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.

WOMENS RUGBY
East Grinstead Ladies Rugby End of Season Review 2024/25

As the final whistle blows on another unforgettable season, we take a moment to reflect on the grit, growth, and glory of the East Grinstead Ladies Rugby Team. This season has been a testament to what hard work, heart, and team spirit can achieve. From the very first kick-off in September against Seaford to the last bruising encounter against Guernsey in April, our squad has shown what it means to wear the East Grinstead jersey with pride.

On the Pitch the ladies delivered a season full of tenacity and flair, building momentum week by week. With strong wins against Crawley, Uckfield and Worthing. There were also some narrow battles, and some fierce match-ups against tough opposition from the likes of Seaford, Guernsey and Dorking. Whether it was crunching tackles, dazzling runs, or game-saving turnovers, every player had a hand in shaping the season. From seasoned veterans such as Leah Sullivan and Bronwyn O’Donoghue to the fresh young faces of Jorja Shelford and Millie Wilson stepping up for their debuts, the squad grew stronger together. Our team spirit was matched only by our determination to improve every week.

Off the Pitch, training nights were filled with sweat, tears and laughter, team socials forged deeper bonds, and the support from coaches, medical staff, and our loyal ‘G’ fans never wavered. The rugby family around East Grinstead continues to thrive because of the dedication of everyone involved, from volunteers to sponsors.

Looking ahead as we head into the off-season, one thing is clear – this team is just getting started. With development continuing, new players like Sophie Hendren and Izzie Elwood joining, the 2025/26 season is shaping up to be even bigger. Recruitment is ongoing, and our doors remain open for anyone ready to pick up a ball and be part of something special.

To the team, thank you – for every tackle, every sprint, every late night and early morning. You’ve represented East Grinstead with passion and pride. Rest, recover, and be proud of what you’ve achieved. We’ll be back, stronger than ever. COYGs!

Huge thanks also to Clayton who has done a brilliant job in his first season as Women’s head coach. Having finished fourth in the league after a promotion is an excellent achievement!

TOUCH RUGBY
Touch rugby is going from strength to strength, and now that the sun’s out, it’s busier than ever!

Monday nights have become the place to be. As the season wound down, we were thrilled to welcome players from every corner of the club. It’s brought a brilliant energy to the group and lifted both the social vibe and playing standard. This summer, the touch squad will once again be competing and proudly representing East Grinstead RFC.

But touch rugby is about more than just competition…
Gareth says -
“I was invited to try touch rugby by one of my mates when I first moved to the area. I hadn’t played rugby in years, and naturally, I was a bit apprehensive. But I quickly met a great group of people and was welcomed with open arms. I was hooked! There’s something special about it. Yes, it’s great for fitness and sharpening your rugby skills, but the social side is a huge part of it. I’ve made some amazing mates. People I’ve gone on to coach with and play alongside, whether in touch teams, the 2nd XV, or the Vets. It means a lot.

Touch rugby is also fantastic for developing skills, especially for our younger club members. So, with the support of the touch squad, we created Fun Rugby. Seeing the impact it’s had on young lives has been incredibly rewarding too.”

So, come along and give it a go!

Competitive Touch - Monday 7.30pm
Fun Rugby for families - Friday 6pm

Instagram - egrfc_touch

SUSSEX RUGBY
A fantastic result for Josh Brimecombe and Sussex as they overcame Surrey 35 - 31 in a nailbiter at Crowborough last Saturday. Well played Brimo!

Also massive congratulations to two of our Colts, Freddie Mitchell and Teddy O’Shea as they helped Sussex U17’s to a 44 - 35 win over Eastern Counties on Sunday at Horsham.

SUSSEX 7’s SERIES
G’s were well represented in the Sussex 7’s series at Uckfield. You will recognise many faces from both ‘Burgers’ and tournament winners, the Ratana Rugby Foundation team, ‘Ratana Toa 7's’. Well done all!

200 CLUB
Our 200 Club provides a vital part of raising funds for playing equipment for the club, with the added bonus of giving our members the chance to win cash prizes each month!!

MAY 2025 Draw Results
1st Prize, Ticket No.70 - Simon Davenport - £125
2nd Prize, Ticket No.50 - Simon Marshall - £50
3rd Prize, Ticket No.51 - Malcolm Higginson - £25

Well done to all our winners!

Could all winners please send their banking details, if not previously sent, to Stephanie.irwin@egrfc.com for payment directly into their bank account.

Reminder that should 3 months elapse from draw date and details for payment have not been forwarded to the club, then the winning sum will revert to the club account.

It’s still possible to join the 200 Club during the “Closed Season”, just click here: 200 Club or email Colin Byron for details at: colin.byron.uk@gmail.com

AGM
Make sure the 11th July is in the diary!!

WRWC
100 DAYS UNTIL THE WOMEN'S RUGBY WORLD CUP 2025
This is your chance to secure your seat and be part of the action as the world's best go head-to-head.

The Red Roses kick the tournament off at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light on Friday 22 August, and there are even more matches that are likely to grab the spotlight later this year.

Tickets for select matches are running out fast - secure your spot to witness the team in action and discover our Finals hospitality packages. Click here for more info: WRWC 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!!