Stourbridge consequently we ’ re predominantly a community club however we also have our senior side which is semi pro and comprises players from a wider range of catchment . We have found that ever since the professional era began the movement of players is more likely and in fact is essential if we are to remain competitive .”
Girls Rugby
Our girls ’ team is growing rapidly although we went through a phase about five years ago when the girls and women rugby disappeared and we are just beginning to field enough girls to take part in pitch up and play events . The reasons for the roller coaster approach are not obvious but we hope to continue building the girls team and hope that they will soon have the numbers to start playing regular fixtures .”
Challenges / Ambitions
“ We have to recognise that clubs are dependent on sound financial management and are in many ways in need of operating procedures in the same way as any other business . Whilst much of the dedicated workforce is volunteer there is a risk that these resources grow older and are not replaceable .
It is a constant indicator of problems to come that the age profile of many club committees is way past retirement age , we have a responsibility to recruit from
the underrepresented groups , certainly more women , younger volunteers and a representative ethnic mix from the area would be good objectives .
This isn ’ t going to happen overnight and clubs will have to adapt to become more universally welcoming , more diverse and more willing to run on business lines . Every club is different and there have been some truly amazing transformations to admire in recent years but I fear for the clubs who are not planning . Our ambition is to be as good as we can be , to develop long term strategies that will strengthen and enhance the club and to celebrate the game of rugby .”
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