As we all start to gradually appear from the tides of lockdowns and uncertainty, we need to switch back to the prospect of normality that we all crave for. Covid has had a devastating impact on many lives, businesses and organisations, Congleton RUFC is one that has been adversely affected and currently stands in a perilous position.

The club has a proud history, dating back to 1860, one of the oldest clubs in the world. That history has been built on a foundation of volunteers, giving up their time to support the club and game that they have grown to love. Volunteers are the lifeblood of all community sports clubs, without them nothing happens – coaching sessions to be held, games and referees to be organised, drinks to be served, bills to be paid.

It is very easy to forget what these volunteers do, and not realise what doesn’t happen if they are not there. The reality may quickly dawn on all of the clubs members, that things that are taken for granted may stop happening if we don’t all act quickly.

Over the last 2 years the amount of volunteers supporting the club has dwindled due to various reasons. It’s getting to the point where it is becoming unsustainable, there is too much being asked of too few. We have invested heavily into the clubs facilities to provide a better experience, and we need to ensure that this is fully utilised and supported.

So where do we need help – to be frank in every section of the club:

Mini & Junior coaches – we have numerous gaps in multiple age groups. Training will be provided to upskill coaches from an RFU certified coach, you don’t need to have a playing background. Without the youth we have no pipeline for the future
Facilities committee – without this functioning we can’t open and operate the club and organise fixtures
Finance committee – without raising funds, getting sponsorships, donations and managing finances we become financially unviable
Leadership roles – we have Chairman, M&J Chairman, Trustee roles to fill
Senior teams - player recruitment

Whatever your skillset and background, there is a role that you can help out in. It can be a hugely rewarding experience and a chance for you to make a difference to other peoples lives and experiences. We can tailor roles to fit with the time you have available. We are running an open evening at the clubhouse for people to come down and volunteer on 2nd March at 7.30pm at Congleton RUFC Clubhouse. The bar will be open, the club will be paying.

If we don’t fill these key roles, the next time you or your family want to come down to play or watch a game, have a social drink and catch up with friends you may be disappointed – the club may be closed.

Please do not assume that somebody else is going to do it, that’s why we’re in the position we’re in now.

It's your club, support it, get involved (please) ). Come and join us on 2nd March at 7.30pm at Congleton RUFC Clubhouse.

Matt Smith
Chairman to the Trustees of Congleton RUFC