It is a quiet time at Norton Down. June is a month for relaxing and re-charging the batteries after what proved to be a successful, if hectic, 2018/9 season.
The Second XV won their league and gaining promotion to play in Somerset One next season. The First XV came second in Western Counties North, behind local rivals, Chew Valley, and took part in a home play-off against Crediton to finalise which club would gain promotion, which resulted in a rather unlucky, and excruciatingly close, loss.
Add to that a strong showing in the Bath Combination Cup, in which competition Norton played, and narrowly lost, in the Final against Bath University at Bath Rec.
During much of April, the First XV seemed to playing two games a week!
Once these fixtures were fulfilled, there was a May Bank Holiday tour to Brighton to endure, closely followed by the Annual Dinner and award ceremony on 10th May.
Highlights of the night were Martin Blackmore, after his first season as Club Coach, being presented with the Club Man of the Year award, and top try-scorer going to Joe Button who racked up an astonishing 32 touch downs in the season. The Colts also had a very successful season and the U16s played (but lost) in two finals.
Meanwhile, the Junior and Mini sections continue to flourish with vast numbers of enthusiasts in evidence every Sunday of the season. A new attraction is Ladies’ rugby training on Monday evenings.
As we now look towards preparations for the new campaign, which starts in September, full pre-season training will start on Tuesday, 2nd July. If you fancy just getting fit, or want to dip your toes into this amazing sport, then do come along at 7 p.m. All new arrivals will be made very welcome and should soon enjoy the banter and camaraderie. Food is available after the sessions and bar is open.
You may contact the Club via our website: www.midsomernortonrfc.co.uk, First Team Captain, Tom Fear: [email protected]/07597 721914 or Head Coach, Martin Blackmore: [email protected]/07513 480270.
Nigel Rowles, Club President