Combe youth in the frame
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We look forward to
John Aitkenhead President WPRFC
A welcome from the President
Avery warm welcome from Westcombe Park Rugby Football Club to the supporters, visitors, sponsors, and opponents today, and of course all the membership. I hope you all had a great summer and are enjoying this new season of rugby at ‘Combe.
1st Team
Looking back and reflecting on last season, we could not ask more of our 1st team players and coaching team. They all delivered a very high level of performance and enjoyment for the whole club membership who watched them play throughout the season to the point of keeping us in National League 2 for 24/25. It’s always a pleasure watching the team and the new players who have joined us this year. A big thank you for your support, you are all welcome at our club.
2nd Team
It was good to see the 2nd team (now known as the Tigers) performing very well throughout last season and some of the players making the move up to the 1st team. This progression is good news for the club and of course for them as players. I look forward to many more of our Tigers playing for the 1st team this season.
3rd Team
The achievement of gaining promoted to the Counties 5 Kent League was all down to a lot of hard work all season from the 3rd team coaches, manager, and of course the players. This new league will be a challenge. However, I know from talking to those involved that they are all up for it. So good luck, I look forward to watching and supporting the 3rds during this season.
Colts Academy
Welcome Back to the Colts Academy. This is one of the most pleasing developments at Westcombe Park as this section is the gateway to senior rugby and clearly demonstrates to all our membership the strength of the club. It will help show those who have played as minis and juniors, that we, as a club, want them all to eventually play in our senior teams and continue to enjoy rugby
at Combe throughout their lives, loving the game as we all do. I will definitely be supporting them at matches this season and I encourage other members to do the same.
Mini and Juniors
It is always a joy to come up to the club on Sunday morning to watch the club’s future learning rugby skills from our dedicated Mini and Junior coaches. It is also a great pleasure to see that we have the start of a dedicated Girls section. I am hoping it will develop into a senior ladies team over time which is long overdue at Combe. A big thank you to all our volunteers and coaches who give up their time for free to help grow our club, but especially to the mums and dads who bring their children to Goddington Dene. The Mini and Juniors section has a great management team who make sure all the children get the most out of playing rugby and the values it stands for. See you all on Sundays, enjoy the season.
Club Socials
There will be a number of club socials throughout this season, including comedy nights and quizzes, which are open to all, so please support them. All monies raised will be used to improve club facilities, so will benefit you all. Posters promoting these events will go up in the clubhouse and information will be circulated in the coming weeks.
…and finally
Please remember to show respect to our opponents and especially the match officials. They are there to enjoy the rugby as well as you. This will help to set us apart from other sports which is the backbone of what we all expect from each other and helps to demonstrate respect for others and the sport of rugby.
John
LEA Printers
49 Leesons Hill Orpington
Clarkson Wright & Jakes (CWJ) have been the main sponsors of Westcombe Park RFC for over 15 years and enjoy a very close business and social relationship with the whole club with several members of staff either playing or coaching at various levels over the years.
As a long-established law firm based just off Orpington High Street in Knoll Rise, CWJ’s aim is to make a positive impact on the local community and for us ‘Combe, being such a well-respected local club, are the perfect partner.
Through sponsorship CWJ contributes to the club’s development, helping maintain facilities, support youth groups, and promote rugby in the area. The partnership goes beyond financial support, reflecting the firm’s belief in the values that rugby embodies: integrity, respect, and teamwork. These principles align closely with CWJ’s own professional ethos, making the partnership a natural fit.
Our team of friendly, professional lawyers are experts in their fields and provide legal services to individuals such as helping people with their wills, inheritance tax planning, retirement planning, buying and selling houses and dealing with other family issues. On the business side, we buy and sell businesses, and deal with all manner of property and employment issues and general disputes.
By sponsoring ‘Combe, CWJ ensures that local residents and businesses have access to high-quality legal expertise when needed and provide legal advice to many of the club members and visitors and continue to receive recommendations from them.
When you next need legal advice give us a call on 01689 887887 or visit www.cwj.co.uk.
Contact: Sally Oakey
Email: sponsorship@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk Mobile: 07702 428162.
Westcombe Park Rugby Football Club Goddington Dene, Goddington Lane, Orpington, Kent BR6 9SX www.westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Front cover photo: David Barnes
John Vallely WPRFC Chair
OA welcome from the Chair
ur warmest ‘Combe welcome to all supporters and visitors to Goddington Dene for today’s National League 2 encounter.
This is Westcombe Park’s second season in National 2 after returning in 2023/24, when there was a steep learning curve to go through. The players and coaches learned quickly, and we enjoyed a number of great results as well as some narrow losses. It would be great if we can experience the same levels of excitement this coming season.
Another great aspect of our game is meeting up with old friends and this season gives us a welcome opportunity of renewing our acquaintance with Colchester and Havant. We also have the opportunity of making new friends and all at the club are looking forward to our matches with Oxford Harlequins. We will also be playing old rivals from Kent and around the rest of the region which adds spice to the matches.
The efforts in preparing the teams, keeping the grounds in good order and maintaining the clubhouse and bar are challenging to say the least. And every year these challenges seem to mount, whether through economic pressures or the increasing demands to make our sport safe and enjoyable.
Thanks to all our valued volunteers and staff but I will pick out Dave Marshall, JWT, Mark Ley, Tom Lewis, Kieran Walsh, and Clare Merron who spearhead these activities for special mention.
I know our President has written elsewhere in the magazine about team activities throughout the club, from the veterans and other senior sides to the youngest players who don the blue and white hoops. I strongly echo his sentiments and encourage as many club members
as possible to support all our teams across the club.
