Following the RFU’s announcement confirming the end of the 2019/20 season we would like to thank all our players, coaches, volunteers, sponsors and members for your commimtent and valued support.
These are challenging times and the future is uncertain. The enjoyment of rugby and gathering socially - the very spirit and purpose of a club - may be suspended but it’s not game over. Rest assured, your committee is taking steps to ensure the survival of the club whilst the gates are closed and we look forward to welcoming you back to Gorton Street as soon as possible.
Rugby
The curtailment of fixtures for our 1XV and 2XV has left unanswered questions regarding status next season. As we understand it, the League tables as they stand are the final positions. When we have more facts we will share them.
Our Mens section have endured a difficult and disappointing season following promotion for both teams last year. However they must be congratulated on their recruitment and sponsorship efforts which have got the club heading in the right direction. Well done gents. We go again with renewed optimism next season, with planning already underway on a structure to support a 3XV team.
Our Ladies have also worked hard to rebuild their squad, incorporating many home grown U18 girls and should be applauded on their efforts to conclude their season strongly, earning a 5th place finish in the Women’s Championship North 2. There are also signs of the possible emergence of a new under 13’s girls team next year with school recruitment planned.
Our Colts team were defeated in the Semi Final of the Lancashire Colts Trophy and had progressed to a Colts Senior Plate Quarter Final which was to be played today. With the Colts Cup competitions now cancelled, as holders of that Silverware it would appear they have retained it. A small victory perhaps but an admirable achievement considering two thirds of the U18 squad are U17. U17 Tallis Keeler was selected to represent Lancashire and four U18s were selected for senior rugby in an Eccles shirt. Well done lads for sticking together during a testing season.
Our Minis and Juniors section, 29 years old this year, has once again surpassed all expectations this season. With 130 active registered players our home grown reputation continues to grow each year. Many of our M&J teams have benefited from recruitment and sponsorship this season and we have several new coaches stepping up to gain their qualifications. The Junior leagues and Cup competitions have been cancelled. (Awaiting more details from M&J committee on final cup status and county represenation). We hope by Autumn, with your support, to again have teams from U6s-U16s and support those age groups struggling for numbers by spreading the word amongst our community and schools.
Events
Following full consideration of the coronavirus situation our fund-raising Sportsman’s Dinner and Gala Diner Dance Marquee events on 15th and 16th May are cancelled.
Our Mini and Junior presentation evenings planned for April and May are postponed.
The Annual Senior Player Awards night 5th June and the club AGM traditionally held in early June are also both postponed.
The club hopes to hold our annual Beer & Gin festival in August to launch the new season and an announcement on the viability of this and other events will be made later in the summer.
All Eccles RFC Duke of Edinburgh Award activites and expeditions planned for this summer are cancelled. Participants will be kept informed of developments.
Facilities
Our Clubhouse, gym and grounds will remain closed until further notice. Our 3G artificial turf pitch is not available for hire. Groundskeeping and maintenance work will continue to ensure our facilities remain operational, secure and ready for when rugby resumes.
Support
The club will keep members informed of developments via its website and social media. Please continue to follow us and keep in touch.
Government Covid-19 sanctions mean many of our members are now confined to work or learn at home. For those of you increasing your online shopping please consider that you can support Eccles RFC with every purchase to you make by registering at https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk. It’s easy, it doesn’t cost you a penny and it keeps a small income coming into the club whilst our doors are closed.
For government information and updates on the coronavirus crisis click this LINK For NHS advice click this link LINK
If you are struggling to cope with this unprecedented situation please reach out to your fellow club members. Make that call. We are all in it together.
