Touchline - Stockport Rubgy Club Magazine

THE STOCKPORT RUGBY CLUB MAGAZINE

Touch line Autumn 2017

STOCKPORT ON TOUR!

WITH THE LIONS IN NEW ZEALAND

REFEREEING THE GAME A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE

CLUB4ALL FIND OUT HOW STOCKPORT RUFC HAS A NEW STYLE

PLUS!

A LOOK BACK AT A DAY IN OUR HISTORY

Are you prepared for

the unexpected?

jbgass/lifetimeplanning

WELCOME TO TOUCHLINE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS Welcome to Touchline Magazine

4

By Clive Oldham, Ged Gurney and Neil Wakefield Rugby Club Ramble

6

By Clive Oldham

Dean Schofield and a new style at Stockport

8

8

By Dean Schofield Business & Sport Doing our bit

10

By Ray Bell Stockports’ Mini & Junior section

14

by Keith Warhurst The Man in the Middle

18

By Richard Thorogood Higher Learning with the Sale Sharks Academy

26

22

By Mark Wigglesworth The Lions Roar is now even louder

26

By Miles Rackliff Stockport Rugby Club Community facility

30

By Haidee Langtree and Ray Bell Club contacts and fixture information

Stockport All Stars

34 38

38

By Kay Weeks

Also don’t miss our player profiles of Kate Avery-Lofthouse, Daniel Robinson and Tom Curtis on pages 5, 15 and 46

All SRUFC Senior team photography by Jackson Davies of JD Photography

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

Welcome to To ‘ WELCOME TO STOCKPORT RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL

Stockport Rugby Club – One club for all

Recent years have seen Stockport Rugby Club develop its facilities to truly include all members of the community. This has been done quietly and without a great deal of local advertisement.

I would like to take this opportunity to tell you about the great things that go on at the club and how we continue to develop the club’s facilities to accommodate them.

Did you know Stockport Rugby Club now includes: president's view

Stockport RUFC is a great club with many stories to tell, not all of them can be captured in this first edition of our magazine.

However, I hope that you will get a sense of what the club is about and how, with your help, we can provide a facility to our community and a stronger future in Union.

I have provided my own story of Stockport RUFC a little later in the magazine; but first I have invited the Chairmen of the Senior club and the Mini and Junior section to tell you a little about the club and what we offer today.

Clive Oldham Clive Oldham President, Stockport Rugby Union Football Club

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www.stockportrugby.co.uk

• • • • • •

3 Senior men’s teams Stockport Scarlets, our ladies and girl’s rugby team Stockport Stormers, our Vets & Occasional players team that play on Friday nights under floodlights Mini & Junior teams from Under 6’s to Under 18’s, which has over 330 girls and boys playing on Sunday O2 Touch Rugby on Monday & Wednesday nights Stockport All Stars, our tag rugby team for those with a mental or physical disability

To stage this, we now have four full sized rugby pitches, having in recent years secured funding to buy land for an additional pitch. Two of our pitches have had new floodlights installed, to a standard good enough for night rugby games. We have also renovated our clubhouse and added additional changing rooms. To maximise benefit, members of the club work with local schools to provide free coaching and the use of our facilities. All of this is based on a huge amount of volunteer support; we have over 75 volunteer coaches and officers regularly giving up their time. A huge big thankyou to you all.

We are a Rugby Club that wants to play an active role in the local community, this was demonstrated by our hosting of the first ever Bramhall Firework Festival last year, an event we are to host again this year. I hope it will be as well supported as it was last year.

I am proud to be the Chairman of a Rugby Club that truly is one club for all.

Ged Gurney

Ged Gurney Chairman, Stockport Rugby Union Football Club

WELCOME TO TOUCHLINE MAGAZINE

ouchline CLUB’S NEW MAGAZINE

Stockport Rugby Club – Mini and Junior Section

The Minis and Juniors section of Stockport RUFC are successful and thriving with strong membership and well supported teams. We are a strong club achieving lots of success on the pitch too. In the 2016-7 season, 3 of our junior teams won Cheshire competitions and the other 2 teams were semifinalists. We have committed, enthusiastic and supportive parents many of whom volunteer to coach or to help in running the section and in organising and running events at the club, such as our annual minis rugby festival. In the past 3 years, we have raised £60k towards projects to improve the facilities at the club. Most recently enabling the clubhouse to be re-wired this summer, ensuring the longevity of our facility at Headland Road.

“IT IS A PASSION OF OURS TO OFFER RUGBY TO AS MANY YOUNG PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE WORKING WITH OTHERS TO ACHIEVE THIS.” It is a passion of ours to offer rugby to as many young people as possible working with others to achieve this. For example; to continue to offer rugby to boys in the U17s and U18s we have agreed to form a joint Colts squad with Manchester RUFC for the 2017-8 season. This keeps those boys in the game and should allow both clubs to reform a Colts team for the 2018-9 season.

Our volunteers, together with Rugby’s values of Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship are what makes the game special for those who enjoy the environment and culture they create.

Neil Wakefield

Neil Wakefield Chairman of the Mini and Junior Section, Stockport Rugby Union Football Club

Player Profile: Kate Avery-Lofthouse Position (in the team): Second Row Favourite Singer: Pink Favourite Food: Pretty much anything Italian - especially seafood linguine.

Why did you decide to play rugby?

I’d been playing football and hockey for years and wanted to try something a bit different.

What are you looking forward to this season? Being able to play as a whole team and not having to rely on favours from friends to make the numbers up.

What do you enjoy most about playing for Stockport Scarlets? The social atmosphere! Every one of the ladies on the team (and our coaches, Matt and Ray) are lovely and a little bit crazy, and it makes training such a fun place to be! You can get to the end of a fitness session and not even realise how hard you’ve worked because you’ve spent the whole time getting muddy with friends.

Would you recommend other ladies/ girls to take part? Absolutely! We have a huge age range of players; some who’ve played for years, and some who had never picked up a ball until a couple of months ago. We have social members (who prop the bar up nicely...), those who just want to play touch rugby; and those who play full contact. It’s a fun, different way to get fit and meet new people - yes, the first contact session is scary, but you realise very quickly that actually getting muddy is the most fun you will have all week!

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

Rugby Club

Ramble

By Clive Oldham President, Stockport Rugby Union Football Club

ONCE UPON A TIME WE WERE CALLED DAVENPORT RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB. WE PLAYED DOWN AT THE END OF HANDLEY ROAD, BRAMHALL. I used to go down on a Saturday afternoon, with my Dad and Cec Capper, to watch my elder brothers play. However, I was more interested in the little pond between the pitches, and the big net they used to retrieve the ball or the old coal fired boiler, which was both smelly and noisy.