This season sees the re-emergence of a ‘Combe Colts side and I wish them all the best in their new adventure and look forward to players coming through to the senior sides. Another great new development at ‘Combe is the return of Girls’ Rugby with a number of taster sessions already held and a full launch during the new season.
We have decided to rebadge the 2nd XV as the Tigers and it is planned that they play in reversed blue and white hoops to establish a strong individual character. A warm welcome to all the teams they face in Kent League 2.
Our 3rd XV are also playing at Kent League level competing in League 5. This will be a step up for the players but will provide even more competitive rugby at Goddington Dene. Again a warm welcome to their opposition.
On a serious note, let’s not forget in the heat of competition to respect the match officials and all our fellow supporters, keeping up that great tradition of respect and camaraderie which is the foundation of our game. Match official abuse has been creeping into our game over recent seasons and the governing bodies are very clear that this will not be tolerated. Westcombe Park fully support this position and will act as needed to stamp this out.
Let’s hope we witness great games of rugby throughout the season, with both sides striving for the win.
All the best
John
Autumn is fast approaching, and we look towards the Christmas season with anticipation. We’re the perfect venue for your Christmas party, whether for work, family or friends, discuss your event with us and we’ll be more than happy to help. Our Christmas meals start 25th November through until 31st December
Our cask, craft and cider festival runs from 16th September till 6th November, so pick up one of our great deals throughout the festival
And whatever sport your support, we have everything covered from Football, Rugby, Golf and boxing. Don’t miss the Autumn Rugby Internationals from 2nd – 30th November, where you can cheer the boys on
So please join us, your always assured of a warm welcome.
Opening times Mon-Wed: 11.00 – 23.00 Thu – Sat: 11.00 – 00.00 Sun: 12.00 - 22.30
Food serving times Mon- Sat: 12.00 – 21.00 Sun: 12.00 – 18.00
Extra 1st (aka 2s) get new name and new look
This season there are a number of changes for the Westcombe Park Extra 1st. The team has been rebranded as the Tigers and is using the white and blue ‘Combe kit, a reverse of the traditional kit, as its primary jersey to help build the team’s identity.
There has also been a change of personnel with Ralph Cooke stepping down as match day coach. Andy Forrester has picked up the reins as the Tigers’ coach and brings a range of coaching experience from Vigo, Dartfordians and Sevenoaks.
On the management side, Dave Vallely has stepped down as player/manager of the team to focus on playing while his body still allows. To fill this gap, Randika Abeydeera has absorbed these additional responsibilities into his role as 3rd XV coach/manger which is helping to further develop the pathway for young players to make the step up.
The 23/24 season saw the 2s competing in Kent 2 (Level 8), after finishing in a respectable 8th position the previous year. The team’s target was to win promotion to Kent 1 and unfortunately this was missed by the narrowest of margins.
The 2s finished third overall behind a strong Sevenoaks 2nd XV and a Park House 1st XV who went undefeated at home. The Westcombe Park Extra 1sts did manage to defeat both these sides during the season.
Here are some quick stats on how the season played out. Played 23, won 17, lost 6. Points for 739, points against 347, difference 392, try bonus points 15, losing bonus points 5. These figures show what a
high scoring brand of rugby the 2s played and that the few games that were lost were done so by fine margins.
More than 70 players represented the team in the 23/24 season which shows the challenge we face each week with selection. Injuries and fluctuating availability mean each week is different, but it also provides opportunities for players looking to move up and make their mark. The Extra 1sts squad and coaching staff are grateful to all the players who took to the field for their commitment and energy they brought, always playing in the spirit of the game.
As always, there have been some departures, and they will be replaced by new faces at the club and players who will make the step up from the 3rd XV and other age groups.
In the league, we have seen Sevenoaks 2nd XV and Parkhouse 1st XV promoted to Kent 1 and the relegation of Old Dunstonians 1st XV but this means there will be new opposition to play this season.
Congratulations to Old Alleynians 2nd XV and Old Elthamians 1st XV on their promotions and welcome to Thanet Wanderers 1st XV from Kent 1. They will provide some new and interesting fixtures to look forward to.
Finally, a big congratulations to the 23/24 season’s Extra 1st XV honours cap recipients Max Hallett and Jack Wilkinson. Both have been an integral part of the squad over the last couple of seasons. Max, moved from scrum half to fly half and made the role his own. Jack showed his versatility, regularly moving between the backrow and centres.
Randika and Luke lead
The Thirds to promotion
Third Team News by JWT
What a great season the Thirds had. They gained promotion to Counties 5 Kent, having played 18 games, winning 14, and losing 4, with 566 points for and 257 points against.
Promotion was finally achieved after an exciting and nail-biting last game of the season, when the Thirds narrowly defeated Beckenham 24 - 22 to finish second in the league, just behind Old Alleynians who coincidentally it turned out were their opponents in the first game of this season.
To gain promotion was an extremely fine effort as on a number of occasions the Thirds had to relinquish players up to the extra first XV when players dropped out from teams above them through injury or illness.
Much of the success can be attributed to manager Randika Abeydeera and the leadership of the skipper Luke Collado, who, playing at number ten, was their top try and point scorer of the season. However, he is quick to point out that he puts the success down to the whole squad and not to any individuals. It would be wrong not to mention that they have also trained extremely hard
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during the season.
A special mention must also go to Tom Hummerson who was presented with a coveted Honours’ Cap from the President at the Annual Club Supper and to Elliott McNamara who won the Players’ Player Award. Congratulations go to those two players.
We wish ‘the Thirds’ all the best for this coming season as they will be playing some tough opposition.
