Chiefs

Chiefs

It's fantastic to be back in the swing of rugby at Bideford RFC as we celebrate our historic 100th anniversary season. This year's senior coaching team sees Andy MacKenzie- Shapland continue as Director of Rugby, with Kevin Booth as Head Coach, Andy Loosemore leading the backs, and Liam Balsdon overseeing strength and conditioning. Together, we remain fully committed to the three-year plan we set out, and we are now entering an exciting second year of that journey. Following relegation, we knew automatic promotion would be an ambitious target. The league was packed with well-organised and experienced sides, and we recognised that every week would present a tough challenge. To finish runners-up in our first season at this level was therefore a tremendous achievement and one the whole club can be proud of. Last season, we identified three clear objectives: • Establish the Quins in a more competitive league structure. • Continue developing the talented players progressing from our Colts. • Compete at the top end of the league table. I'm delighted to say we made significant progress on all three. For the first time since I've been at the club, both senior teams will be competing in league rugby. This is a hugely important step forward. The Quins now have the opportunity to play meaningful, competitive fixtures on a regular basis, rather than being affected by the cancellations and postponements that were so common in the merit table. Creating a clear and competitive pathway from Colts rugby into the senior game is essential for the long-term success of Bideford RFC. It has also been incredibly encouraging to see so many young players making the transition into senior rugby. Harvey Beal, Sam Bola, Ryan Hutchings, Oscar Haste, Billy Williams, Dexter De Wreed and Archie Teatley all made their senior debuts last season, with several more talented youngsters ready to follow in their footsteps. Another highlight was fielding an Under-23 side against Tavistock, allowing us to blend experienced senior players with our emerging Colts. It was an excellent opportunity for players to showcase their potential and gave the coaching staff plenty of optimism for the future. The development doesn't stop there. Our Colts also benefited from giving four Under-16 players valuable experience at the next level. Finn Booth, Oli Cornish, Ed Wensley and Harry Parker all stepped up superbly and did themselves, and the club, proud. Looking ahead to this season, our commitment to developing young talent remains as strong as ever. With another talented Colts squad coming through, don't be surprised to see some new names appearing on the teamsheet throughout the year. There is a real sense of excitement around the club. With both senior sides now playing league rugby, we will continue to approach the season one game at a time while striving to build on last year's success. The Chiefs' league will be as competitive as ever, with PAO strengthening their squad significantly, while Topsham and Honiton will once again provide stern tests. We'll also make a new trip to Brixham, whose second XV joins the league this season, adding another exciting challenge to the fixture list. Finally, I would like to thank everyone who continues to support Bideford RFC. Whether it's the loyal supporters lining the touchline, the ever-vocal Sin Bin Bar faithful leading the Biddy chants, or the volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes, your support makes this club what it is. Combined with our excellent clubhouse facilities and the excitement surrounding our centenary year, all the ingredients are in place for another memorable season. Here's to a fantastic year of rugby and celebrating 100 years of Bideford RFC.