“IN THE DAYS BEFORE LEAGUE RUGBY, EVERY GAME WAS FRIENDLY?!”

6

obtained our revenge in the return fixture when the ground was claggy!

The Cheshire Cup (and all County Cups) used to be important to the Senior Clubs. If you won it you were automatically in the John Player Cup – the National competition – you might even get on the telly! I remember two Cheshire Cup semis against Sale.

Two fab days, one with Headlands Rd throbbing and the second at Heywood Rd when Sale flew Steve Smith back from Dublin, having played against Ireland in the Five Nations the day before. They were worried – we had a tremendous team at the time – unfortunately we came second, but only just.

In the blink of an eye (or so it seemed), I was up at a new venue. Three huge pitches, a modern clubhouse on two levels – stairs! And I was allowed upstairs into what seemed a vast area. A one-armed bandit fascinated me, but it needed silver sixpences. I discovered mithering the players was a good tactic to acquire one of these valuable coins; they didn’t want their dirty beer drinking interrupted! And with this we were at Headlands Road.

We were one of the first Clubs in the area to start Sunday morning training for the younger element.

John Belsten, Dave Pearson and George Wilcox were the main instigators. It soon grew to fixtures with like-minded Clubs. Now come down on a Sunday morning and see how it has blossomed!

What a marvellous game we have for young people to play.

Although I hadn’t realised it, a proportion of my future social life was being sorted. Playing for the Felons when I was 17 on a Saturday afternoon invariably straight after playing for the School.

Then on to senior rugby. In the days before League rugby, every game was friendly?! The first match of the season was always against Wigan. On most occasions, the ground was hard, the weather was hot, and they were fitter than us. Their Rugby League style made things difficult, but we often

These ramblings could go on, but I think this snippet is enough. I haven’t mentioned the Tours (both with Senior and Mini/Juniors), the Club’s development and expansion, all the great characters past and present, and many other elements. But, being a member of a Rugby Club, and in particular this one, will bring many memorable moments (on and off the pitch) along with forging lifelong friendships. The Club is a fabulous community resource, long may it continue and I’ll drink to that!

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

Dean Schofield and a new style at Stockport YORKSHIRE CARNEGIE SECOND-ROW DEAN SCHOFIELD, INSISTS IT WAS THE RIGHT TIME TO RETIRE FROM PLAYING PROFESSIONAL RUGBY THIS JULY, AFTER THE EX-ENGLAND LOCK REVEALED HE WOULD QUIT FOLLOWING THE CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY-OFFS..

Schofield, 38, has spent the last two seasons at Headingley lending valuable experience to Bryan Redpath’s squad. A Premiership winner with Sale Sharks in 2005-06, where Dean also lifted the European Challenge Cup, the forward represented England twice against South Africa in 2007. Originally starting his career at Wakefield, Schofield also featured with French side Toulon, Worcester Warriors and London Welsh. “It wasn’t a tough decision to finally decide to retire,” said Schofield, who had played 15 times last season to help Carnegie finish second, including their most recent win over Ealing in the club’s final regular Championship fixture. “I have enjoyed a fantastic career but at 38 I am ready to hang up my boots. I have been going for 17 years and it is time to move on to the next stage. The two years at Yorkshire Carnegie have been brilliant. Being in a winning environment and becoming friends with some great lads has been brilliant.” Bryan Redpath, a former team-mate at Sharks, added “I have known Dean since his early days at Sale. He is a great guy who is an example to any player about how you can seize the opportunities that rugby gives you. What he has given the lads at Yorkshire Carnegie in the last two years was second to none. His knowledge, energy and the simplicity with which he sees the

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www.stockportrugby.co.uk

DEAN SCHOFIELD AND A NEW STYLE AT STOCKPORT

over during the summer. It was very pleasing to see that style of rugby being played well and leading to a win, something the club has lacked at senior level.”

And Dean has big plans to build on this great start: “I really want positivity to get back into this club, success brings that, we have an incredibly strong M&J section and it’s important the kids have a first team to be proud of and want to play for in future years.”

game has been fantastic. He is a big man, who did his job well and it was nice to send him off in the right manner this season.”

Dean said, “I knew I was ready to retire from professional rugby, my rugby mind was still fast but my legs not quite so. I am fortunate that I step down fit and healthy and I am in a position where I still have a passion for the game and want to still be involved with it.”

When asked about his next chapter, Dean was very enthusiastic about his new player coach role at Stockport. “My children all play in the Mini & Junior section (M&J) at Stockport, my wife grew up at the club, my father-in-law played at the club for years and is still involved as chief executive now, my brother-in-law came right through the M&J to the end of colts here, it’s in my family. I wanted to help the club get on stable ground and improve the quality of rugby throughout the club, something they have struggled with in recent years.”

“I have done 12 weeks here in pre-season and in our last pre-season game against Crewe & Nantwich the hard work finally started to pay off, the style of play I am implementing is very different to previous seasons. However, the game opened up for the lads just by them doing what we have practised over and

“I plan to help the club off the field too, when I can, with events and the general day to day running of it. I believe things could be improved and stream lined all round which would help on the field too.”

Good results and exciting rugby should start making Saturday afternoons at Headland Road a spectacle well worth coming to see and if that’s not enough, come on the right day and you may just catch a little bit of magic too….

“I am hoping to get a few guest appearances on the pitch for Stockport this season to pull the punters in. My good pals Mark Cueto and Kevin Sinfield have promised me a Stockport debut so watch this space!!”

“I am thoroughly enjoying rugby here at Stockport and I hope everyone will get behind me and the club and come down and support us for the fixtures this season.”

“I AM FORTUNATE THAT I STEP DOWN FIT AND HEALTHY AND I AM IN A POSITION WHERE I STILL HAVE A PASSION FOR THE GAME AND WANT TO STILL BE INVOLVED WITH IT.”

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

Business & Sport

Doing our bit

WHEN LOOKING AT THE TRANSFER FEES BEING SPENT BY FOOTBALL CLUBS AND THE SALARIES PAID TO THE WORLD’S TOP SPORTING STARS, IT IS CLEAR THAT SPORT, AT THE TOP LEVEL AT LEAST, IS BIG BUSINESS.

By Ray Bell

Left: Neymar agreed a five-year deal with Paris SaintGermain this summer for a fee of £198 million

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

BUSINESS & SPORT - DOING OUR BIT

“FOR MOST OF US, IT’S ACTIONS RATHER THAN WORDS THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE AT GRASSROOTS SPORT TO THOSE CHILDREN STARTING OUT TODAY.” Sponsorship, merchandising and broadcasting revenues are growing all the time, but is grassroots sport benefiting in proportion?