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Minis and juniors make their mark
Arange of initiatives put in place during the 2023/24 season, designed to create one of the best Youth sections in the South of England at ‘Combe, is already paying dividends.
Rhys Spiers and Matthew Day were appointed coDirectors of Youth Rugby at the start of the 2023/24 season. Both Rhys and Matt represented ‘Combe in the 1990s and 2000s and now have children of their own coming through the Youth section.
Rhys is an Executive Principal and former Head of Rugby at Ravens Wood School (RWS). Matt and his family have a long affiliation with Westcombe Park over many years.
A new pre-age grade section has also been established in partnership with Munchkin Sports, which has created a reliable pipeline of players into the ‘Combe U6s. A new girls rugby section at U12 has also been created (see details on news pages) with a squad of 25 going into the 2024/25 campaign. Off the field, there is a newly formed Youth Management Committee (YMC).
The Youth section hosted its first End of Season Awards day during the summer, and the annual Mini Festival was a big success, raising a club record amount of money.
The 2024/25 season sees ‘Combe teams at every age group from U6 to U18 – including the new U12s girls team.
Regular Youth Head Coach and Team Manager meetings are now organised to improve communication and share good coaching practice. Plus, inter-club relations are being reinforced through senior
players attending youth training. Several youth players have been selected for elite player pathways.
Under 6s
During a fabulous first year of rugby, players in the under 6 age group were taught new skills and made new friends. There was a fantastic turnout throughout the season, with a good mix of both boys and girls showing up.
Austin G won the coveted ‘most improved’ player (with honourable mention of Freddie W who was a close second), Harry K and Ted took home the coaches and players player awards.
Under 7s
During their first season, Westcombe Park Under 7’s competed at multiple festivals where the team displayed some excellent running rugby. Numbers continued to grow throughout the year with a good mix of boys and girls making up the team.
The season finished with an all-conquering display at ‘Combe’s own festival when three teams were fielded. This was achieved with excellent assistance from parent volunteers and supporters.
Under 8s
Players moving up from the Under 7 age group will be able to continue to develop their skills with the coaches giving more
instruction on passing to players in space. They will be joined by several new members this season.
Under 9s
The ‘Combe Under 9s discarded their tags during the 23/24 season and entered into their first contact matches. The team gave a good account of themselves at festivals including Medway, Sidcup, Edenbridge, Sevenoaks and the ‘Combe festival at the end of the season.
The squad has grown steadily with 20 players on the age group’s first ever tour to Bournemouth, part funded by an excellent winetasting evening at ‘Combe. Players have continued to develop, friendships are getting stronger, and the team continues to bond.
Special mention goes to Reis, Alfie and Fox as recipients of the Player’s player, Coaches’ player and Most-improved player at the end of season awards day.
Under 10s
The ‘Combe U10s have gone from strength to strength with the squad trebling in size during recent seasons. Now nearly 50 boys and girls are involved in this age, and performances on the field have been
great to watch, with an expansive style of running rugby promoted by the coaching team.
The squad, which now consists of separate boys and girls groups, has participated in a range of festivals where players had the opportunity to showcase their talents.
A dedicated and enthusiastic parent group has provided much appreciated support and encouragement from the touchline and behind the scenes. The squad finished the season with a tour to the New Forest, where players competed in the prestigious Bournemouth Festival.
Head Coach Dave Grace said: “The squad is in very good shape heading into the Under 11s season and we can’t wait to build further on the positive momentum we have.”
Under 12s
This season saw the Combe U12s complete their first competitive season of rugby, moving up from the Minis to Junior Kent Waterfall Leagues. After an initial bumpy start to the season, the boys grew as a team and had a very strong finish to the season, winning the second stage of their group.
As well as a tour to Cirencester, there was also plenty of fun off the pitch, with visits to ninja warriors in Crawley, and to Twickenham to watch Harlequins play Northampton Saints.
Special mentions go to Lewis Huggins who won Coaches player, Randy Barnes who won Parents Player, Charlie Assender who won Players player, and Ben Drury who won most improved player of the season.
The coaching team are very much looking forward to seeing the boys build on their achievements this season and are extremely grateful to the parents for their support.
* Turn to pages 30 & 31 for special picture spread of Mini and Junior award winners
If you want to financially help and support Senior Rugby at ‘Combe and enjoy a social Curry every other month, then join us. It is only 12 monthly standing orders of £25 for an individual or £35 for a couple.
We meet at the Bombay Indian Restaurant in Green Street Green every other month (August, October, December, February, April & June).
If there is an unforeseen expense that was not budgeted for, the Chairman of Rugby Playing can ask the club for a contribution. This request is then put to members and goes to a majority decision.
Get involved, enjoy a curry and help support ‘Combe rugby. Phone Paul 07836 570578 if you are interested in joining.
Standing proud for 20 years
by Paul Cavalli
When supporters and visitors come to Combe, they may look at our stand and think it is just another facility provided by the club without giving it too much thought.
However, there is a great story here which, unless you were around in the early 2000’s, you will have missed.
Bertie Mock was one of the great Combe stalwarts and a lifelong member of the club. Bertie did not rise through the ranks and play 1st XV rugby, but supported Combe at every home and away match, and was always there to give advice to the coaches after the match had finished, and to buy beer for all the team.
He did not drive, so travelled to all games in a taxi, and you could not have failed to hear Bertie and his friend Bob Brett shouting ‘Tiger Combe’ from the touchline.
Sadly, Bertie died in 2003 aged 69, but left a legacy of £50,000 in his will for the club to build a stand, in his name, so supporters could be seated and kept dry.
