Author: Becca Williams

Fresh Faces, Fierce Ambitions

Posted on | by Becca Williams

We’re thrilled to announce the latest addition to our rugby family as we continue building momentum ahead of preseason. With the new season on the horizon, our squad is growing stronger, deeper, and more determined than ever.

We welcome the following to the Marine Travel Ground:

  • Luke Talbot-Centre<, Harry Drane, tight head prop
  • Lewis Young, loosehead Prop
  • Charlie Barker, lock, Carter Oliver, loosehead Prop
  • Ryley Thomas, Back Row
  • Archie English, Wing

Our signings brings fresh energy, talent, and experience to the team, adding another layer of depth to an already dynamic group. From the first training session, they’ve hit the ground running, slotting in seamlessly with our current players and embracing the club culture with enthusiasm. It’s been brilliant to see how quickly the new lads have gelled with the squad. There’s a real buzz around training, and everyone’s pushing each other to be better.

With preseason fixtures just around the corner, we’re excited to see how this evolving squad performs on the pitch. The hunger is there. The chemistry is building. And the belief is stronger than ever.

 

Preseason Buzz as Canterbury Rugby Club Gears Up

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Preseason Preparation 

Canterbury’s pre-season groundwork has set the tone for an energized return to Merton Lane. After six intensive weeks of strength and conditioning at The Archbishop’s School and Kent College, players are looking forward to the second block of their preseason programme.

 

Pitch Renovations and Member Support

Thanks to our dedicated members and generous sponsors, pitch renovations have continued apace.  The work done over the summer has been vital, and the improvements promise an even better playing surface as the season unfolds.

Preseason Training Kicks Off

The full club reunion arrives on 5th August, with training venues at The Archbishop’s School and Kent College having provided  ideal facilities for our first block work. Focus now shifts to teamwork and tactical shaping back at The Club.

Senior Coaching Team Revamp

Our senior setup welcomes fresh expertise alongside stalwarts Matt Corker (Head Coach) and Alex Veale (Attack Coach):

  • Max Ganderton takes on Head of Performance role.
  • Former player Mal Graves returns to the club to Pilgrims.
  • Nathan Morris changes his role to become Senior Skills Coach.

Colts Integration into Senior Rugby

Under Colts Head Coach Cameron MacMillian, the transition pathway is stronger than ever. the colts section has become part of the senior playing group. Colts players have joined senior sessions to experience adult level intensity. Those breaking through this preseason include:

  • Alex Carter (Centre)
  • Alex Sullivan (Second Row)
  • Andrew Thomas (Hooker)
  • Ed Thompson (Centre/Back Three)
  • Harry Lloyd (Scrum Half)
  • Harvey Ingram (Utility Back)
  • Paddy Parker (Fly Half)
  • Ruben Kalonji (Blindside Flanker)

 

Women’s Section Developments

We have previously announced that Ryan Mitchell arrives as Women’s Head Coach with a clear brief: build on last season’s third-place finish in National 1 South. Ryan’s strategic vision and passion promise further elevation of our Women’s XV.

 

Scrum Kitchen Launch

Over the summer, we opened Scrum Kitchen, a flexible events venue that’s already hosting private bookings. Profits from this venture are ploughed back into club facilities. Next up: a welcome back session for coaches, hosted by our Scrum Kitchen team alongside incoming Mini & Youth Chair Ky Champion.

 

Community Section Updates

The club’s community arm evolves with Matt Pinnick stepping up as Head of Community. Replacing, Nathan Morris who will venture into Skills Coach.

 

Senior Team Preseason Fixtures

With less than two weeks until kick-off, our men’s side tests itself in four friendlies:

Game Fixture Venue Date & KO
1 Esher v Canterbury Away Saturday 16 August, 1pm
2 Canterbury v Tonbridge Juddians Home Friday 22 August, 8pm
3 Blackheath v Canterbury 1st XV Men Away Friday 29 August, 7:45pm
4 Canterbury Pilgrims v Deal & Betteshanger Lions Home Friday 29 August, 7:30pm

Please note Game 1 was originally scheduled for 3pm but has been moved to a 1pm KO.

 

Director of Rugby’s Perspective

Taff, our Director of Rugby, is under no illusions about the challenges ahead: like every other club in the league we are striving to strengthen our squad and provide continued improvement in not only the senior squad but importantly the pilgrims and canons to help drive our standards to be successful.”

 

Looking Ahead

As preseason intensity builds, watch this space for the latest news  around the senior squads. We are looking forward to the challenges ahead and the ambition is to create a successful and entertaining brand of rugby for all our members, supporters and sponsors.

