Royal Wootton Bassett RFC vs Keynsham RFC

PROUD TO SUPPORT Royal Wootton Bassett RFC

Chairman’s Welcome

A WARM WELCOME TO KEYNESHAM FOR THEIR FIRST SENIOR FIXTURE AGAINST RWBRFC AT BALLARDS ASH

Last week, our opponents got off to a flying start against Old Cents with a very solid home win.

For our part, despite a stuttering display against Gordano, we ultimately ran out comfortable winners and collected five good away points. I’m sure that both teams will be looking to replicate their performances today.

I think we also must mention our 2nd XV who had a superb victory over Yeovil last week in their first match. This year their league opposition consists of all 1st XVs, so they are really up against it.

That said, initial signs are good!

Today we are planning to donate the proceeds of our lunchtime raffle to the Prospect Hospice. A number of our Vice Presidents give up their time to maintain the gardens at the Hospice. They are desperately in need of a new mower to make their job easier, so that’s how we are trying to help today. Please try and give generously!

chris Elias | Chairman, RWBRFC

RWBRFC 2nd XV vs Yeovil RFC | 2nd Sept 2023

GETTING TO KNOW...

NAME: JAMIE DAVISON | AGE: 24 |

What inspired you to start playing rugby, and how long have you been part of the sport?

I started playing when I was 5 year old. I was really fat so usually I was bigger than everyone my age... until everyone else started growing!

How do you mentally or physically prepare on the morning of a big rugby match?

I try to get a good rest the night before and get up early to prep my bag and fuel up.

POSITION: BACK ROW

When you were a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

I always wanted to be a firefighter.

What do you do now for a day job?

I own a building and construction company in Wiltshire & Oxfordshire. A carpenter by trade.

Away from the rugby field, how do you unwind?

I unwind by doing absolutely nothing and eating things I absolutely shouldn’t, and getting on my girlfriends last nerve.

What’s your go-to pre-game meal that you believe gives you the perfect energy boost before hitting the field?

On the morning before a game I always have the same meal: smashed avocado on toast with a poached egg and smoked salmon.

Playing rugby requires a combination of strength, speed, skills & strategy. Which of these qualities do you think you most excel in, and which would you like to improve?

I think my strength and speed helps me a lot, but I definitely need to improve strategy and decision making. Partly to help myself, but mainly to get Lowie off my back.

On or off the field, which qualities do you think sets RWBRFC apart from other clubs?

I’ve got more club ties than hairs on my chest, but RWBRFC are head and shoulders above teams for the camaraderie and the family feel. Everyone knows everyone and everyone makes an effort to include you, which reflects on the pitch because you want to play for your family!

If RWBRFC had an official mascot costume, what do you think it should be, and who would wear it?

There’s only one man that could step up to be mascot, and that would be Connor Tomley wearing a scrum hat and a match shirt three sizes too small for him.

This season we are celebrating the important role our coaches play throughout all sections of our club. Who was the best coach during your rugby career, and why?

Embracing the fact I’ll be getting stick from my teammates reading this for being a suck up, I’d have to say Lowie. It’s the attention to very small details that he notices and determination to make players the best possible version of themselves. He knows how to get results from people and he sets a standard that he expects from us as a group.

As you run onto the pitch at the start of a game, what song should be played as your theme tune?

I don’t have much of a preference, probably something by Foo Fighters, but I’d I let Chris Roshier decide. He’d play the Love Island theme tune.

When travelling to an away fixture by coach, who would you purposely not sit next to, and why?

I’ll do my best to get on before Tyler Booth. You do not want to sit next to him after he’s had a Double XL Sally Pussey Breakfast and 2-pint milkshake.

We have some promising young players moving up to senior rugby. Is there anyone we should keep our eye on?

Roo Robello - the only person I’ve seen step his own teammates and still score.

Among your teammates, who has the most annoying pre-game ritual or superstition, and what is it?