John Bellinger, the club’s Chairman at the time, instigated the planning application and this was granted in 2005. He then persuaded Alan Gaunt and myself to get it built!
Tenders were obtained and we were some £40,000 short of the amounts quoted. Fortunately, another club member, Joe Stevenson, pledged a further £20,000, and a scheme was set up to sell seats in the new stand to club members for £200 to raise the shortfall.
Construction was started in the 2004/05 season, which coincided with a requirement for all National League clubs to have a spectator stand. We were one of only two sides in Southeast London and the whole of Kent to meet this criteria.
Work started with the removal of a grass bank to make room for the stand, and the bank was repositioned further down the pitch where it still is today, and later rechristened the ‘Gumbo Mound’.
New footpaths from the clubhouse were laid, and the stand was officially opened on the 8th September 2005 by Sheila, Bertie’s partner, and other distinguished guests.
‘The Bertie Mock Stand’ sign was donated free of charge by Signs Plus of Biggin Hill and is still in place today
After Bertie passed away, it was requested by his friends and
family that his ashes be scattered in front of the stand. This request was granted by the committee and Bob Webster was put in charge of the scattering.
However, the day was very windy, Bob got covered in the ashes, then saluted and marched off the pitch to rapturous applause and laughter from those in attendance as neither of them ever served in the armed forces.
The stand has been endangered by fire, vandalism, and gales, but it is still there and remains a tribute to Bertie and a place to watch Combe on a Saturday afternoon.
It is said that you can still hear ‘Tiger Combe’ whistling through the stand on a windy day!
Jackson helps with the facelift
The back of the stand has recently been renovated and now has the Tiger Combe logo added to it by another generous supporter of the club. Jackson, a Suffolk-based civil engineering company, was established in 1952 and celebrated its 70th birthday two years ago.
Today, it operates out of seven locations across England, including offices in Tonbridge and Farnborough. The company undertakes civil engineering projects ranging from £500,000 to £50m in value, and turnover last year was £120m.
It works for major clients such as the Environment Agency, National Highways, Canal & River Trust, and Anglian Water as well as many local authorities and private clients throughout the country. Its association with National Highways sees Jackson act as part of a group of companies responsible for maintaining and improving the M25 road network.
Jackson Contracts Director, and former WPRFC player, Rupert Chitty said: “Jackson looks to partner with local communities near to where we are working as part of our social value commitment. Rugby, and sport in general, brings people together and teaches youngsters so many good values. We will stay in touch with Westcombe Rugby Club and hope to link up for initiatives in the future.”
Girls rugby returns
An increasing number of players in the U9 to U11 age group enabled Westcombe Park to field girls teams at both the Hove and Westcombe Park festivals. The ‘Combe girls performed well against some more established teams and have enjoyed a number of combined training sessions during the second half of last season.
Westcombe Park also participated in the RFU’s ‘Girls Love Rugby’ campaign during June, receiving recognition as one of the top clubs in the country for increasing the number of registered girl players.
The club is looking forward to building on this success with a Junior Girls U12 team. There are plans to increase the number of girl Mini players.
‘Combe players in cup final win
Westcombe Park RFC players were among those who helped Kent to victory in the Bill Beaumont County Championship.
Rafael Dutta, Fergus Chawner, Daniel Shergold and travelling reserve Kenny Henry played in the first encounter on 18 May away to Hampshire and helped Kent to a close 32-30 win. In the next game at home on 25 May, Kent took on Cornwall at Charlton Park’s ground. Elliott Roofe, Fergus Chawner, Daniel Shergold and Ben Fryatt, plus Henry as travelling reserve again, represented ‘Combe in another tight game with Kent coming out 34-33 victors.
A walkover in the game scheduled for 2 June against neighbours Surrey handed Kent a place in the final at Twickenham for the second year running.
The opponents were Yorkshire, and the Kent team included
Academy back in action
The Westcombe Park Academy side is making a comeback in the 24/25 Season. It will be a non-selective Colts side, with the club striving to provide an inclusive pathway experience for U17 and U18 players transitioning from junior to senior rugby. Head Coach of the Academy, Jack Forrest, will work closely with 1st Team Head Coach, Dave Marshall, to integrate some of the Academy players into senior training sessions enabling them to gain valuable National League Rugby experience.
‘Combe players Fergus Chawner, Daniel Shergold, Ben Fryatt, captain Rafael Dutta, plus travelling reserves Matt Harrison, Elliott Roofe and Henry Kenny.
Kent trailed 15-9 at half-time but a red card shown to Yorkshire fly-half Eddie Crossland allowed Kent back in the game. They sneaked into a 26-25 lead which was extended when Ben Fryatt set Gary Jones on his way for his second try.
Two yellow cards against Kent allowed Yorkshire to reduce the deficit and at the 76-minute mark Kent had a slim 32-30 lead.
In the dying minutes a penalty against Kent within kicking distance was awarded to Yorkshire. As supporters and the team held thier breath, the ball passed wide of the posts to give victory to Kent for the second time in a row.
The coaching team, which included ‘Combe’s David Marshall, also deserve credit.
Get your 200 club tickets now!
This year’s proceeds will go towards new furniture for the Roughton Room
A one-off payment of £20 per number gains you entry to all six monthly draws which will take place on 23 November; 21 December 2024; 18 January; 8 February’ 1 March; 5 April 2025. There will be Cash Prizes of at least £100, £50 and £25 per draw. Payment by Cash or BACs (WPRFC Fund Raising, A/C No 63684652, Sort 20-18-93)
Contact Frank or Krys Meakin in the Clubhouse to obtain a number or email to: meakin.frank4@gmail.com
Support for foodbank
Westcombe Park RFC has teamed up with Bromley Borough Foodbank to provide a non-perishable food collection from September - December. It will provide food for families and individuals in the community who are experiencing financial hardship. Club members will be encouraged to donate items on the foodbank’s most wanted list and leave them at the Westcombe Park RFC collection point.