To put it into perspective, the fee paid recently by PSG to Barcelona to acquire Brazilian footballer Neymar is the equivalent to building around 400 artificial grass pitches, with his reported salary paying for another 80 pitches per year.

As staggering as those numbers are, investment in grassroots sports is generally on the up and the facilities, coaching resources and support available to the majority of sports are better than ever before. At the end of the day, those debates around funding and investment will continue and not many of us are in a position to directly influence change. For most of us, it’s actions rather than words that makes the difference at grassroots sport to those children starting out today. And we can all do our bit.

Not only are coaches passing on their valuable knowledge, but they are also in a position of responsibility as a role model. Rugby’s core values of sportmanship, teamwork, enjoyment, respect and discipline are great examples of where the association with a sport can help develop skills far beyond what you do on the field.

Helping on the field need not be daunting.

The support framework available to coaches in most sports is better than ever. Whether an occasional helper, a lead coach or a team manager, there is a role for anyone who wants to get involved. It isn’t about being a technical expert in the sport in question – all that’s required are the skills of good communication, enjoyment, leadership and man management.

As a coach or parent helper, the measure of success isn’t how many international superstars are produced by your coaching but how many children come back the next week because they are enjoying it.

Volunteering

The first way that anyone can help is through volunteering whether that be on the field, off the field or both. On the field, the experience of coaching is extremely rewarding.

If you prefer to show your support off the field, each club or team also have a number of roles that range from admin support, treasurer, social secretary or player recruitment, to name a few. 

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

kit, advertising boards, clubhouse, programmes and festivals.

If sponsorship isn’t a viable option, there are many other ways to consider supporting a local club, including:

Business Support

The second way to get involved is through your business. Whether you own your business or not, there are many ways to get involved.

Sponsorship is an obvious starting point but it doesn’t have to be a donation without return.

Done well, sponsorship can provide real business benefits. For example, most clubs will have an online presence and database which can provide some direct local marketing contacts. There are also branding opportunities on match kits, training

•

Events - most clubs have outdoor and indoor space with facilities that can be hired. Not only will this cost less than a traditional events venue but you are directly supporting grassroots sport.

•

Volunteer time - as part of an existing Corporate Social Responsibility or a new initiative, most clubs will welcome assistance when upgrading, painting and tidying facilities.

•

Mentoring - offer work experience, apprenticeships or job search assistance to junior club members as they prepare to enter the work place.

Whichever path is chosen, there will also be many indirect benefits from being associated to a local sports club such as finding future employees, networking with other business people and the positive PR associated with promoting the relationship within and outside your organisation.

Whatever the motivation, objectives or business case, a good partnership with grassroots sport can be a hugely positive step for your business to take.

Why get involved? My personal perspective As a parent of three children who all play several sports, a volunteer coach of several teams and a member of the local business community, I have long been a supporter of grassroots sports. I am often asked why I spend so much time on these commitments and there are generally two reasons: Firstly, from a personal perspective, I believe strongly in giving something back to a sport which I have enjoyed so much and I see the positive personal development my children are experiencing from being involved in a team and a club.

Secondly, from a business perspective, I have seen first-hand the networking opportunities created

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www.stockportrugby.co.uk

through having grassroots sport in common and the positivity associated with any business that supports their local clubs.

My advice to anyone who wants to get involved through volunteering or through their business is simply to go for it. Start by reaching out to your local sports club and just ask them what you can do to help.

Ray Bell Stockport Rugby Club (U10s, Womens XV, Touch Rugby) Stockport Georgians Cricket Club (U11s Boys, U13s Girls, Ladies XI)

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

Stockports’ Mini & Junior section

have reason to

celebrate

success!

Above: The 2016/17 U12s celebrating their second triumph at Twickenham

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Finishing the 2016/17 season by completing the unofficial ‘double-double’ of retaining the Cheshire Cup and Land Rover Cup for the 2nd consecutive season, they have established a reputation as one of the most successful sides in the country.

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

ALTHOUGH STOCKPORT ARE A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH ACROSS ALL OF THE MINI & JUNIOR TEAMS THE STOCKPORT U13’S HAVE MORE REASONS TO CELEBRATE THAN MOST.

By Keith Warhurst (Parent and Coach)

This group of players have been together since the age of 5 and continue to impress year on year with their determination, commitment and desire to learn and improve whilst also representing the great name of Stockport Rugby Club. By the age of 12 these boys have been

STOCKPORTS’ MINI & JUNIOR SECTION

Player Profile: Daniel Robinson

on tour to Oswestry, York (twice), Lichfield and Bath as well as 2 trips to Twickenham, 2 preseason tours to Ireland and this season will see them embark on a 5-day tour to Lisbon in Portugal. In doing so they have already formed bonds on and off the pitch that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Above: Stockport M & J’s doing there bit for Manchester at Twickenham.

Squad numbers have always been high which has seen the age group regularly put out more than one team per week where they have travelled to Yorkshire, Merseyside and Cumbria within the season to find the best opponents for competitive fixtures. Supported by a highly motivated and organised back room staff, coached by a dedicated team of 5 level 2 RFU coaches and with 2 level 2 RFU 

“THE EXPERIENCE WAS EVEN MORE INSPIRATIONAL WITH THE BOYS MEETING JASON ROBINSON AND BEING ALLOWED TO PARADE AROUND THE STADIUM AT HALF TIME WITH 82,000 PEOPLE APPLAUDING THEM.”

Team: Stockport Under 13s Team Captain Favourite rugby player : Richie McCaw Favourite position: Open side flanker Biggest inspiration: Richie McCaw Best rugby moment so far: Winning the Cheshire and Land Rover Cups for the 2nd consecutive year Favourite part of the game: Rucking Why do you enjoy playing for Stockport?: A good, friendly environment where I have made lots of friends What was it like meeting Jason Robinson at Twickenham?: I was excited for the whole day to meet an England World Cup winner.

For me it was the main highlight of the day and I was privileged and amazed to be presented an award from this England rugby hero. It was a moment I will never forget!

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

qualified referees in the ranks, the team have attained every target that they have set for themselves culminating in the winning of the 2 aforementioned prestigious competitions.

The Land Rover trophy is a tournament played at U11 & U12 age groups and sees each of the 12 tournament winners attend Twickenham on Premiership Final day. The premise is that Land Rover sponsor a tournament in each of the 12 areas where there is a Premiership rugby club, so through connection with Sale Sharks, the North West competition is held at Manchester RFC. In 2016, the boys attended and were treated to a talk by Martin Johnson and Lewis Moody followed by team photos on the hallowed surface. However for their second visit in 2017,

reserved for them. This was a touching and uplifting experience for everyone and an experience the boys will never forget.

