Berkhamsted Rugby Club have made a promising start to life on and off the field in their inaugural season.
Having formed last year, 43 different players have already pulled on the red and blue jersey of the fledgling club.
This has been whittled down to a squad of around 24 players, consisting of those who haven’t played before, players who are returning to the game, and veterans who are not yet ready to hang up their boots.
This season, Berkhamsted have played 12 league games – winning seven and losing five – as well as forming a good relationship with Chesham RFC who they have played twice in friendly matches.
They currently sit in fourth place in the table, with six games in hand, and leading point scorer Ben Vause has amassed 51 points so far from tries and conversions.
Club chairman Gerry Vermeulen said: “The season so far has been amazing. It’s been hard work, but worth every bit of it – we’ve had a great response from everyone involved, so it’s onwards and upwards from here.”
February will see Berkhamsted play three home games, all of which kick-off at 2.15pm, and they will take on Dacorum rivals Tring in a mouthwatering cup clash.
First team captain Tom Dalton has had a fine campaign, and he said: “It was an honour to be picked as captain in Berkhamsted’s first season. The lads are bonding and playing well together – it’s a great atmosphere at game time and socially.”
As a result of this season’s success, the club is hoping to start a second team, consisting of occasional, veteran and new players to compete in friendly matches, before entering the league the following season.
Tight head prop Ieuan Griffiths said: “ I joined the club about two months into the season; I was made to feel very welcome and got stuck in. There’s a good feeling about being part of Berkhamsted RUFC, and I can’t wait for every game”
The club is also currently looking for new sponsor for the first team for next season, as well as maintaining the invaluable support received from the Berkhamsted Sports Ground Charitable Association.
Training takes place on Wednesday evenings from 6.45pm to 8.15pm and anyone who wants to get involved with the club can find out more at www.berkhamstedrufc.co.uk
Alternatively, email berkhamstedrufc@gmail.com or call director of rugby Tom Hansard on 07761 082506.