To find out what items the foodbank is currently in urgent need of, or to find out how else you can support Bromley Borough Foodbank visit their website at bromleyborough.foodbank.org.uk.
Polhill helps club to grow
Polhill Garden Centre has proudly supported Westcombe Park as a main sponsor for more than a decade and recently reaffirmed its commitment by becoming the club’s Grassroots sponsor.
As part of this collaboration, Polhill Garden Centre will be the headline sponsor for the 49th Mini Rugby Festival, taking place on 27 April, 2025.
In addition, Polhill will be enhancing the verges in front of the clubhouse entrance with new hedging. Club members are encouraged to show their support in return by visiting Polhill Garden Centre for their gardening, home, and festive holiday needs.
The Novell family, which owns Polhill Garden Centre, has enjoyed a long-standing partnership with Westcombe Park RFC. Their son, Josh, honed his skills at the club and his talent saw him progress through the ranks, to eventually play for the 1st XV team. He has since gone on to play professionally.
Remembering members who have passed away this year
Steve Strong was a versatile player and an active member of the Westcombe Park chapter of the Hash House Harriers.
Len Shepard, during his playing days, was an elusive scrum half. After retiring, he ran the Bo Peep in Chelsfield with his wife Judy where many of the club members enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and excellent food.
Peter Hudson OBE was always ready to turn out for the club at any time and for any team. He was President of the club from 1998 to 2000, and was also a very respected and admired school master.
James Henderson, who was very briefly a member of ‘Combe, was killed in Gaza earlier this year while on voluntary duty.
Bob Carter, although not a playing member, was a keen and loyal supporter of the club and a very generous sponsor, donating many prize draw items over the years.
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To discuss how Arborate can help you please contact: David Carter on Tel: 07836 658 007 Email: david.carter@arborate.com
Changes in personnel will help fine tune senior rugby squad
Report by Mark Ley
Season 2023/24 finished in spectacular style with a resounding victory by the 1st XV over Kent rivals Tonbridge Juddians. The outstanding display mirrored the season where we more than held our own in our first season back in the National Leagues, finishing a credible eighth, amassing an impressive haul of 69 points in the process.
Most pleasing was the huge 26 bonus points earned which made a significant impact on our final league position.
The Extra 1st XV had an equally impressive campaign, winning 16 of their 22 fixtures, but with a third-place finish, narrowly missed out on promotion to level 7.
We are certainly looking for more of the same during this season with perhaps slightly more focus on defence in order to turn some of those very narrow losses into victories with the aim of improving our league position on last time out.
After consultation with the club, we have rebranded the Extra 1st XV who will now be called the Tigers and will embody all that our own club’s core values stand for - Teamwork, Integrity, Growth, Enjoyment, Respect.
To bring everyone up to speed with the new regime, we have made some personnel changes. Due to work and personal commitments, Darren Molloy and Ralph Cooke have stepped away from coaching. We would like to thank them for their support over the last few seasons which has enabled us to be in a good position for 24/25.
David Vallely has returned to play rugby and so will no longer manage the Extra 1st XV but will undoubtedly return to the management fold once he’s scratched that particular itch!
Incoming we have Andy Forrester who was the head coach at Vigo last season. Andy’s primary role will be to assist the head coach on training nights and take control of the Tigers on match days.
A familiar face is Harry Hudson who is performing a player coach role looking after the forwards. Matt Pinnick, affectionally known as ‘Squeeky’, who some may remember from Canterbury RFC, joins us as scrum coach.
Andy Pratt has a more active role within the coaching set up and we’ll certainly benefit from his knowledge and experience. David Marshall remains as head coach and is aiming to build on his club and county successes.
The effervescent JWT maintains his role as 1st XV match day manager, 4th official, and bloody good bloke. Randika Abeydeera is handling the management of the 2’s, 3’s and 4’s.
Tara Anson has departed with our very best wishes and the lead physio position is now filled by the excellent Tom Lewis.
Mike Melford has joined as Strength and Conditioning coach and will keep players fit as well as assisting with rehabilitation.
I’m delighted to report that only one regular 1st XV player from last season has moved on. Henry Kenny has signed with Canterbury following a family relocation. Every other player stayed on the Combe books for the 24/25 season.
Joining the Westcombe Park family are: Cai Devine - back row (Ampthill & District); Antonio Kiri Kiri - Back row - (Maidenhead); Ollie Burkett - Full back (Old Colfeians); KK Orelaja - Centre (Returning from Australia); Tom Griffiths - Centre (Returning from working overseas); Tom Webster - Wing (Tunbridge Wells); Thomas Smith - Wing (Lymnn); Ben Richards - Prop (Newcastle University); Frank Kitchen - Hooker (Saracens Academy); Tom Cahill - Scrum half (Westcombe Park Youth Section).
The senior section is growing and as such the burden to manage this growth falls on the shoulders of a handful of volunteers, there are always plenty of jobs that need doing around the senior squad and seemingly less volunteers to perform vital tasks.
Current vacancies: Tigers match day manager; Tigers medical support (Physio or experience first aider); Senior section Administration assistant.
If you would like to discuss moving into a role within the Senior section or would like further information on the current vacancies, please feel free to contact me on 07734 616425 or grab me on a training night or match day as we’d be delighted for any additional help.
Here’s hoping for another hugely successful season for the entire club - Tiger Combe!
