Welcome to East Grinstead Rugby Round Up. If you are reading this on the website, or via Facebook, please sign up to receive this Newsletter via email, which contains loads of pictures and other content, please email m.marriott@btconnect.com and we will add you to the list.

SENIOR MEN REVIEW
DOR, Ryan Morlen writes:
As seasons go, this was one where we learnt a lot about ourselves and most importantly how to play rugby at a higher level, adapting quicker would have resulted in some of our close losses converting into wins.

An incredible season for our 2nd XV, topping their league and coming out on top in the Sussex cup also, an unbeaten season where we were able to play a number of colts with some experienced heads slotting in around the youth. The rugby that was played in the second half of the season showed the ambition and how hungry we have been as a club to play at a higher level.

Our 1st XV finished a respectable 8th in a strong league, the highest level a number of players have ever played, changing our style and staying in the fight for 80 minute was our biggest task, come the last game we showed just how much as a club we’ve grown over the last few seasons, I am incredibly proud of every single person who put on an EG jersey and cannot wait for the task ahead next season.

A special thank you goes out to the following key links at the club when it comes to looking after the lads:

Luke - the 1st XV manager, he’s been around some time now and gives his wisdom on selection week in, week out, a neutral when it comes to discussions both on and off the pitch, but an absolute gem of a bloke, couldn’t function without him within his role!!

Morgan - managing the 2nd XV this season I know has been a joy for you, but again, you put in endless amount of your time to get the squad out week in week out, along with ensuring everything’s prepared in advance for match days.

Matt - from an S&C perspective and a top bloke you’ve been all season long, being there come rain or sunshine, this reflects hugely on the field.

Our captains, you’ve been class on and off the field, again, without you the squads do not function.

And of course everyone from our groundsmen, to bar staff and to everyone who has had any involvement with the senior sides.

Next season will be the best we’ve had for many years at EG, it’s just the start of our growth and development at this level.

1st XV
League position 8th; Wins - 11; Losses - 15 (Inc cup run)
Top try scorer - Jake Radcliffe with 13 trys

2nd XV
League position 1st; Wins - 16; Losses - 0 (Inc cup run)
Top try scorer - Will Rob with 15 trys

AWARDS NIGHT:
Coaches player:
1st XV - Dan B
2nd XV - Rhys

Players player:
1st XV - Oli B
2nd XV - Harrison Berry

Most Improved:
1st XV - Guy
2nd XV - Will Roberts

Young player:
Ted Hardisty

Exceptional Contribution Award
Rex - without you we’d be very much lost, your hard work and preparation never goes unnoticed, the club are so lucky to have you and for that we’re all very grateful. You’ve given years of your time, making many refs, players and visitors welcome, thinking only of others always before yourself.

Speaking on behalf of the whole of East Grinstead RFC, I want to thank all our senior coaches and staff, especially Ryan who is a legend and has led the ship beautifully. We can’t wait for next season!!!!

SENIOR WOMEN AWARDS
Here are our award winners for the 2023/24 Season!
Massive congratulations to Naomi who was our player of the season. Across the board she has been simply outstanding and if memory serves correctly she has played all 80 minutes of every game!

Next up, our most improved player of the season award goes to Bronwyn who has come on so much this year since coming back from Uni!

Nominated by the players, Issy was voted as our players player of the season which was incredibly well deserved. She truly has been a force to be reckoned with all year and we are going to miss her massively as she heads off to uni next season!

Lastly Vicky was very deserving of our team ethos award. She got hit with multiple injuries throughout the season but through it all she was at every session and every game, displaying unwavering commitment to the team and keeping our ducks in order.

Massive well-done to everyone and to the whole squad on another stunning season finishing 3rd in our first year in NC2!

If you want to get involved, summer fitness has started. Get to the club at 7.30 Thursday evening!!

SENIOR SUSSEX TEAM
Huge congratulation to Aaron Boczek, who joined Connor Legatt and Chris May-Miller in the winning squad for Sussex against Essex. A win against Buckinghamshire concluded the county season.

DEAN RICHARDS
Friday the 7th June, sees Lions and England Legend Dean Richards, popping in for a beer and BBQ at EGRFC as we host him and over thirty of his friends.

Dean has been a fantastic supporter for the Ratana Marauders, being Head coach for the four fundraising games we have had so far.
We look forward to seeing a good crowd at the the club - with Family Touch from 7pm - Full BBQ available (Burger / Chicken / Jumbo sausage / potato salad and coleslaw £15) or burgers available. To book your place, please email: events@egrfc.com

Some more detail ….
On 6th June, GravityFundraisers, led by Dean Richards and MikeTeague (former England Rugby & Lions Rugby Company professional rugby players), and Fereti Tuilagi (former Samoa and Leicester Tigers legend) set to out on yet another cycling adventure, this time embarking on a route from Paris to Twickenham Stadium, aiming to arrive at HQ just in time for the Premiership Cup final on June 8th. Their objective: to gather over £50,000 in support of two meaningful causes deeply cherished by all involved.

The Matt Hampson OBE Foundation stands as a beacon for individuals facing catastrophic sporting injuries. Inspired by Matt's own journey, which began after he suffered a life-altering injury rendering him paralysed from the neck down, the foundation strives to provide top-notch facilities and support. Matt’s resilience and determination to embrace life to the fullest serve as a guiding light for others in similar situations. Our mission is to contribute to the foundation's daily operations and ensure its ongoing support for those in need.

Ed Slater's battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association spurred the creation of the charity 4Ed, rallying friends and colleagues in a relentless fight against the cruelty of MND. From offering vital support to affected families to raising awareness about MND's impact, the charity's efforts bring about profound changes in the lives of those grappling with the physical, mental, and social repercussions of this devastating illness.

Inspired by the indomitable spirit of Matt and Ed, as well as their shared experiences Leicester Tigers and within the rugby community, the team of cyclists and support crew is determined to conquer the arduous journey in just over two days. Notably, the majority of riders are over 60,adding to the feat's remarkable nature as they don their lycra, oil their chains, and pump up their tyres once again!!!

To learn more, please follow these links:
https://gravityfundraisers.co.uk
https://matthampsonfoundation.org
https://www.4-ed.co.uk

So book your place now by emailing: events@egrfc.com

GIRLS RUGBY
Girls between 5 & 16, we need you! Come to the club on Wednesday evenings for an hour at 6.30pm. These sessions are ideal for all age an experience. A brilliant time to start your rugby journey in time for the new season.

WIN PREMIERSHIP FINAL TICKETS
PLAY-OFF TEAMS ARE NOW CONFIRMED

Exciting news for rugby fans! The Gallagher Premiership Rugby play-off teams have been confirmed, and the final is on track to sell out.

In just two weeks the final teams will be confirmed with Northampton Saints taking on Saracens who will be looking to defend their title and Bath Rugby hosting last year's finalists, Sale, in the playoffs.

Tickets are selling fast, and you don't want to miss your chance to be part of this thrilling event.

Click here to secure your seats now and be there to experience the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final: Prem final tickets

OTHER NEWS
If you have any news about any aspect of our rugby family here at East Grinstead, get involved and email m.marriott@btconnect.com. See you next week!!