The club

President's message

I thank retiring President, Ken Gordon, for his efforts over 3 years, he has worked hard to represent the Club and to bring all the parts of the Club together. He has deservedly been elected by Sussex RFU to become their President next year - the fifth Lewes member to do so in the last 30 years. Well done Ken.

I am delighted be chosen as President of Lewes RFC, some 44 years after joining the Club. Those years have seen good times - when we came close to achieving National League status, and not so good, as in 1976 when a drought prevented us from playing any home games for 3 years. During those 3 years, that we pulled together as a Club, and got our current Clubhouse built. In 1979, the building was ideal, but times change, and it now needs replacing, together with the Changing facilities.

We launched Project Turnaround in 2009, and have been battling for nearly two years, to convince all the various parties involved, that it is possible. We hope to soon reach the stage when we can put cost figures to the plans, and come to all Club members for their support. Watch this space.

Last season was marked by the gutsy performance of the First XV, under the leadership of Ben and Nigel, coming agonisingly close to a play-off place for promotion. Better seasons, too, for the Seconds and Thirds, and Women. Our successful Juniors continue to feed into the Senior XV’s promising a bright future with home-grown talent. The Minis provide us with one of the best sights on a Sunday morning – hundreds of youngsters, enjoying the discipline and teamwork that Rugby for all ages. Well done to the Coaches and Managers Mums and Dads at all levels.

No Club can operate as successfully as ours, without the dozens of volunteers filling jobs from Chairman to Secretaries, Treasurers, Registrars, Captains Social Organisers and others. Most of their work is behind the scenes, but vital nevertheless. Without you, nothing happens. It is however, a fact that we rely too heavily or the older generation – lets see a few more ’under 40’s’ helping to lead the club into the future.

Our Sponsors are an essential part of the Club, and it is everyone’s duty to make sure that they know they are appreciated. Remember, we need them, more than they need us!

Finally, a word of thanks to Dave Winsor, as Secretary of the Sports Club, its been a privilege to work with him, he has transformed the Clubroom into a profitable, but welcoming, smart and attractive meeting place. His many hours of voluntary work can go unnoticed, but he has made a substantial difference to our enjoyment.

Having been off around the County for many years, I know the respect that Lewes RFC enjoys. Let’s make sure it continues, on and off the field by keeping in mind the RFU ‘core values’ of Team work, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship – to that we can add ‘ Lewes RFC Club Spirit, and ensure a memorable 2011-2012.

Peter Sealey
Lewes RFC Club President