1ST XV SQUAD 24/25 FORWARDS
1ST XV SQUAD 24/25 BACKS
WPRFC Protocols
This is a reminder about behaviours we expect at Westcombe Park
• Respect match officials, visiting teams, bar staff and each other. Make visiting fans feel welcome
• Look after the grounds and clubhouse
• Make sure that dogs are kept on a leash and that all dog mess is cleaned up. No dogs in the Roughton Room
• Use rubbish bins
• Return glasses to the bar – this will speed up service. Also no glasses pitch-side
• Do not park in front of the emergency gates
• Note that there is a defibrillator in the clubhouse, but this is kept pitch-side during 1st XV matches
A roaring charity success The Matt Hampson Foundation
In June, two club members, Paul ‘Cav’ Cavalli (ex-President) and John ‘Hughesy’ Hughes (ex-player) walked 100 miles along the Grand Union Canal, which links London and Birmingham, to raise awareness and much needed funds for the Matt Hampson Foundation and the expansion of its Get Busy Living Centre.
Many ‘Combe members stepped up to sponsor the duo who managed to raise a total of £6,600. This was a large amount of money and represented over 10% of the total raised. We have received thanks from The Foundation with Cav and Hughesy so very grateful for all the ‘Combe support.
They were part of a group of 50 people, with ages ranging from 20 – 80 years old, who took on the ‘Walk for Matt’ challenge. They walked the equivalent distance of four marathons in five days, sleeping on narrow boats at night.
The former Leicester, England, and British Lions player Dean Richards was joined by several other Leicester Tigers legends who completed the walk. The relevance of ‘Tiger’ resonated with Deano as Cav and Hughesy cornered him for a chat about our great club and the values of TIGER - Teamwork, Integrity, Growth, Enjoyment, Respect - at ‘Combe.
The Get Busy Living Centre is the brainchild of founder and former England and Leicester Tigers player Matt Hampson OBE, who experienced a life-changing injury in 2005, which left him paralysed from the neck down, aged just 20.
By becoming part of the community Matt has created, beneficiaries of the Foundation are able to draw on the experience and knowledge of people who have been on the same journey.
They develop tools and skills needed to start rebuilding their lives. The centre is a place where beneficiaries can feel normal again and be part of an active social scene as they retrain themselves to focus on what they can do – not what they can’t.
Beneficiaries progress to the point where they become the ones providing the support to others. This is a huge part of their rehabilitation and being able to help others provides a real sense of purpose and identity.
If you would like to know more about the great physical and mental rehabilitation work provided by Matt and his team, please contact Cav and Hughesy.
‘The centre is a place where beneficiaries can feel normal again and be part of an active social scene as they retrain themselves to focus on what they can do – not what they can’t.’
They also recommend reading Matt’s autobiography, ‘Engage –The Fall and Rise of Matt Hampson’.
For more information on The Matt Hampson Foundation and the Get Busy Living Centre go to: matthampsonfoundation.org
Hughesy and Cav with Dean Richards (centre) on the Walk For Matt.
City event fund raiser
Sponsored by the 1904 Bombay Curry Club
Some 120 club members, sponsors, past and current players, and their guests, attended the 8th City Event at the Union Jack Club in Waterloo in May where they were entertained by our comedian and auctioneer Ian Irving ably supported by JWT.
An engraved glass tankard was presented to Ken Mackenzie by The Curry Club for his ‘on-line match day commentaries during the entire season both home and away.
The auction was a great success with current 1stXV players, led by Matt Harrison, trying to outbid everyone in the room but to no avail with items such as a hot air balloon ride, fast car driving experiences, golf days, fine wines, and a donated England signed rugby shirt all raising a fantastic amount of money for ‘Combe rugby.
The auction bids also, once again, generated a significant amount of money and a big thanks goes to everyone who attended the event, and to those who donated their time and auction items as without all this the find raiser would not be such a success. Special thanks to Kieran, Barry, Beate, Jacky, and JWT
Look out for our next event in 2025
Top right picture: 1st XV player Matt Harrison.
Middle picture: Ken Mackenzie was presented with an engraved glass tankard by The Curry Club for his on-line commentaries.
Bottom left and right pictures: More than 100 guests attended the 8th City Event at the Union Jack Club.
Summer Ball 2024
It’s a family affair…
The Mellish name has been intertwined with the history of Westcombe Park RFC for more than 100 years. Barry Mellish shares more details about this enduring legacy
It was about a 100 years ago that the Mellish family first became involved with ‘Combe. Nobody quite knows when three brothers Tom, John and Bill Mellish first joined and started playing for the club.
As there is a first team photo 1925/26 with John Mellish in it, the probability is that he must have joined a season or two beforehand to learn the game if nothing else. Rugby would not have been played at any school that the sons of a dockworker would have gone to. In all probability they joined the club in 1924/25 or earlier. Their slightly younger cousin, Richard James Mellish, aka Dick Mellish, my dad (born 1907), joined a couple of years later and I have a photo of dad in the 1930/31 ‘A’ XV photo.
Tom Mellish captained the club in the 1929/30 season and his brother Bill captained the ‘A’ XV for at least one season – date unknown. Tom, John and Bill appear to have left the club in the early 30s.
Tom became a referee and stayed involved with the game for a number of years. John Mellish, a policeman, was also a keen boxer and was the European Police Welter Weight Champion for 1931. My dad also boxed and was the Sussex Scout light-weight boxing champion in 1922. Whether dad and John ever used their boxing prowess on the rugger field is not known! I have a photo of L Mellish and J Mellish playing for the B XV in 1946/47 season.