Ben Wilkinson sprinting into the changing room with his suitcase following behind him screaming “RUGBY!” for 25 minutes…

If there was a Zombie Apocalypse, which teammate would you take with you to help you escape?

I’d have to pick Rob Hart, every chance he gets, he’d tell every zombie about his glory days as club captain for Romsey RFC, and just as all the zombies start to fall asleep, that’s when I’ll sneak out the back door.

What is your best physical feature?

My girlfriend would probably say the back of me, when I’m leaving out the front door for the day.

So far, what has been your biggest achievement in the sport?

My biggest achievement would be the fact I’m still playing. I took a long time out of rugby and sport after losing my dad at 15, but being back and playing a good standard with some really close mates makes it all so worth it!

And also pick the shortest bus journey when you make your first team debut!

Finally, it’s been 10 years since our club moved to Ballards Ash... What’s your favourite Ballards Ash memory you hold close to your heart? Unfortunately I haven’t had the privilege of being at Bassett during the crossover to Ballards Ash from Stoneover, but in my short time here so far, the Cider Festival is an unbelievable few days, but winning the Counties Cup with the 2nd team is something I’ll hold close to me!

What advice would you give to younger players in our club?

My advice to younger players would be to not put too much pressure on themselves, but to also keep fit and strong outside of rugby to suppress injury during it.

Second half surge sees Bassett go seven up after a stuttering first half

Royal Wootton Bassett kicked off the new season with a good win over Bristol side Gordano in the first meeting in nearly forty years. Bassett eventually scoring seven tries after eventually overcoming a determined Gordano side who worked hard throughout.

Gordano started well and took the game to Bassett spending time in the Bassett half. Bassett also made some early unforced errors that added to the pressure.

In the 9th minute Bassett’s backrow were caught offside and Gordano led 3-0 with a simple penalty. With the game in a midfield stalemate Bassett lost skipper Gavin Ougan to a yellow in the 20th minute.

Despite this Bassett went on the attack and the first incisive back movement saw the debutant wing Henry Toomer join the line and race over for a neat try. Fly half Sam Baker converted.

trouble and full back Charles Brook was able to power over.

Gordano struck back with a try in the corner after a sustained sequence of phases. This effort however was to be their last as Bassett cut loose in the final quarter. Thomas Blinkhorn scythed through the defence to score under the posts. Shortly after a superb fast movement along the back division was held up but the ball was popped up to hooker Scott Parry who drove over.

In the dying minutes Bassett added to their tally when centre Scott Douglas outpaced the defence to score in the corner. Baker added all the conversions.

Just before the interval a quickly taken penalty by Baker freed up Ougan who powered over for Bassett to lead 12-3 at the break.

Gordano had started to tire but the interval revived them and they again came out determined to take the game to Bassett. However, it was Bassett who extended their lead when Jack Daynes forced his way over after a lineout drive was held up. Baker converted.

Gordano then added a converted try after an excellent lineout and drive. A quickly taken penalty from Baker had Gordano in

M atch report | George Loughlin

Match Photography | Chris Elias

Today’s TEAMS

SAT 9 SEPTEMBER 2023 |

REGIONAL 2 TRIBUTE SEVERN SW

ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT RFC KEYNSHAM RFC

Team selection

Chris Roshier *

Scott Parry

Harry Daynes *

Jack Daynes *

Joe Pettit *

Ollie Baycroft *

Josh McCafferty *

Gavin Ougan (Captain) *

Rhys Floyd *

Sam Baker

Michael Clifton *

Connor Tomley *

Scott Douglas (Vice-Captain) *

Henry Toomer

Charlie Brook

Replacements

Phil Bardwell *

Jamie Davison

Tucker Blinkhorn *

Team List not supplied AT TIME Of going to press

Please support today’s officials as they play a crucial role. Team selections are subject to change.

