Dear members, the last five months have dealt a heavy blow to our lives and liberty. However, though the future remains uncertain, it would appear that the COVID restrictions are lifting and the enjoyment of rugby may be possible, in some form, in the months ahead.
For those of you following the club on social media you’ll already be aware that our Senior players returned to pre-season training at the beginning of August and last week Lancashire RFU announced that all clubs in the region, including those in Greater Manchester, were able to progress to Stage C of the RFU Return to Rugby roadmap, which permits gathering of larger groups for outdoor activity.
With this news, the club committee have progressed plans for the safe and responsible return of Mini and Junior (U5-U16) activity at Eccles, with a view to reopening our gates on Sunday 6th September. M&J coaches and managers will meet in the next week to review proposals and full details will be published on the website before the end of August.
Registration is now open for the new season.
All existing players and members, must log-in, renew and update their personal details, and pay their annual membership using this link RFU GMS MEMBERSHIP LOGIN IN
If you are a new player and member, or have any problems with registration please contact Heather Thorpe heather.thorpe@btinternet.com
With consideration to the economic difficulties facing our community following lockdown, the club has kept its fees affordable for the 2020/21 season. We believe our membership offers great value and we encourage everyone (players, volunteers, parents, supporters) to register. Money is NEVER an obstacle to participation at Eccles RFC. If you have any difficulty in meeting the fees please do contact us in confidence at members@ecclesrfc.org.uk and we will find a way to ensure you can enjoy rugby and be a part of the club.
In March, Eccles RFC was forced to close and cancel all our annual fund-raising events. With your support, we now want to get the club back on its feet and fully operational after our enforced absence, so we can face the new challenges together. Anyone interested in taking on a role or helping out at the club next season please drop us a line at volunteer@ecclesrfc.org.uk
Although there are no confirmed start dates as yet for fixtures we remain optimistic that our 1XV will compete in the ADM Premier Division; our 2XV in Div 2 North; a rejuvenated 3XV can be possible with some exciting colts talent making their transition into the senior ranks; Our Ladies can continue their promising squad rebuilding with the incorporation of several homegrown U18 girls; and our M&J section, celebrating its 29th year, can continue to build upon its flourishing reputation and growth with the emergence of an U5s team and a U13 girls team.
So, although lots of things will be different this season at Gorton Street, there’s also a lot to look forward to, including welcoming you back.