Dad stayed on playing for ‘Combe and was club captain in 1936/37 and again in 1946/47. He ‘officially’ stopped playing rugby at the end of the ‘46/47 season. I was due in the October and because of my mum’s badly damaged legs (she was caught in an air-raid in 1940) they were expecting problems.
I do recall that dad would always take his kit along and if one of the lower teams was short of a player, he would join in for them. He always said ‘don’t tell your mother’, but she always knew. Apart from the dirty kit dad would be stiff and sore on Sunday morning, a feeling that I got to know well over the years.
Dad became involved with the admin side of the game and was Team Secretary for a number of years. These were the days when you had to post a card to each member of every team telling them which team they were in and where they had to be the following Saturday. Dad was Hon. Treasurer from 1964/68 and in those same years Dick also ran touch for the 1st XV and was President from 1966/68.
His youngest brother John, born 1921, played for ‘Combe after the war. He was a No 8 and played for the 1st XV for a number of seasons. John stopped playing relatively young and became a referee. John then became heavily involved with training and vetting of referees. He carried on with this when he left the UK and took his family and settled in Richmond, Virginia, USA.
I recall being at Heathrow in the early 90s waiting to catch a flight to San Francisco. In the crowd milling about the terminal, I spotted a number of people wearing track suits with the words ‘California Rugby Referees on Tour’. I spoke to one of them and mentioned that my
uncle was a referee in the States, but that he lived on the East Coast. He asked me his name and I said John Mellish, he then yelled ‘Guys we have John Mellish’s nephew on the flight with us’. It appeared John was well known in referring circles in the States and had worked tirelessly in helping set-up the organisational structure. He was rewarded with a Lifetime Achievement Award for Services to Rugby in America.
Dad was the eldest of five brothers and both of his younger brothers, John and Les, played for the club. His other two brothers, George and Gordan were involved in helping run the club, serving behind the bar etc.
The ladies were also involved, mum, Grace (Gordon’s wife) and Jean (John’s wife) helping prepare the sandwiches and cups of tea for the players after the game.
The family were also awarded honour caps as: 1926/27 Tom Mellish, 1933/34 Dick Mellish, 1950/51 John Mellish. It is also interesting to note that Gordon’s son ‘young Gordon’ played for the club in the late 50s and early 60s. I started playing for the Colts in about 1962/3.
I went off to college in 1966 and later moved to Canterbury and played rugby there. Moving to Bromley in 1977 I re-joined ‘Combe and played for the ‘A’ XV alongside Robin Taylor in the front-row. I then started coaching mini-rugby when my sons started playing.
My middle-son Andrew now graces the field for ‘Combe (starting playing for the club aged 45). My two grand-children Henry and Georgia, although both keen on rugby, live in the West Midlands and play mini-rugby there.
So, it looks as if the tradition of the Mellish Family playing for ‘Combe may be drawing to a close – but who knows what the future may bring.
13 January vs Wimbledon
Kyan Braithwaite presented by
16 March vs Old Albanians
Sam Fombo presented by U17’s dads 2008 - 2009
27 April vs Tonbridge Juddians
Joshua Daniel Smith presented by BOB.
Other awards presented by Bombay Curry Club
27 January vs Dorking
Todd Bailey being presented by The 1904 Club members
Nick Cook received a bottle of fizz for being outstanding captain of the season 2023/2024. Presented by Jacky Cavalli
Paul Woodhouse
17 February vs North Walsham
24 February vs Canterbury
Matt Harrison received a bottle of fizz for playing every game last season. Presented by his sponsor Jacky Cavalli
6 April vs Henley
Taine Wagstaff presented with
for playing every game last season
Toby Wallace being presented by The 1904 Club members
Elliot Roofe being presented by Ben Madden (Clarkson Wright & Jakes)
Elliot Roofe being presented by Kieran and Penny Walsh
Fizz
Parents and player waiting in anticipation for the award announcements.
Caught on camera
All of the age groups in the ‘Combe Youth section gathered together for the inaugural awards day at the club on Saturday 22 June. Together with a large crowd of family and friends, they generated a great atmosphere which was aided by the kind weather. Many thanks to 1st XV players Raffa Dutta and Dan Shergold who handed out the awards, ably supported by Ben Fryatt.
Above: U6’s award winners Harry, Tedd, and Austin.
Below left: Under 7 awards winners - Isla, Jaxon, and Kaydon.
Below right: Under 8 winners Huey, Max, and Felix.
Top left: Under 9 winners Reis, Alfie, and Fox (only two in photo).
2nd left: Under 10 winners Jack, David, and Levi-James.
3rd left: Under 11 winners Bobby, Jonty, and Fred
Bottom left: Under 12 Girls winners Ali, Molly, and Nieve.
Top right: Under 12 winners Ben, Lewis & Randy. 2nd from top right: Under 13 winners Nathaniel, Bobby, and Oliver.
3rd right: Under 14 winners Archie, Patrick and Ellis.
Bottom right: U15 winners Jonah, Douglas, and Charlie.
