Stocksbridge RUFC

Globe Holidays sponsored Stocksbridge Rugby became victims of the arctic conditions for the 2^nd week running as their eagerly anticipated home clash against lowly Knaresborough was frozen off, along with all the other fixtures in the Counties 4 Yorkshire competition at the weekend. Stocksbridge will now finish the Year in an encouraging 7^th position in the league ladder, ready for a real assault on the top four places & promotion play offs in 2023 !

Advertised as the traditional Christmas Jumper fixture, players & members sported their creations in the clubhouse instead & Callum ‘whippet’ Green, pictured above, was chosen as the winner for 2022 for his natty blue number.

With no further fixtures during December, the Clarach Builders Man of Steel award has been won by Jack ‘crazy feet’ Spencer who, according to Head Coach Andy Lawrence, has played in several positions for the Club & performed solidly in all roles. Others to feature in the voting were: Pat O’Leary, Ryan Smith, Jack ‘milky’ Martin, Johnny Gill & Ricky ‘rooney’ James who have also shown great commitment & versatility when called upon.

At the midway point in the League Competition, Lawrence has been encouraged with the improvement, style & commitment of the whole squad, ‘we can look forward to next Year in the knowledge that we can match anyone on our day’, he enthused, adding, ‘our game is developing & evolving which will be exciting to watch & enjoyable to play, particularly as our injury list shortens & availability improves’. There is also special praise for the raft of junior talent coming thru the ranks, & making their debuts for the 1^st XV this Year, Jacob Crosby, Logan Hannah, Dylan O’Keefe, Sam Miles, Joe Martin along with Harrison Norman all taking their place in the Senior Squad roster.

Stocksbridge Rugby return to action on 7^thJanuary with a winnable clash away at York RI, whilst the next fixture at fortress Coal Pit Lane is on 14^th January when Stocksbridge will be looking to avenge an earlier defeat to Aireborough Rugby, kick off 2.15pm. All are welcome.

Chairman Andy Bell & all the Club wish the players, staff, volunteers, members & sponsors a very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year. You are most welcome at the Clubhouse over the festive season.

written by Andrew Tyers