by Tim Nuttall
A push towards widening the appeal of rugby in the Withernsea area has seen the recent launch of a brand-new training opportunity for those interested in open-age rugby league.
Training sessions take place every Tuesday evening, from 7pm, at Fouracre Park, the home of Withernsea RUFC, behind the Plough Inn at Hollym. The initial aim of these sessions is to gauge interest, with a view of building a team in preparation to play a few friendlies this summer.
The Open Age Rugby League is open to players aged 16 and over, whether experienced or just wanting to try something new.
For more information, contact head coach Dave Wilson on 07869 285 163 or Dan Wardman on 07415 993 597.
The decision to launch this opportunity was one of the hot topics of discussion at Withernsea RUFC’s recent AGM, where the possibility of collaborative working with other local clubs was also discussed as a means of safeguarding the future of grassroots rugby in the Withernsea area.
Following a season where the logistics of fielding an away team sometimes proved to be a challenge, leaving them without a game to play, Withernsea players occasionally joined the ranks at Hornsea RUFC as a means of still being able to participate in the sport that they love.
Tentative plans have subsequently been discussed for the possibility of future shared working between the two clubs, for the benefit of both.
Coupled with the AGM was Withernsea RUFC’s presentations evening which saw a number of trophies, voted for by players and committee members, being awarded to club members in recognition of outstanding achievements.
This year’s awards went to Steve “Tweedy” Read, who was voted the Players’ Player of the Year, and Jake Bowen who secured the Committee’s Player of the Year award. Sam Hartland was awarded Man of Steel; Rob Weekes won Impact Player, with Dan Wardman recognised as the Top Try Scorer. Finally, Clubman awards went to Mick Moor, Al Westoby and Dan Wardman.
Bob Wardman of Withernsea RUFC said: “It was a great evening. Congratulations and well done to all the lads who won awards.
“We would like to thank Withernsea Golf Club for hosting the event, Castle Café for providing the buffet and AAA Security for sponsoring the trophies.
“Let’s hope that next season sees Withernsea RUFC prosper and continue a fine tradition in the town.”
