Okehampton Rugby Club look forward to a new season

Here's the Club's preview of the 2010-11 season:

Following the endeavours of last season and the club's 125th anniversary year, season 2010/11 has already witnessed another important landmark in our history as Angela Pengelly has stepped forward to become our first ever female President. As a driving force in our entertainments committee, Angela is bringing a plethora of ideas regarding club functions to the table and so a full schedule of social events is eagerly anticipated.

On the field we go into 2010/11 in excellent heart following another fine year for all of the senior sides in 2009/10. The 1st XV not only enjoyed a comfortable first season back in Western Counties (West) but also won the Devon Intermediate Cup beating Crediton in the final. The 5th place finish in the league was highly creditable and achieved with many exciting and stylish performances.

However, the league would appear to be even tougher this year and the side will need to be on its guard to avoid 'second season syndrome' where a club finds the second year in a higher league far tougher than the first.

In spite of the achievements of the 1st XV, it was perhaps the 2nd XV, once again, who were the standout side in the club. A 4th place finish in Devon Merit Table 1 was not only an accurate reflection of the squad's skills and commitment, but showcased the strength in depth that the club has. As young players continue to develop through junior and Colts sides this can only improve and without doubt, the 2nd XV will be relishing the challenges of the new season.

The 3rd XV, to their eternal credit, won promotion to Devon Merit table 2 in their maiden season in competitive rugby. Their season was, however, something of a disjointed affair due to the  huge number of cry-o*** from opposition teams. However, next season they will undoubtedly get regular rugby but will need to be at their best to overcome the 2nd teams of the likes of Tiverton and Tavistock.

To the outside observer the Colts appeared to have a season of transition before them as they prepared for last season - however, nobody told them! They went about their business efficiently and effectively from the outset and once again reached the semi-finals of the Devon Cup. 2010/11 will again see the side highly competitive although with the academy/college benefits enjoyed by Exeter Chiefs and Ivybridge it will again be very difficult to break the duopoly that these sides hold over the silverware.

As always, the club is delighted to welcome new players of any age or ability. Training takes place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Please contact one of the team managers for full details - contact information is available on the Club's website.

Look out for match reports and photo galleries of this season's matches here on Okehampton People