* Graduate of RWBRFC Youth Section

Referee | Mark Lenton-Jinks Physio | Wendy LearmontH

BACKING THE BIG DOG TRAIL

Our senior squad support the Julia’s House Children’s Hospices Big Dog Art Trail. Here the boys stand with the ‘Adventure Hound’, sponsored by Imagine Cruising at Swindon Train Station, a tribute to the journeys of Sir David Hempleman Adams, who was born in Swindon.

30 larger than life balloon dog sculptures – the Swindogs – were unleashed across town during the Summer in aid of Julia’s House, a local children’s hospice charity, providing care for seriously ill children and their families across Wiltshire and Dorset.

“Imagine Cruising were delighted to be Community Partner for The Big Dog Art Trail. It is vital that we do all we can to raise awareness about Julia’s House children’s hospice and we’re thrilled to do so in such an engaging way that brings art and culture to the heart of Swindon.”

Robin Deller, Imagine Cruising’s CEO

JOIN US INSIDE AFTER THE MATCH

Catch the 2023 Rugby World Cup on the Bassett Big Screen

We are hoping you will stick around after today’s match for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, where you can catch all the action on the Bassett Big Screen.

Tonight England will play Argentina, with the match kicking off at 8pm at the iconic Stade de Marseille.

Happy Hour!

Join us for ‘Happy hour’ at the clubhouse bar today from 7pm to 8pm for 25% off all drinks before England’s opening World Cup match vs. Argentina.

3 Big reasons why we love the Bassett Big Screen:

Unbeatable Atmosphere: The Ballards Ash clubhouse is the heart of rugby in the area. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or just looking for a great time with friends, our big screen viewing is the place to be during the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Big Screen Brilliance: The Bassett Big Screen brings every pass, tackle, and try to life. It’s probably the next best thing to being at the stadium!

Free Entry: Come in, grab a seat, and immerse yourself in the action. Don’t miss a single moment of the 2023 Rugby World Cup at Royal Wootton Bassett RFC!

RUGBY WORLD CUP Dates TO REMEMBER

Key dates for England and Wales fans during the Pool stages:

Saturday, Sept 9

England vs. Argentina, Stade de Marseille, 8pm kick-off

Sunday, Sept 10

Wales vs. Fiji, Stade de Bordeaux, 8pm

Saturday, Sept 16

Wales vs. Portugal, Stade de Nice, 4.45pm

Sunday, Sept 17

England vs. Japan, Stade de Nice, 8pm

Saturday, Sept 23

England vs. Chile, St. Pierre-Mauroy, 4.45pm

Sunday, Sept 24

Wales vs. Australia, OL Stadium, 8pm

Saturday, Oct 7

Wales vs. Georgia, St. de la Beaujoire, 2pm

Saturday, Oct 7

England vs. Samoa, Stade Pierre-Mauroy, 4.45pm

Sponsor a Senior Rugby Player

CHOOSE YOUR FAVOURITE PLAYER | SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!

Whether you are a friend, family, employer, or local business - the members of our senior playing squad would welcome your sponsorship for this season.

By becoming a player sponsor, you’ll not only contribute to the growth and success of our senior playing squad, but you’ll also gain exposure and recognition for your generosity.

Welcome new leadership team

Incredibly, it has been 10 years since we relocated to Ballards Ash, and a tremendous amount has been accomplished during that time.

Now, as the club gears up for the next 10year phase of development, and with the recent retirement of Mark Wightman as President of RWBRFC, the rugby club has announced significant changes in several key areas of its executive management.

New Club President

Assuming the role of Club President is former Vice-Chairman Andrew Gassor. We caught up with Andrew and asked him about his plans for his new position.

“I am deeply honoured to have been invited by the Executive Committee to serve as President of the rugby club. Historically, the President’s role was viewed as a hierarchical position, filled by a respected member of the communityand my predecessor, Mr Mark Wightman, certainly embodied that role. But Mark also demonstrated the need for the President to be fully engaged. In addition to being a figurehead for the club, Mark’s contributions behind the scenes have greatly benefited the entire club. While I certainly do not aspire to having any hierarchical community standing, I will do my best to emulate the support previously given throughout the Club.”