KEY DATES & EVENTS
Sat 07 September
‘Combe Supporters Lunch for home match versus Bury St Edmunds. To book tickets email CombeLunches@ westcombeparkrugby.co.uk or contact Kieran on 07860 942797
Sun 08 September
Senior player coaching sessions with our Youth teams
Sun 08 September (12:15-12:30pm) Jack Petchey Awards ceremony in the Main Hall hosted by our Club Chairman and Club President. The 6 most recent winners will be formally presented with their medals/certificates
Sat 21 September
‘Combe Supporters Lunch for home match versus Henley. To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
Mon 23 September
Deadline to apply for Guinness Six Nations tickets through the club. Visit for further information: www.westcombeparkrugby.co.uk/ news
Sat 05 October
‘Combe Supporters lunch or home match vs Oxford Harlequins. To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
Sat 19 October
‘Combe Supporters lunch for home match vs Dorking. To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
Sat 09 November
‘Combe Supporters lunch for home match vs Colchester. To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
Fri 15 November
Vice President’s Dinner, 7pm arrival for 8pm dinner. Please contact Vern Williment to book on 07813 254 788
Sat 23 November
‘Combe Supporters lunch for home match vs Sevenoaks. To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
Sat 14 December
‘Combe Supporters lunch for home match vs Worthing. To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
Sat 21 December
‘Combe Supporters Xmas lunch for home match vs Guernsey. Book early to avoid disappointment. To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
Sat 18 January
‘Combe Supporters lunch for home match vs Havant.
To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
Sat 08 February
‘Combe Supporters lunch for home match vs Canterbury. To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
Sat 01 March
‘Combe Supporters lunch for home match vs Tonbridge Juddians. To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
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Sat 15 March
‘Combe Supporters lunch for home match vs Barnes. To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
Sat 05 April
‘Combe Supporters Curry lunch for home match vs Old Albanian. Book early to avoid disappointment. To book tickets contact Kieran Walsh
Early May Club Supper (date TBC) City lunch (date TBC)
June 2025 Awards & Family Day (date TBC)
Date TBC WPRFC Golf Day
Westcombe Park Rugby Football Club Vice Presidents
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Mrs Valerie Williment
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WPRFC Who’s Who & Club Contacts
Management Committee
John Aitkenhead, President president@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk T: 07752 752734
John Vallely, Chairman chairman@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Paul Woodhouse, Acting Treasurer treasurer@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Phillip Cahill, Club Secretary secretary@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Phill Tagg, Buildings & Maintenance Manager maintenance@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Kieran Walsh, Pre-Match Manager combelunches@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk T: 07860 942797
Sally Oakey, Business Development Manager businessmanager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk T: 07702 428162
Phil Cramp, Chairman of Rugby Playing rugbychairman@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Mark Ley, General Manager generalmanager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk T: 07734 616425
Operations
Phill Tagg, Buildings & Maintenance Manager maintenance@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Stacey Revell, Minis/Juniors membership Secretary youthmembership@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Kieran Walsh, Membership, membership@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Graham Seppings, IT Comms, webmaster webmaster@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Clare Merron, Bar and house manager housemanager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Kerry Elone, Catering manager, catering@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Kieran Walsh, Pre-match lunches, match entry combelunches@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Paul Cavalli, Player and match sponsorship playersponsorship@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Frank Meakin, 200 Club 200club@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Senior Squad Contacts
Phil Cramp, Chairman of Rugby Playing rugbychairman@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Mark Ley, General Manager manager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk T: 07734 616425
David Marshall, Head Coach headcoach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk T: 07532 490999
Matt Pinnick, Scrum coach
Harry Hudson, Forwards coach
Andy Pratt, Coach
Mike Melford, Strength & Conditioning coach
Andy Forrester, Tigers coach
John Ward Turner, Match day manager matchdaymanager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Randika Abeydeera, Tigers Manager tigersmanager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Randika Abeydeera, 3rd team Manager 3rdteammanager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Tom Lewis, Lead physio physio@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Dusan Preocanin, Referee liaison
Gareth Desborough, Referee liaison
Roy Maybank, Match day analysis
Jason Smith, Videographer & analysis
Youth Management
Rhys Spiers, Co-Director of Youth Rugby youthdirector@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk T: 07881 924093
Matt Day, Co-Director of Youth Rugby youthdirector@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk T: 07702 860569
Doug Knock, Head of Mini Rugby headofminirugby@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Greg Pring, Youth Logistics & Compliance youthlogistics@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Phil Cramp, Club Coaches Co-ordinator coachcoordinator@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Shane Reid, Youth Player & Coaching Development Lead coachdevelopment@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Dave Grace, Youth Player & Coaching Development coachdevelopment@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Stacey Revell, Youth fixtures secretary youthfixtures@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Claire Drury, Youth festivals & tours youthfestivals@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Shane Pender, Academy manager academymanager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Jack Forrest, Academy Head coach academycoach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Candice Morgan, U16 manager u16manager@westcombeparkruby.co.uk
Shane Reid, U16 head coach u16coach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Alex Belcher, U15 manager u15manager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Neil Belcher, U15 head coach u15coach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Miles Roper, U14 manager u14manager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Kieran Moloney, U14 manager u14manager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Nick Scott, U14 head coach u14coach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Ben Assender, U13 manager u13manager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Scott Huggins, U13 head coach u13coach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Doug Knock, U12 girls manager U12girlsmanager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Dave Grace, U12 girls head coach U12girlscoach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Paul Marshall, U12 manager u12manager@westcombeparkrugby.co,uk
Matt Day, U12 head coach u12coach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
James Potter, U12 head coach u12coach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Zane Joubert, U11 manager u11manager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Dave Grace, U11 head coach u11coach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Doug Knock, U10 manager u10manager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Chris Fuller, U10 head coach u10coach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Rebecca Wilson, U9 manager u9manager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Rob Warburton, U9 head coach u9coach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Chloe Marks, U8 manager u8manager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Josh Maybank, U8 head coach u8coach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Kelly Moody & Melanie Helm, U7 managers u7manager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Nic Avery, U7 head coach u7coach@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
Doug Knock, U6 manager u6manager@westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
U6 head coach u6coach@ westcombeparkrugby.co.uk
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