Stocksbridge Rugby continue recruitment drive

STOCKSBRIDGE Rugby club continue to train, under the strict RFU return to training protocols, and continue to add to their playing roster with speedy centre or winger Dan Burt (pictured) the latest high profile recruit to join the club.

The 23-year-old Sheffield born utility back is a recent Rugby League convert, having previously played for Dearne Valley Bulldogs, Sheffield Hawks and a brief spell with professional outfit Keighley Cougars.

He was persuaded to give the Union variety of the game a go by his work colleagues, some of whom also play for Stocksbridge.

“As ever, joining a new club environment was a bit daunting at first,” said Burt. “However, everyone was welcoming and helped me understand the new calls for the Union game.”

Burt is comfortable with the Stocksbridge set up. He said: “The coaches are experienced, take the time to explain what is required and help with any difficulties. There is a clear pathway to the first XV for the younger players too, it is a well run club.”

During the enforced break from fixtures, Burt has used the training time to get acclimatised to the differences between the two codes of Rugby.

“The biggest single difference is not having to retreat 10 metres at every tackle, but I’ve got plenty more to learn,” he said.

Director of Rugby Andy Tyers is pleased to have Burt on board. Tyers said: “We’ve had him on our radar for some time now and he’s recently settled into the area with his family and he’s keen and enthusiastic to improve. He’ll certainly be adding some pace and genuine options to our back line, I just wish it could be some time soon!”

The Club are keeping the squad together with a series of Saturday get-togethers, again within the rules, to maintain the steady progress since their return to training during the summer.

Meanwhile, the RFU Council has taken the decision to cancel all the adult competitive leagues in level three and below for the whole of the 2020/2021 season. This is on the basis that a meaningful, competitive and full contact season is no longer feasible. Clearly this is related to the continuing pandemic and is not totally unexpected.

Stocksbridge Rugby chairman, Andy Bell, said: “Subject to the Government and the RFU protocols, we are trying to work towards a state where some competitive rugby can be played.

“Hhowever, we need to be realistic about the prevalence of covid-19 cases in society and the introduction of further restrictions’ he added. This will affect the Yorkshire League system where Stocksbridge Rugby were hoping for a promotion push this term.”