“The club’s management must continue to evolve into a strong, progressive team for the future. With new individuals come fresh ideas, and it has been gratifying to witness new volunteers join the executive team recently. Under the capable leadership of our Chairman, Chris Elias, these individuals may feature in future succession plans whenever the need arises. I wish them every success and will provide support wherever possible.”

New Vice Chairman

Assuming Andrew’s former role as Vice Chairman is Dave Thompson, who many are already familiar with as a coach of the club’s Under 15s team.

“I’ve been associated with the club since 2003 when my son Dan started playing in the Minis, I have gradually become more involved in volunteering at RWBRFC,” explained Dave. “When my younger son Chris began playing, I started coaching rugby, and I am coaching the U15s this season. I completed the RFU Leadership Course during the 2016/17 season and have enthusiastically supported many Vice Presidents lunches over the years!”

“Having been elected to the position of Vice Chairman at this year’s AGM, I am acutely aware of the trust placed in me,

and I will do everything in my power to continue moving the club forward and upholding the club’s high standards set by those who came before me.”

New appointments

Also joining the Exec is Dave Floyd, who has agreed to retake the Clubhouse Manager role, and Suzie Cullen, team manager for the under-6s, under-7s and under-9s age groups who has been invited to join the committee this season as Strategic Planning Manager.

“I have three children, two of whom play in our Minis and Juniors, and my husband plays in the Seniors” explained Suzie.

“Due to the extraordinary growth across the club, part of my role will be reviewing and mapping all the processes which take place across all sections of the club. We plan to make improvements by automating and documenting many of those processes.”

Chairman, Chris Elias, warmly welcomed the new additions to the leadership team. “It’s fantastic to welcome Dave Thompson, Dave Floyd, and Suzie Cullen to the Exec, as they bring a wealth of experience from various aspects of the club. Undoubtedly, they will have a busy time ahead as we enter the new season!”

Minis Players of the Week | 3rd Sept 2023

Under 6 | Alicia

Alicia played really well at the first session back today. She listened and helped new players out.

Under 7 | Georgia

Georgia was very focused during the under 7s session today. She worked well with her team and waited her turn patiently.

Under 9 | Joe

Joe did amazingly well at under 9s first contact session. He listened to the coaches and helped new players.

Under 10 | Amabelle

Amabelle Lovell won the tackle of the week and got to take home the team’s new mascot!

TEAMS BOND AT MOJO ACTIVE

Last weekend, Royal Wootton Bassett’s U16s and Colts teams joined forces for an action-packed day of team building at Mojo Active in Bristol.

The day featured Archery Tag, an Assault Course, Orienteering, and Tree Climbing, aimed at strengthening teamwork and camaraderie. These activities were not only fun but also vital preparation for the upcoming season.

The Bassett coaches praised the boys, saying the activities brought the two teams closer and fostered unity and determination.

Tomorrow, the Colts kick off their season with a Home match against Supermarine Colts at 2pm. Their Mojo Active experience promises to boost their performance as they face the challenges of the season ahead.

Find more photos at rwbrfc.club

League Table

RWBRFC 1ST XV |

REGIONAL 2 TRIBUTE SEVERN SW

Royal Wootton Bassett RFC

Website | www.rwbrfc.club

Club Hire | www.meetatbassett.co.uk

Twitter | @ RWBassetRFC

Facebook | @ RWBRFC

Instagram | @ RWBRFC

Threads | @ RWBRFC

Linkedin | @ wootton-bassett-rfc-ltd

Youtube | @ RoyalWoottonBassettRFC

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NEXT TIME

JOIN US FOR MORE RUGBY ACTION AT BALLARDS ASH

RWBRFC II vs Weymouth & Portland RFC

RWBRFC IV vs Cricklade RFC

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