On a personal note, team captain Daniel Robinson was voted Land Rover’s Most Valuable Player and was presented with this by Jason Robinson.

Having previously won their first Cheshire Cup beating Chester in 2016, the boys again backed this up by beating the same rivals in an epic 4-3 encounter held at Caldy RFC in 2017.

This season saw the boys play knockout rugby rather than the festival set up used by younger age groups and with the breadth of players available to us, we were able to put 2 teams into the main competition, with both reaching the

“YOU COULD HAVE WARREN GATLAND COACHING THE TEAM BUT IF THE PLAYERS AREN’T INTERESTED OR THE PARENTS NOT SUPPORTIVE IT WON’T WORK.” the experience was even more inspirational with the boys meeting Jason Robinson and being allowed to parade around the stadium at half time with 82,000 people applauding them. This visit came 5 days after the dreadful events at the Manchester Evening News arena and with the boys all wearing their ‘I Love Manchester’ t-shirts the biggest cheer of the day was

quarter finals demonstrating the strength of both the teams. Having seen the boys race into a 4-0 lead, in the final, Chester began to try and repair some of the damage but with an uphill task and time running out the Stockport lads saw it through to the end leaving captain Daniel Robinson to lift the same trophy for the 2nd season.

All in all, it is an absolute pleasure to be associated with this team whether that be in my role as a coach or more importantly my role as a parent. People always ask about the secrets of success and the answer with this team is always very simple. You have to have players who want to play, want to learn and want to improve. You have to have coaches who are dedicated and possess a drive to create the right environment and finally you have to have willing and supportive parents who buy into what is trying to be achieved. You could have Warren Gatland coaching the team but if the players aren’t interested or the parents not supportive it won’t work and likewise if you have disinteresting coaches. There has to be the staple triumvirate for all of this to work. But when it does there is nothing better!

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www.stockportrugby.co.uk

Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

The Man in the Middle AT STOCKPORT RUGBY CLUB, WE ARE FORTUNATE TO HAVE MANY VOLUNTEERS WHO HELP THE CLUB BRING AN EXCELLENT RUGBY EXPERIENCE TO EVERYONE. WE SPOKE WITH ONE OF STOCKPORT’S CHESHIRE AND LANCASHIRE SOCIETY REFEREES, RICHARD THOROGOOD, TO FIND OUT WHAT IT IS LIKE TO BE THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE… Why did you decide to be a referee?

I decided to take up the whistle whilst watching Stockport Under 8’s playing in the Cheshire Cup. As the boys were going to start to learn to tackle in the next season, I decided that they deserved to be refereed by someone who was willing to invest the time to learn how to do it properly. I now referee senior matches on a Saturday afternoon and this has really helped me learn the skills required to make sure the young players on Sunday mornings get a better standard of refereeing.

What was your first match like?

I remember thinking when I was about to blow the whistle for the start of the match ‘what are you doing?’ Looking back at it I was so nervous, but could not tell the players it was my first match and the first time I had been on a senior rugby pitch for twenty years. The match was quite dramatic too with a lastminute conversion making the score 28-28. I was so relieved when it was time to blow the final whistle.

“I REMEMBER DURING MY FIRST SEASON OFFICIATING AT AN UNDER 14 CUP SEMI-FINAL. A COUPLE OF BOYS GOT OVER EXCITED AND A HUGE FIGHT BROKE OUT.”

How does a referee continue to improve and learn the subtleties of the Rugby laws?

Of course, we learn by refereeing and by reading the laws but we also get some fantastic support from

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the Manchester and District Referee’s Society.

Regularly, volunteer match advisers come out and watch your match on a Saturday afternoon. Then afterwards in the clubhouse we discuss the match and areas to improve on next time. I can also ring them up during the week to discuss any issues that may have occurred in a match that they were not attending. It’s great to have that support network at all times. Also having other experienced referees within the club helps, as I can ask them about parts of a match I wish to understand better.

What was your most difficult match?

I remember during my first season officiating at an Under 14 cup semi-final. A couple of boys got over excited and a huge fight broke out. It was alarming to everyone and a few mums came onto the pitch to try and protect their child. Not an ideal situation. Thankfully, scuffles like this one were

THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE

discussed during our training course so I knew what to do in the situation. Although it must be difficult to watch, I’d advise any spectators to let the referees and coaches deal with these things.

Fortunately, it has never happened since!

Do you make mistakes?

If you ask a scrum half or hooker, the referee always makes mistakes! And I must admit that yes, I do sometimes make the wrong call. If it is very obvious I apologise and correct it on the pitch.

Sometimes, I do not know it was a mistake until reflecting on the match afterwards and mark it down as experience and learn from it. However, there is an important law in rugby which states that during a match the referee is always right and although no one wants to be remembered for relying on this, it is a reflection on the honourable way rugby is played and on how difficult it can be to get everything right.

Do you enjoy refereeing?

Absolutely, it is great fun being involved in competitive sport and being able to help others enjoy themselves by officiating. It is also a great way to stay active. I was once told ‘without you (the referee) I would be shopping with the missus.

So if you’re good or bad, I would rather be on the pitch playing, so thank you sir for turning up.’

Being in the middle you get a real sense of the crunching tackles and the commitment of the players; it’s exhilarating being so close when there is a really good game of rugby being played.

Do you notice the crowd?

At the level I referee on a Saturday afternoon, we do not get huge crowds, so everyone is close to the pitch. Therefore, if comments are directed my way I can often hear them clearly. Sometimes I wish I could stop the match and explain why I gave a particular decision or not, depending on what I saw. ‘Open your eyes ref’ is one of the first I remember in my debut season. I hope I do have them open every match. ‘Keep up ref’ is a phrase I have heard shouted at other referees and I’ve promised never to have shouted at me during one of my matches! It is important that the referee is fitter than the players which can be difficult when in the middle of an Under 15 junior match!!

Is there a difference refereeing Junior and Senior matches?

As a referee, you must remember that almost all rugby players have never read the laws of the game.

They are taught the basics by a coach or a teammate during the match. For the juniors sometimes it is their Dads who have told them four or five laws. A common trait between the levels is that if the captain starts to question the referee’s every decision, they are losing. It is at these times when the team needs leadership and the captain should focus on talking to his/her team and not questioning the referee. Fitness is the big difference. Juniors simply keep running and seniors know when we all need those extra few seconds’ rest at a scrum. It is not unusual for a junior match to include a few sprints the length of the pitch and the referee must keep up.

Would you recommend refereeing to anyone?

