28.04.2023
The REAL West Country Derby
Bristol v Bath
UBWRFC V Bath Ladies 1730 Referee: Eleanor Clarke Assistants: Darren Young & James Davies
UBRFC v University of Bath 1915 Referee: Enyioma Anomelechi Assistants: Rob Groves & Fraser Gray The bar will be closed during the men's second half. Today's games are being recorded - if you wish not to be in any video please inform a volunteer. There will be a zero tolerance to any form of anti social behaviour. The seating area is reserved for VIP guests and parents.
Words from the Clubs..... Chlöe Fletcher Club Captain * University of Bristol Women’s rugby team is one of the UK’s largest University Women's Rugby Clubs, with around 100 members and 3 teams that compete in British University and College Leagues. UBWRFC is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all players, regardless of their skill level or experience. The club aims to promote the values of rugby, including teamwork, respect and sportsmanship. The club has 3 teams that compete at different levels. The first team is the most competitive, playing in the Women’s premier south league. The second team, in the Women’s Western Tier 2, is focussed on player development and helping players improve their skills and move up to the first team. The third team is designed for newer players or those who are interested in playing for fitness, but nonetheless competing in the Women’s Western Tier 3. This years campaign was very successful for all 3 teams, all finishing 4th in their respective leagues. The Club is proud of its achievements so far, and is very grateful for the support of its sponsors, coaches and committee, who have relentlessly helped to build a strong and successful programme. Going forwards UBWRFC’s ambition is to continue to grow and develop as a club, both on and off the field. The club hopes to attract more players and supporters and continue to build a strong rugby community. Steve Gazzard (Head Coach) commented “we faced a tough selection process ahead of the Derby Day game. The first and second team squad have been training hard throughout the season and all of the players have shown a high level of commitment and dedication meaning many more were in contention than we could pick. We look forward to the challenge that playing Bath will bring.”
Words from the Clubs.....
We are delighted that we could get today's game over the line and want to thank Aaron James and everyone at Bath University for making it happen. A huge thank you also to Emma and the team at Shaftesbury Park for hosting the first ever "real Derby" fixture. The team predominantly consists of final-year students and this is an excellent opportunity for us to thank those who are leaving us this year. You have all made the club very proud during your time in a UBRFC shirt. Best of luck with your futures, please don't be a stranger! Our aim is that this fixture becomes a regular end of season game in both universities' calendars and for that to happen everyone needs to play their part to ensure that at all times we are following the RFU core values. I wish everyone a wonderful evening and thank you for your support. Olly Slym (Club Manager - UBRFC)
Words from the Clubs..... As our university rugby careers come to an end, I reflect with partiality on the memories we have made along the way. This season has certainly been unforgettable, with some incredible highs and a few lows, but through it all, we've had a cracking time. A special shoutout should go to AJ for his unwavering commitment to the culture of the club. It's been an honour to lead this team under his guidance, and to see how far we've come since first arriving as pubescent freshers. As it's apparently derby day, some have suggested it would be more logical for us to play Bath Spa, but I guess anything for an easier fixture! Anyway, as we approach our final match, let's raise a pint to all the good blokes and some not so good blokes (Simpooooo) of UBRFC, but more importantly, to the lifelong bonds of brotherhood that will continue long after our university days are over. Tom Williams (Club Captain Bath Uni)