tristan Pattison & Nick Smith (Romsey RFC)
  For the inspirational Rugby4MND campaign, raising nearly £7,000 for Motor Neurone Disease research.
• Unsung Hero – Alison Edmonston (Trojans FC)
  For tireless work in girls’ rugby and safeguarding initiatives.
• Young Volunteer of the Year – Alfie James (Hampshire Rugby Referees)
  Recognised for his commitment to officiating and developing as a Young Match Official.

Club of the Year

This year’s Club of the Year Award was jointly awarded to Havant RFC and Trojans FC, in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the rugby community. Both clubs have hosted numerous county events, festivals, and training opportunities, going above and beyond to support rugby at all levels.

As the baton passes to a new leadership team, Hampshire RFU looks forward to a season of growth, collaboration, and innovation to support the game across the county.