Definitely. It is great fun and a good way to keep yourself fit. I had not played rugby for twenty years before picking up the whistle, so it is never too late to get involved. If anyone is interested they should look at the Cheshire and Lancashire Society website www.madrefs.co.uk or look on the RFU website for a local training course. For those young enough they can even make a career out of it, such are the opportunities open to them. The club’s Under 16 team now has five junior referees as they attended the course as part of the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. Let’s hope one or two of them may go on to officiate in the premiership.

And of course Stockport Rugby Club would welcome more people like Richard, whether dusting your boots off after twenty years to become a society referee or just wanting to help the club with coaching; why not come down and give it a go.

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

HIGHER LEARNING WITH

THE SALE SHARKS

ACADEMY

By Mark Wigglesworth

WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE IN THE NORTH WEST TO DEVELOP THE BEST RUGBY TALENT? HOW DO YOU GO FROM GOOD TO GREAT? AND WHAT IS IT LIKE TO BE PART OF A PREMIERSHIP RUGBY CLUB?

These were all questions I went to Sale Sharks Academy to answer as a parent of an aspiring rugby player, but quickly learnt much more about Sale and its Academy and came away realising that there is much more to it than that.

I arrived at Sale Sharks’ Carrington Training Centre having only had an email introduction and

22

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a quick call to speak with Brendan Thomas, the Academy Manager.

When we met I was unsure who was the more nervous, me in my first assignment as a roving reporter or the man I expected to be battlehardened from previous encounters with media representatives much more adept than I.

HIGHER LEARNING WITH THE SALE SHARKS ACADEMY

However, we quickly found a common language in our enthusiasm for all things rugby, and settled our nerves as I was led on a tour of the facilities.

We casually strolled past Steve Diamonds’ office, I was introduced to coaching and support staff and saw the investments in equipment and facilities that left me in awe. Yet what was inspirational was that I got a sense of how important the club is to Brendan and the surprisingly small but dedicated group of people that make Sale and its Academy one of the best in the country. I’m sure not least because it retained the humility and practicalities of almost every club house. It was like being shown round someone’s family home, a home for a great rugby family.

first team player so perhaps more importantly the strength of these relationships means that “everyone gets a self-awareness of what their future will hold.” Whether that be in the Premiership or continuing to enjoy rugby with their local club there is an opportunity for everyone.

Talking to Brendan he is clearly proud of what has been achieved at Sale. Proud of the players, but most of all giving everyone an opportunity to be their best and proud of the forged relationships that enable a bold ambition.

Ambition; I asked how do you go from good to great, well of course the reply was to start at

“SALE SHARKS ACADEMY IS, THROUGH ITS COMMITMENT TO PLAYER DEVELOPMENT, BEGINNING TO ESTABLISH A REPUTATION AS ONE OF THE LEADING ACADEMIES IN THE COUNTRY” We settled in the boardroom and I began to rattle through my prepared questions, thankfully we also found time to explore away from these and an hour later, my heart still racing, this is what I had learnt.

Fortunately, we have one of the best Rugby Academies in the country right here in the North West; Sale Sharks Academy is, through its commitment to player development, beginning to establish a reputation as one of the leading Academies in the country, continually receiving excellent assessments from the games governing bodies whilst aiming to support each player to fulfil their potential and they have an excellent record of doing just that! The Academy has produced many quality players that have progressed into the Sharks first team; as well as developing players that have gone on to represent their country.

Of course, I learnt how players become fortunate enough to join the academy and that there is a defined pathway that you can find on the RFU website, but I also learnt that this only really works as a team game, clubs, schools, players and pxarents working together to ensure that everyone gets a chance and that over a long period this relationship allows Sale to: “Catch players in, give them every opportunity to succeed” yet not everyone can go on to be a

great and aim for world class! And this is not just something that was given lip service this is backed up by world class ambitions. Following CorpAcq takeover last year, the Academy has seen increased investment and are working more closely with the board, including veteran rugby star Fran Cotton and Dermot Power. This will serve as an inspiration but has also built business acumen into the everyday workings of the Academy. It demonstrates a strong commitment to developing young players; so strong in fact that the new business plan for Sale states that they aim to get 75% of the senior squad coming from the academy by 2020. If this ambition is fulfilled they will surely take top spot from Saracens, the only team above them, for developing home grown talent.

“It is our aim to develop the whole person, it’s an old rugby saying that better people make better players”.

Speed, Bravery, Coordination and Point of Difference (something that makes the player standout) help identify and develop the “Sale Sharks DNA”. Something that is taken very seriously and evidenced not only by the detailed plans and PowerPoints that described 

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

23

Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

so than Will Addison who said on signing his new contract in 2016 “The club have helped me develop as a player. I want to play my part in helping deliver success for the club and the supporters.”

them, but also in the explanation of conditioning strategies, medical screening and the requirement to project physical development of young players, all of which is part of the Academy’s role.

It’s compulsory that the players undertake educational programmes, that they are prepared for the possibility of life without rugby by learning transferable skills. Under a programme developed with students and academics from partner universities, Sale are also working to identify what world class mental toughness is. How it can be taught, learnt and played; so that the winning mentality is not only part of the coaching and goal setting for players, but is evidenced on the pitch in every game and embossed as part of the Sharks DNA. Having invested so much in these young players it is perhaps not surprising that the hardest part of being the Academy Manager is seeing players succeed and then move away from Sale, of course it is great to see players succeed but with the future looking as bright as the Sharks’ away kit, it is hoped that far fewer will be tempted to other clubs. Especially, if the recent news of 6 long term contracts for Junior Academy players continues to develop the type of talent and loyalty seen from previous graduates to the first team. Mark Jennings, Sam James and Will Addison who although they may never have been the subject of a high-profile transfer, they form a core of loyal and dedicated players that are invaluable to the ambitions of Sale Sharks. This is something that is recognised by the players too and none more

24

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

At Stockport, it is a bitter sweet (but more sweet) when players become successful and progress into Sales Academy. Tom Cruise who played at Stockport once graduated from the Academy and has gone on to join other premiership clubs. Talking about Tom, Brendan described how “he had the right attitude and an edge that meant he could go as far as he would like to take it.” We are fortunate to have 10 players from Stockport RUFC that are now also part of Sale’s Academy and we hope that they too can progress on to such accolades.

The most senior player within the Academy from Stockport is Tom Curtis and he features in our player profile to tell you a little more about what he loves about Rugby. It seems that Sale are looking to change the rule book for the Academy, looking not to follow others but to do it their own way developing new visions of what world class can be while enjoying each other’s company and looking for opportunities to celebrate success. Something that has not featured in the classical academy make up but is now seen in bringing the players together for tours and perhaps in the future awards dinners.

‘This desire to change and improve further defines unfinished business for the Academy and its true measure of success will be when it is recognised as delivering 75% of the first team and viewed as the jewel in the crown of North-West Rugby.

