Wednesday, 9 May 2012By Roger Holmes
This weekend is Presidents day at Clitheroe RUFC.
This is the traditional end of season match up between the current 1st XV against the Presidents Invitation XV.
This year, the make up of the Presidents XV has been kept a closely guarded secret, with the Pres and his cohort Bob Wilkinson assembling a squad to suit all ground conditions and be able to play some 'ba-ba's style of rugby.
1st XV players have only a sketchy idea of whom their illustrious opposition will be come kick off at 3pm
The 1st XV have been hit hard by injuries/cricket/trips to Peru; so a ingenious plan whereby players seamlessly slot into many and indeed any position has been practised for many weeks.
One thing is for sure; this weekend will mark the end of Oliver McEntyre's tenure as 1st XV Captain.
After 3 years at the helm he is stepping aside for a younger/fitter/better looking/more organised person.
Joking aside[?] well done and thanks to Ollie who has guided the team and the Club through some choppy waters, and despite a demanding family and work schedule has kept up the training and playing apperances as well as doing all the many other tasks the role requires.
Well done and thanks again.
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We are lucky, I think, to have secured the services of one of the top International whistle blowers to officiate, yes, none other than
Ulsters finest - Mr Sandy Woods, from the Manchester Soc.
Thanks for coming and enjoy the day.
Just a brief note on the background of the trophies that are being fought for this Saturday;
The two teams compete for the 'Nick Hopwood Memorial Trophy' whilst the 'Bob Haworth Man of the Match Trophy' is also very keenly sought after.
Nick Hopwood was our first Club President and tragically passed away in 1983 after a horse riding accident; a larger than life character who had a big influence during the early years of our Club.
Just a few months later, Bob Haworth, Club Chairman and prop forward, collapsed and died during a game for the 2nd XV up at Vale of Lune.
Older members will remember this most difficult of time, Dave Tatt was there on the pitch, and I recall the terrible phone call with the news that stunned a noisy clubhouse into silence.
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**It is right and proper we remember these two Gentlemen on this Saturday; on Presidents Day.
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Needless to say the bar and clubhouse will be open throughout and all members, guests, players past and present and any hangers on are welcome .
