Rugby Club ISSUE 83 | Page 104

Brixham FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG youngsters of all abilities, not just the stars of the future, is the lifeblood of any successful club. One of the difficulties facing any club is the transition between Colts rugby and the seniors, and in an effort to maximise the number of guys who continue playing, Brixham play two U21 matches each year against old foes from across the bay, Torquay, for the Reg Brewer Cup. These take place at Christmas and Easter, with serious preparation and coaching, and are proving very successful. Another challenge facing a localised club like Brixham, is to ' @ attract people from the area, but who’s roots lie elsewhere and who have no history with the club. So, Brixham try very hard to extend a warm welcome to anyone new at the club, whether as spectators, players or parents, recognising that, no matter the accent, they are all Brixham people. Astley Park boasts excellent facilities, including match floodlights and full training lights on the second pitch. Consistent improvement over the years began when volunteers built the current clubhouse and grandstand in the 80’s. @ Regular improvements have been made since to both changing and bar areas, including a wheelchair lift, with further enhancements planned for 2019. The result is a clubhouse and local amenity second to none, which is open and busy every day of the week, with a variety of functions and classes, ranging from celebrations through to exercise and slimming. So, the FIshermen are currently in rude health, and look forward to 2019 with optimism. However, everyone at the club is mindful of the fragility of this buoyant @ @ “Maritime International Solutions is the main club sponsor and have supported them for between five and ten years, helping out with games, shirts etc. As a company we insure boats around the Brixham area and love to help out the community in any way possible so decided to sponsor the rugby club. I get down to most of the games; they are doing really well at the moment so I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.” Dick Gregory 104 Issue 83