One last piece of advice from Brendan; enjoying the game and everything that comes with it is the key ingredient at any age and level. However, as a player moves up the competitive pathway there are many other things that a player needs to develop to succeed in elite rugby.

Thank you Mark Wigglesworth P.S. I took my son with me when we visited Sale and as we left he told me how wonderful it was to meet Brendan, meet the players and see the Academy, he then informed me that I probably wasn’t ever going to make a good journalist, hopefully I’ve managed to do Sale some justice.

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

The Lions Roar is

now even

louder

By Miles Rackliff (Lions and adopted Stockpot fan)

“The schedule of games is too demanding”, “They can never really challenge New Zealand”, “The Public has fallen out of love in the professional era”. How wrong they were!

I was lucky enough to be one of 20-30,000 Lions fans who travelled from all over the globe to lend their support and become part of the spirit that makes the Lions so special.

Kiwis are a nation of rugby lovers like no other. Footballs are swapped for rugby balls in parks and beaches up and down the country. It’s their number one sport, everyone has an opinion and an unfaltering belief that the All Blacks will not lose.

We stayed with a variety of Kiwi friends and their families as well as hopping on and off the tourist trail. Hiring a car, we travelled all over. If you haven’t been, the scenery is stunning,

26

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

IN SOME CORNERS OF THE PRESS, DOUBTS HAD BEEN RAISED THIS SUMMER OVER THE VIABILITY AND RELEVANCE OF THE BRITISH AND IRISH LIONS (BIL).

THE LIONS ROAR IS NOW EVEN LOUDER

“... EVERYONE HAS AN OPINION AND AN UNFALTERING BELIEF THAT THE ALL BLACKS WILL NOT LOSE.” mid-winter weather in the North and top of the South Island a high of eighteen degrees. There is a tangible charm and honesty to Kiwi life and they are very connected to the natural environment.

The kids seem to be much more carefree than the UK today, perhaps more 1970’s than 2010’s and often going barefoot to school (I know!) irrespective of wealth or status. Rugby shorts are an essential item of everyday uniform. No matter how remote you find yourself, you were never far from a rugby field, every village seemed to have a pair of posts. Many homes a flutter with the silver fern of the All Blacks flag. The pride and passion and rugby are such an integral part of everyday life is so obvious to see. No-where else on earth surely has rugby players advertising cheese, fast food, chainsaws and tin roofing? I told you it was a national obsession!

Travelling on a flight and three-test ticket package, myself and my wife joined the “Lions’ Den” party every afternoon before evening kick off. Thousands of Lions fans from all four home nations singing and coming together as one, entertained by Lions legends from tours gone by and an unlimited bar, which is always nice…It was the perfect way to soak up the atmosphere, become match ready and get into fine voice.

To the test games. By the time we landed all but one mid-week game was over. A mixture of success and close calls and oh those crucial wins against the Crusaders and Maori! Now the real business began and hopes were high on our 2nd night in New Zealand. Ignore the jet lag, embrace the local wine and sing on through. The sight of thousands of supporters streaming up Queen Street towards Eden park on a one mile adventure was a carnival of good nature and good spirits. AB’s fans absorbed into a procession of red and blue. The Lions were coming!

From our first test seats we could hear and see the Haka from behind the shoulders of the Lions players. The stadium was relatively small and everyone must have had a good view. 

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

27

Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

“LIONS! LIONS! LIONS!” sang out across Eden Park. The AB’s had us that night though, the Lions wonderful at times and frustrating at others, could we turn it around in just seven days?...

Auckland 3rd and final test. This was it. Last week it was fourteen All Blacks on the park. This week they had the audacity to start with fifteen again. Butterflies were rife and very angry. The

“THE LION’S DEN WAS EVEN MORE BUOYANT THAN BEFORE, OPTIMISM, BELIEF AND HOPE IN EQUAL MEASURE.” Wellington 2nd Test. After a week of walking along the beautiful coastline of the Abel Tasman national park, we were now ready as we arrived in the monsoon that is Wellington. It was wet, very, very wet! Thankfully we were sheltered in our seats but waterproof trousers and Lions ponchos were ready if needed. This was the must win game, no one wants to be a plucky loser. What happened next is well recorded but the intensity off the field more than equalled the tension on it. The crowd and support was immense, I have never been to a game like it. The song of the moment was “Ohhhh Maro-hhhh Ito-hhhhjeeee” a constant loop interspersed with LIONS! LIONS! LIONS! I lost my voice. The Kiwis had commissioned a song of their own for the series but was drowned out like the ticket tout sellers in the car park.

Final whistle: The crowd went potty! It is at this point I would like to formally apologise to the couple in front, the lady to my left and both gentlemen behind, all of which had the full attention of my embraces and kisses. We had won!

What happens next has been sensored, as what happens on tour stays on tour.

28

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

unthinkable had happened in every Kiwi’s mind, now surely was the time to tame the Lion and send us packing? The Lion’s Den was even more buoyant than before, optimism, belief and hope in equal measure. Ben Kay’s song of Tadhg Furlong. Furlong to the tune of “Que Sera..

Sera” a work of genius. Google it. Final whistle: “A draw? Is that possible, surely somebody has won?” Was the general consensus. This soon faded as the realisation that we had not only beaten the All Blacks once, but drawn a series with the double time world champions sank in.

What a series it was. The spirit has grown even more. I have started saving for South Africa already!

Footnote: The flight home revealed more surprises as to the delight of my wife and many fans. The Lions team were changing into their travel clothes as we walked through business class to our more affordable seats. I chatted to a few on the 28-hour trip home. All ready to take a well-earned break for a few weeks and reflect on what had been a wonderful tour. Well done boys, well done!

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

Stockport Rugby Club Community facility

By Haidee Langtree & Ray Bell

AT STOCKPORT RUGBY CLUB, WE HAVE AN EXCELLENT INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SPACE TO CATER FOR A RANGE OF DIFFERENT EVENTS FROM BIRTHDAY PARTIES TO MORE FORMAL AFFAIRS. DEPENDING ON YOUR LAYOUT AND TYPE OF EVENT, OUR VENUE CAN HOST UP TO 120 GUESTS.

We have a unique venue that benefits from on-site, free parking for over 100 vehicles, lush, green surroundings and easy access to local transport links. Our indoor space is suitable for anything from informal parties, balls or corporate events such as training days, networking events or meetings. Ask our dedicated events team for options of room layouts and formats.

The outdoor space is also perfect for a team building event for your staff, a family fun day

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

or management team away day and can be delivered to a theme of your choosing. With four rugby pitches, changing room facilities, clubhouse and licenced bar, our outdoor space is also hired out for football tournaments, charity events, boot camps and music festivals.

