Ventnor RFC are looking forward to playing their first match of the new season today (Saturday), putting to bed their development season in 2017/2018.
The squad has worked hard to prepare for the year ahead with the coaching team of Chris Fletcher and Dean Magnurson having worked tirelessly in the off season to set out a new game plan and goals for the new season. Training has been upped to twice a week for 2018/2019 and club captain Jake Babington is putting the squad through their paces to improve their fitness. This has seen great commitment from the squad all looking to improve.
Due to the league restructure, Ventnor will still be in what is called Hampshire 1, and will be looking to cement their place in this division and competing at the highest possible level they can. The 2XV will be playing in the new Hampshire 4 with 14 other teams in the league – plenty of competition should see some great development within in this team.
There has been a reshuffle in the committee, which sees the youngest ever chairman, Ed Blake, take the reins. A number of other young players have taken up positions on the committee too, with James Green taking over fixtures, Andy Teague taking charge of organising referees, Simon Blow as the new honorary club secretary and Sam Dawson in charge of organising travel for both teams, as well as assisting Jake Babington with captaincy for the 1XV.
In addition, there is a shared captaincy for the 2XV with both Mike Flanagan and Jacobus Stement stepping up to lead ‘The Lions’.
Ventnor have managed to gain new players both fresh faces and returning players all adding up to what should be a great season.
Off the field, Red Funnel have agreed to sponsor the club for the cost of the ferry fares when travelling to away games. Both teams will now be travelling with Red Funnel across the Solent on the 20 away fixtures the club has.
Chairman Ed Blake says:
“Such a significant sponsor as Red Funnel, along with our longstanding sponsors in AJ Wells and numerous other local businesses, shows how much Ventnor RFC is being seen as the credible outfit we know we are.
“We want to provide a place not only for good rugby but also to be a community asset; a platform for development. We have spent the past few years increasing the professionalism of the club and that will continue this year with a new sports therapy team to aid the players. Also this year, we are starting a big investment in our infrastructure. Plans for floodlights, changing room and shower facility refits as well as a new kit room with viewing platform on top are coming to fruition. Add to this the little things such as updated Wi-fi and an upgrade to the pétanque pitch which have already happened.”
Club Captain Jake Babington said:
“The feeling within the team is a positive one as always. I’m excited for the season ahead.”
The season will get off to a great start this afternoon with a double header at home against Alton and then, celebrating their wins (hopefully), with a party for long standing member and previous chairman Warren ‘the Rev’ Riches’ 50th birthday. Games kick off at 15:00.
