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SENIOR RUGBY
A massive Happy New Year to all of our Rugby Round Up readers!!
A win against Ditchling finished 2025 nicely. If you didn’t read the match report, please follow this link: Match report

Now all attention turns to 2026 and our first games. Our 1XV welcome Jersey Royals on Saturday while our 2’s are also hosts, in a rare home double header, to Uckfield. The Jersey game will kick off at the slightly earlier time of 1.45pm to accomodate the Channel Islanders flight home, while the 2’s kick off at 2pm. There is just time for you to book your last minute place at our pre-match lunch - See the article below.

Our Women have another week to wait before kicking off their new year, which is away at Seaford on the 18th.

AGE GROUP RUGBY
U11s Take on Twickenham – One Last Hurrah (and a Lot of Singing)
Despite the junior section officially being wrapped up, the U11s had one more fixture left in the diary at the end of 2025… and not just any fixture. This was Quins Big Game 17, and remarkably, it marked the second big outing of the year for the squad, following their earlier appearance at Twickenham Allianz Stadium. Not bad going for an U11s in their last year as juniors.

The day kicked off bright and early with a coach trip from EGRFC to the Stoop. The squad for the day was: Ollie Hayward, Sam Walding, Theo Michael, Erikas Jonusas, Cam Bell, Harry Goldsworthy, Seb Lethbridge, Albert Turner, Mattie Evans, Bradley Harding, Jack Broughton, Ivy Tristram, Jude Pullen and Cassius Wells. The players immediately claimed the back seats of the coach in true rugby tradition, where festive singing broke out almost instantly. We’re pleased to report that all lyrics were (mostly) Christmas-appropriate

On arrival at the Stoop, it was straight into action with a minis tournament on the pitch. First up were Crowborough, in a well-matched game that ended in a draw, showcasing some excellent passing, teamwork and impressive ball retention. Next came Esher, where the G’s found another gear and came away with a well-deserved win.

Game three against Brighton saw a slight switch-off, and despite a valiant effort, we narrowly lost. However, the team bounced back brilliantly in the final match against Weybridge, rediscovering their form and finishing the tournament with another strong win. A great set of performances and plenty to be proud of.

With the rugby done, the team followed in the footsteps of the Quins players on the short walk over the A316 to the 'Big Stoop'. After refuelling with food and enjoying the fun and games in the West Village, it was time to take our seats for the women’s match. Quins put on a fantastic display, capped off by some Ellie Kildunne magic as she was named Player of the Match.

Before the main event against a strong Bristol Bears side, we were treated to a live set from the legendary Groove Armada, complete with an impressive light and fireworks show. Sadly, Quins couldn’t quite match Bristol on the day, who ran out deserved winners. That said, it did nothing to dampen the spirits of the G’s, who were loudly supporting Quins throughout.

Although, it’s worth noting that loyalties were somewhat divided in the Walding household – with Dad, Guy, cheering on the Bears, while son Sam remained firmly in the Quins camp. One might have even clocked a sly 'L' gesture from father to son!

The day finished as it began: back on the coach, heading home, accompanied by yet more enthusiastic singing from the players. A brilliant day out, a fantastic experience for the team, and a perfect way to round off the year for the U11s.

FAMILY LUNCH
As mentioned above, this Saturday is one of the rare occasions that both our 1st and 2XV are playing at home at the same time. So why not enjoy the day and book you and your family in to our special Family Lunch, with menu to suit all ages and tastes!! For all details, please click here: Family lunch

NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP TICKETS
If you are a member of our club, you have the right to apply for discounted international rugby tickets. The new Nations Championship looks awesome, so what better time to apply? The Nations Championship will take place every two years, outside of Rugby World Cup and British & Irish Lions Tour years. The tournament will see twelve of the strongest international rugby nations in the world form two groups of six teams. You have the opportunity to apply for tickets for England’s three home (Allianz Stadium) pool games in November against New Zealand, Australia and Japan.

Interested? An email went to all known emails on our members database yesterday (6th). If you missed it, or need more information, please check your junk folder or contact: williamjblackledge@btinternet.com

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!

December 2025 Draw Results
1st Prize, Ticket No. 30 - Peter Grisman - £125
2nd Prize, Ticket No. 47 - Rita Russell - £50
3rd Prize, Ticket No 26 - Jack Roberts - £25

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.

For details in joining the “200 Club” visit: 200 Club or contact: colin.byron.uk@gmail.com

WESTERN NIGHT
Are you cowboy or girl at heart? Then Saturday the 24th is for you!!
Grab your tickets here: Western 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!!