If you require more than just the venue, we can also provide entertainment through our trusted partners from bouncy castles & animal experiences to DJs & children’s entertainers.

STOCKPORT RUGBY CLUB COMMUNITY FACILITY

We can provide catering or you have the option to bring in your own caterers.

Our events team will be delighted to speak to you about any event you are planning, whether you require a great local space to hire for your pre-planned event or a fully bespoke event that

we can tailor to your specific requirements.

By choosing our venue for your event, we believe you will not only have access to the ideal space for excellent value but you will be directly supporting a community sports club and the development of grassroots sport.

“BY CHOOSING OUR VENUE FOR YOUR EVENT, WE BELIEVE YOU WILL NOT ONLY HAVE ACCESS TO THE IDEAL SPACE FOR EXCELLENT VALUE BUT YOU WILL BE DIRECTLY SUPPORTING A COMMUNITY SPORTS CLUB AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF GRASSROOTS SPORT.”

Untitled map Untitled layer

Suitable for

Birthday parties • Children’s parties • Sporting events • Christenings • Wedding anniversary • Celebrations • Conferences • Large scale barbeques • Discos • Family reunions • Quiz nights • Gourmet nights • Theme nights For booking enquiries please contact Haidee Langtree (M) 07703 165 723 (E) ladytree71@gmail.com

Club location: Stockport Rugby Club The Memorial Ground, Headlands Rd Bramhall, Stockport, SK7 3AN Club: 07516 449 002

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

31

PROJECTS

Regenerating landscapes for future generations Please visit www.crtprojects.co.uk for more information.

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

Stockport RUFC

Contacts List Club Executive President: Clive Oldham (M) 07551 678 828 Chairman Stockport RUFC: Ged Gurney (M) 07736 517 765 Chief Exec: Stewart Bertenshaw (M) 07838 605 178 Club Secretary: John Curzon (M) 07447 928 873 Club Treasurer: Roger Dyson (M) 07801 555 171 Chairman of Rugby: Mike Drew (M) 07976 623 361 Mini and Junior Section Chairman: Neil Wakefield (M) 07876131687 Press Officer: Michael Atkinson (M) 07985 620 747 Steward & all booking enquiries: Haidee Langtree (M) 07703 165 723

Team Contacts Ray Bell raybell1975@gmail.com 07767 656677

Gemma Schofield gemma@gbhomesuk.com 07801 989682

U12 Richard Thorogood Richard@crtprojects.co.uk

077686 26851

O2 Touch Contact

Sarah Mennie smennie@btinternet.com 07834 528210

U13 Keith Warhurst kwarhurst1@gmail.com

078138 87771

Stockport Scarlets Women’s Team

Ben Chadwick chadders15@hotmail.com 079671 96149

U14 Richard Wynne

richardwynne57@hotmail.com

077395 56679

Stockport All Stars

Myles Mason mylesmason@aol.com 078409 07757

Casual / U15 Nick Brown

Friday Floodlit nick@nickbrownphoto.co.uk

078318 31049 Rugby

Simon Bollington simonbollington@yahoo.co.uk 07896 960480

U10 Tom O’Neill TONeill@savills.com

079675 55810

U16 Mark Hiney

mark.hiney@btinternet.com

075402 89777

Kieran Hibbs 07584 049322 kieranhibbs@gmail.com

U6

U7

U8

U9

U11 Matthew Langtree

langtree.matthew@gmail.com

075275 44613

34

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

U18 Gemma Schofield gemma@gbhomesuk.com 07989854356

Club Captain Senior Head Coach

Kate Avery kateaveryuk@hotmail.com 07891 547262 Kay Weeks kay.weeks@ntlworld.com 0161 4275595

Dean Schofield scowy4@hotmail.co.uk 07703 722966

STOCKPORT RUFC INFORMATION

Stockport RUFC

information & fixtures Stockport RUFC First XV Home League Games October 2017

March 2018

Sat 21, 15:00 St Benedicts

Sat 03, 15:00 Vale of Lune

Sat 28, 15:00 Douglas (I.O.M.)

Sat 24, 15:00 Warrington

November 2017

April 2018

Sat 11, 14:15 Rochdale

Sat 14, 15:00 h Burnage

December 2017

National Cup, County Cup and friendly games will be scheduled in addition to these.

Sat 02, 14:15 Northwich Sat 16, 14:15 Manchester January 2018 Sat 13, 14:15 Altrincham Kersal Sat 27, 14:15 Wilmslow

Please come and support us entry fees are £5/head Season tickets £50 (including all home, League, Cup and Friendly Games)

You can also visit the Club’s website at www.stockportrugby.co.uk to get more information

A note from

the editor Firstly, I hope you enjoyed reading about Stockport Rugby Club and some of the fantastic things we have on offer. I would also like to thank everyone who has contributed to the magazine content, on and off the field. Especially Platform81 for producing this magazine with us. Finally, I would like to ask all our members and readers to support the club and all of the companies who have advertised in this magazine.

Mark Wigglesworth.

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

Stockport All Stars It was born out of a desire to make Stockport RUFC a fully inclusive Rugby Club and to give many youngsters with mobility problems and severe learning difficulties the opportunity to take a full part in local mainstream sport. As this is tag rugby, no physical contact is involved. Over the years, 50 different youngsters have enjoyed this opportunity and we have a regular turn out of about 15-20 each week.

38

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

STOCKPORT ALL STARS SPECIAL TAG RUGBY SQUAD HAS BEEN IN EXISTENCE FOR 14 YEARS AND HAS GONE FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH.

By Kay Weeks

Because we are a Club based group, our presence has made a big difference to the Club ethos. Numerous visiting teams have shown an interest in what we are doing and some of the senior players have come to help us with coaching. We are lucky to have supportive parents and carers who help us in many ways.

STOCKPORT ALL STARS

We have been very grateful to get financial support from Forever Manchester, Aiming High, The Community Network Fund, Grassroots, Wooden Spoon, Advanced Insolation PLC and have also had several generous individual donations. This has enabled us to extend our activities into taking the youngsters away ‘on tour’.

This year we attended the 12th International Special Tag tournament at Witney and had a fantastic time. We have also enjoyed playing at Limerick, Bristol, Matlock Bath, Swansea, Worcester and Sale and we are looking forward to going away again this year.

The youngsters have benefited in countless ways including: increased self-confidence, a wider social network, better communication

skills, physical activity and above all, a chance to have fun with their peers. Parents and carers have also benefited from the opportunity of a well-deserved break and a chance to socialise. If anyone is interested in widening their experience of coaching, or finding out more about us, please get in touch. You would find the experience most rewarding.

