WEEKEND KICKOFF

GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY of OAK BAY REC CENTRE

Long-term vision and community involvement were two outcomes from a thoughtful speech given by Chris Hyde-Lay, recognizing Brent Johnston’s induction to the Community Wall of Fame today.

The words expressed how important our rugby club is in the community.  Apart from those physical ones mentioned in Ruck & Maul, this is a legacy that Brent has left us with to carry the torch.  We need to step up when called to assist with the Tea Party, Christmas on the Avenue, Car Shows or any other event that may take place.  We need to volunteer and let council know we have their back.  The payback is there in spades.  This will particularly apply as the Oak & Palm Society pushes their initiative.


 



Pictured above is the pavilion project, circa 2005!  At this time our men had nowhere to change for practice and games.  David Howells of Capital City Paving provided us with a storage container, free of charge for the season, to serve the purpose. Dave had been a supporter in other ways, and one stage a sponsor, and a number of our past players have been employed by Capital City.  David recently passed away.  Rest in Peace, Dave.

 TOUGH TIMES

The senior men’s program has faced some challenges in their first three matches and tomorrow looks more of the same with injuries and unavailability. It will be a challenge for a number of Divvies to step up to the plate.  Opportunity comes from adversity.  Challenges have occurred in the past as witnessed here




On the opposite side of the coin is the news that the club’s mini rugby registrations have surpassed any previous highs, with girls’ numbers at U10 and U12 being very healthy, no doubt attributable to RC’s women’s success at RWC. Director Rod Fraser still carries the role, although looking towards succession, with former players, Stefan Alexander, Clayton Daume, and Lane Nadeau, all working at the U12 level, the future looks healthy.  Rod has grown the program, ensuring coaches provide technically correct, challenging and enjoyable instruction.  His work sees the inclusion of twelve U6’s this year. ‘onya, Rod and thanks.

WHILST WITH THANKS……

Today we bring sad news on the verge of our first home game.  Long-time gatekeeper, Gord Hawkins must finally call it a day.  Gord has been a club man for over fifty years.  He was a very useful flanker in his playing days.  Today, edging on ninety, we lose another one of those little cogs that make a club hum.  Thanks for your service, Gord, taken for granted by many.  We wish you good health in the years ahead.




AND TO ALL OUR PLAYERS                             
FIGHT HARD TO BE YOUR BEST




Comments