Issuu

PROUD MEMBER OF THE ROUND SQUARE NETWORK OF

Alan Holmes, Director of Rugby, AKS Lytham

WELCOME TO THE WOODLANDS

As we gather to celebrate this cherished Boxing Day tradition, I extend a warm welcome to everyone present. This occasion stands as testament to the enduring camaraderie and unwavering support for Fylde RFC, turning what might otherwise be a quiet day into a vibrant and memorable celebration.

For those with a historical perspective, Boxing Day once featured thrilling matches between Fylde and Preston Grasshoppers. This spirited rivalry was a hallmark of the day until the professional era of rugby union and the advent of league competitions changed the landscape.

We owe a great debt to the vision of Mark Worsley (Old Arnoldian) and the late Michael Pemberton (Old Lidunian), whose efforts brought together two proud rugby traditions. Thanks to their inspiration, this event unites former pupils of both schools — some of whom have been gracing the pitch for more than half a century. Together, they honor the legacies of coaches Phill Rudd and Robbie Jones, rekindling memories and forging new ones.

None of this would be possible without the tireless efforts of our dedicated volunteers. From team coordination and liaison with Fylde RFC to gate management and organizing the raffle, your passion and commitment ensure the success of this event. Today’s proceeds will go toward the former pupils’ associations, in support of the AKS Lytham Foundation, a cause close to our hearts.

A special acknowledgment goes to the players who take to the field today, keeping this remarkable tradition alive. This unique event is a proud hallmark of our community, and it’s truly unparalleled across the UK. It speaks volumes about the strength of our shared heritage and the passion for the game that binds us all.

As we look forward to the continuation of this wonderful legacy, I wish everyone a joyful and prosperous New Year.

Anthony Hoskisson President

of Fylde Rugby Club, Chairman of the Old Arnoldians and The OAKS (former pupils of Arnold)

STAY CONNECTED with your OAKS alumni through our alumni engagement website, oaks connect.com

OAKS is the AKS alumni for our legacy schools Arnold, Kind Edward VII, Queen Mary, KEQMS and graduates from AKS today, plus past and present teachers as we move into the future as a combined alumni encapsulating each school under the OAKS association.

This website serves as a great networking platform enabling users to:

• connect – find and reminisce with fellow former students, see what they have been up to and stay in touch.

• support AKS students today with careers education and mentoring. Regardless of age, city or occupation, all will be invited to introduce, mentor, employ or offer work experience to AKS students to provide them with real world insight for life after school and higher education.

• expand their professional network to get introduced to people they should know through the AKS OAKS trusted platform.

• keep updated with alumni news and events.

• keep updated with what is going on at AKS Lytham today.

Dear friends, family and supporters, welcome to this very special annual tradition of our OAKS Rugby match between the Old Arnoldians and the Old Lidunians.

This annual fixture is an inevitable highlight of the festive calendar, but it is about so much more than just rugby. It is a celebration of tradition, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit that brings us all together — whether it’s been one year or many since we last donned the School colours.

Christmas is a time to reflect on the importance of connection — of coming together, cherishing memories and looking forward to the future. Today’s match offers us all a chance to celebrate what has come before and to look forward with excitement to the next chapter.

Rugby, at its heart, is about more than winning or losing. It’s about teamwork, respect, discipline and determination. These values are at the core of the sport and are deeply embedded in the ethos of AKS. Today, I am sure we will witness an exciting brand of rugby — fast and free-flowing — much of which AKS aims to foster in all of its players, but most of all a love for the game.

We are also rightly proud to have strong ties with the Rugby Club, who have been a valued partner over the years. Their support and hospitality have been crucial in allowing us to nurture and develop the next generation of Fylde RFC senior players, helping them thrive. We thank everyone at Fylde RFC for their kind hospitality and for making today’s match possible.

This year, we are also excited to announce the launch of #GameChanger, a new bursary scheme designed to support young athletes who may face financial barriers to attending a school such as AKS and its comprehensive sporting opportunities. This initiative reflects our commitment to providing opportunities for all, ensuring that the values of sport and AKS are accessible to the next generation, regardless of their background. We are excited to see the impact #GameChanger will have and we believe it will be a true game-changer for those who benefit from it.

On behalf of the entire Sports Department, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a wonderful day of rugby. Let’s embrace the spirit of the season and enjoy what promises to be a thrilling and memorable match.

Richard Chadwick Director of Sport, AKS Lytham