“RUGBY FRIENDS CERTAINLY ARE FRIENDS FOR LIFE!”

For further details contact Kay Weeks on 0161 427 5595 or email kay.weeks@ntlworld.com

www.stockportrugby.co.uk

39

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QUICK QUIZ

QUICK QUIZ CROSSWORD

2 CROSSWORD

1, How many drop goals did Jonny Wilkinson score for England during the 2003 world cup?

Down 2. Stockports U17 England player (3,6) 3. The ball must travel between them for a conversion (5) 4. On display at Stockport RUFC on 3rd November (8) 6. Home of English Rugby (10) 7. The referees name (3)

2, At 19 years and 166 days, who is the youngest try scorer in world cup history?

3, which player has made the most rugby world cup appearances with 22?

4, in which American City did Ireland beat the All Blacks 40-29?

5, Which Japanese city will host the 2019 world cup final?

3

6, how many players from each team can contest a scrum?

4

5

7, How many consecutive wins did the All blacks string together before defeat to Ireland in November 2016?

6 7 8

8, who is the only Welshman to referee a rugby world cup final?

9

9, Which two players jointly hold the record for the most tries scored in a single world cup (8)?

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10, who has the record for the most 6 nation’s appearances?

11 11

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1, 8 2, George North 3, Jason Leonard Quiz Answers

4, Chicago 5, Yokohama 6, 8 7, 18 8, Derek Bevan

9, Jona Lomu/ Bryan Habana 10, Brian O’Driscoll

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Across 1. If a team commits a foul the other team gets a (7) 5. Stockport ladies team (9) 8. Where players are sent if they get a yellow card (3,3) 10. Where Stockport RUFC play (8,4) 11. World cup champions (3,6) 9. Five points for a (3)

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Touchline - The Stockport Rugby Club Magazine / Autumn 17

Player Profile: Tom Curtis Team: Stockport, Cheadle Hulme and Sale Sharks Favourite rugby player : Currently Owen Farrell Favourite position: Fly Half Biggest inspiration: Jonny Wilkinson Best rugby moment so far: Off the pitch - one on one kicking practice with Jonny Wilkinson out in Toulon as my step dad, Dean Schofield, is friends with him and was his teammate at Toulon. On the pitch - making it through to Sale Under 18’s this year, after a serious cut of the Under 16 group and earning a rugby scholarship to Sedbergh school to do my A-Levels.

Favourite part of the game: Kicking - for territory or to clear lines, to create an opportunity or goal kicking, it’s one of my best skills.

Why do you enjoy playing for Stockport?: I only started playing rugby when I joined year 7 at Cheadle Hulme school in 2012, prior to that I was all about football, I only came to Stockport RUFC late September 2012 despite my grandad being heavily involved at Stockport RUFC for years. Stockport has been a great club for me and has helped me build my rugby skills and confidence. It’s my local club and always will be a big part of my family, my mum helps out there a lot, my step dad will be Player Coach this year, my grandfather is Chief Exec, my uncle used to play for them, my 5-year-old brother is in the Under 6’s, my 2-year old brother can’t wait to play, Stockport RUFC is a big part of our lives.

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What is it like meeting professional players at Sale?: I have been lucky that I have been around professional players growing up and many of them are friends so it doesn’t faze me meeting big names, of course I totally respect what they have achieved. I enjoy talking to our family friends Mark Cueto and Richard Wigglesworth about rugby and taking advice from them as they have proven themselves at the top level as has my step dad. They all want the best for me and to help and that’s really good of them. My dad, John Curtis, played professional football at Man Utd, Blackburn, Portsmouth and Leicester so I am familiar with a pro-sport environment - and yes, my dad is actually really happy I have picked the other shape ball! He thinks it’s a much better sport for me!

How has rugby changed your life?

Rugby is completely different to football - I came through the Man Utd development academy for a couple of years with my football but it’s quite cut throat, and political - I find rugby is much more honest there is a lot of good people in the sport and you’re judged on your talent - rugby has given me the opportunity to potentially play a sport I love, at a decent level. And I’m going to give that my best shot!

What does Rugby mean to you?

Rugby is my life, along with my studies, I prioritise it over going out with friends or any other distractions.

And Ken Kierens, Tom’s first coach at Stockport, verifies this for us: “Tom Curtis, what can I say…If anybody deserves to reach the top, this is the guy. What a young man.”

“Never have I seen a player with so much determination, will power and skill at such an early age. We would chat often after games, Tom asking for feedback on his overall performance in the match.”

He put the time in, in the gym and off the pitch. He often just takes himself off to the club with a bag of balls to kick 50 goals alone in the evening or a Saturday afternoon to improve, and he has done this since he was 12.

“It gave me goosebumps watching one of our players showing that much dedication to his role within our team, giving up his Saturday afternoon.”

And hopefully Tom will get his chance in the first team at Stockport RUFC and continue to be part of the great things happening at our club: “My grandad has also supported me a lot and I really want to make him proud by pulling on a Stockport 1st team jersey as soon as I’m old enough next year.

Of course, he will be immensely proud if I get a professional contract at Sale Sharks but I do want a game for Stockport 1st if my schedule with school and Sale allows, just for him.”

Tom has also just received some fantastic news having been called up for the England U17/18 training camp.

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STOCKPORT

Rugby Union Football Club presents

Bramhall

FIREWORK & MUSIC Festival

Friday 3rd November at 6pm

Advance Tickets AVAILABLE NOW from

www.stockportrugby.co.uk via

Tickets can also be purchased from Wild Things Play Centre or the Rugby Club Bar

E 6 LIV S BAND N AI ON M E STAG

Children’s Firework Display 6:30pm Main Firework Display 8:00pm

FIREW

ORKS CHOR EOGR APHE D

Advance Tickets

£20 for family of 2 adults & up to 3 children (3-16s) Individual tickets £5 each FOOD CKETS

DRINK CAKES

FUN FADIERS RI

£2-£4

Under 3s FREE

LIMITED AVAILABILITY ON THE GATE ADVANCE PURCHASE ESSENTIAL Priority on site parking £3 with pre-purchased tickets

VIP Family Tickets Available

TO MUSIC

TI H THROUG E WEBSIT ‘IGNITE ’ FIRE DANCE RS PER

Includes Parking, Private Bar & WC Use PLUS Access to Exclusive Viewing Balcony - £50

FORMIN G

STOCKPORT RUGBY CLUB . HEADLANDS ROAD . BRAMHALL . SK7 3AN Free overflow parking available at Hazel Grove High School, Jacksons Lane, 5 mins walk away

L IM IT E D T IC KE T S: AD V ANC E P U R C H A SE H IG H L Y R E C O M M E N D E D !