Rugby Club Issue 55 | Page 29

pill harriers Pill Harriers P ill Harriers RFC is a fantastic example of a club achieving success in the modern game whilst retaining their traditional amateur ethos. Their Chairman Brian Cromwell took the time to tell us more about the good work that they have been doing lately. Involvement He told us, “I have been involved with the club since it was reformed in 1978 as a player, captain, committee man and now chairman. The club was reformed due the demise of Pill Labour Hall and Newport Hibernians and also included about a dozen players just finishing with Newport Youth side plus their coach Ray Evans who was the architect of the mode of running rugby we always try to produce.” Im e ag s u co rt e s Ma y of r k E v e rs o n Challenges “Obviously finance is always a big challenge but facilities during the wet winter months are a big problem, with us only have one pitch we have to travel all around the county to use all weather facilities which come with extra cost. Our aim is to try and get a 4G pitch in the Pill area. Pill is regarded as the second most deprived place in Wales. All the work and effort is rewarded when you see the players of all ages enjoying themselves at training and match day’s plus the friendships that are formed which last for a life time.” Amateur Ethos “Retaining our amateur statues is something we are very passionate about, we are well aware of what other clubs at our level throughout Wales are doing with regards to paying players and this has been the demise of quite a few. We are a non-profit making business that is run for the community and to help youngsters and adults get out and enjoy themselves and make friends.” Atmosphere “There is a very positive mood with new sections of the club starting up next season. We will be fielding U7s to U11s, 2 sides at U13, an U16s a youth side and 2 senior sides. We www.pitchero.com/clubs/pillharriersrfc- Twitter : @PillRFC www.sportip.biz 29