 

Welcoming Ryan Mitchell as Women’s Head Coach for the 25–26 Season

Posted on | by Becca Williams

After a rocky 24–25 campaign, the women’s side showed grit and determination to finish third; a result that speaks volumes about the squad’s resilience and potential. Now, with fresh energy and a clear vision, the club is proud to announce the appointment of Ryan Mitchell as Head Coach for the 25–26 season.

🔥 Building Momentum with a Proven Leader

Ryan Mitchell brings over two decades of coaching experience, with a career that spans elite programs in both South Africa and the UK. His reputation as a culture first coach precedes him; he’s known for creating inclusive, high-performance environments where players thrive both on and off the pitch.

Ryan’s coaching philosophy is rooted in:

  • Structure and Standards: Every player knows their role and what excellence looks like.
  • Empowerment and Expression: Athletes are encouraged to make decisions, take ownership, and express themselves.
  • Connection and Culture: Success is built on trust, shared values, and consistency.

His sessions are purposeful and layered, balancing technical development with real  game decision-making. He’s not just building a team, he’s shaping a mindset.

🚀 Eyes on a Stronger Start

The 24–25 season may have had its challenges, but the team’s late surge to third place proved what’s possible. With Ryan’s leadership, we’re not just aiming to replicate that success, we’re setting our sights higher. His clear goals and player-centred approach will be key to unlocking the squad’s full potential.

As we kick off the 25–26 season, there’s a renewed sense of belief and ambition. With Ryan Mitchell at the helm, the women’s team is ready to rise, rally, and rewrite the narrative.

Lions vs Wallabies: The Test Series You Won’t Want to Miss!

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Rugby fans, mark your calendars—The British and Irish Lions prepare to face off against the Wallabies in a thrilling series of Test Matches. Whether you’re a die-hard Lions supporter or just love the roar of competitive rugby, this is your chance to witness the action, camaraderie, and sporting spirit that defines the game.

📅 Match Schedule

Here’s what’s coming up:

  • 1st Test – 19 July 2025 | Kickoff: 11:00 AM
  • 2nd Test – 26 July 2025 | Kickoff: 11:00 AM (Outside screening only)
  • 3rd Test – 2 August 2025 | Kickoff: 11:00 AM

All matches will be shown live, so bring your friends, grab a pint, and join the electric atmosphere that only Test rugby can deliver.

🍳 Fuel Up at Scrum Kitchen

Arrive early and treat yourself to a hearty breakfast at Scrum Kitchen, our go-to hub for pre-match fuel. Rugby and a full English—it doesn’t get better than this.

👉 Book your table in advance here to secure the best seats in the house.

🎉 Win Big with Our Lions Raffle!

Fancy taking home a piece of rugby legend? Enter our exclusive raffle for your chance to win a signed Huw Jones shirt. Tickets are just £10 per strip, and all proceeds go to supporting grassroots rugby programs. The raffle runs across all three Test matches—so don’t miss your shot!

Whether you’re here for the rucks, the raffles, or the rivalries, the Lions vs Wallabies Test Series promises unforgettable moments. Let’s make some noise. Let’s make some memories. See you there!

 

Rugby is Returning: Canterbury’s 2025-26 Pre-Season Fixtures Announced

Posted on | by Becca Williams

The countdown is on, and the stage is set for a thrilling pre-season as Canterbury Rugby Club gears up for the 25/26 campaign. With a summer of hard work behind them, the squad is ready to lace up their boots and take to the pitch in a series of exciting fixtures that promise fierce competition and valuable preparation. From Giles’ hard work preparing the pitches to coaches planning rigorous sessions.

A Warm Welcome—and a Fierce Challenge

We kick off the pre-season with a trip to old rivals Esher on Saturday 16th August (3pm KO). It’s always a spirited encounter, and we’re delighted to welcome Esher back into National 2. This clash promises to reignite a classic rivalry in front of a passionate crowd.

Next up, we host newly Nat 1 promoted Tonbridge Juddians (TJs) under the lights at the Marine Travel Ground on Friday 22nd August (8pm KO). With TJs preparing to ascend into National League 1, we expect a fast-paced and high-quality match that will test our mettle and showcase the depth of both squads.

Senior Squad Depth on Display

In our final two fixtures, we’ll look to rotate and refine as we separate the extended senior squad across two matches. On Friday 29th August, Canterbury 1st XV Men head to Blackheath (7:45pm KO), while the Pilgrims welcome Deal & Betteshanger Lions at home (7:30pm KO). It’s a great opportunity to give valuable minutes to players across the board and strengthen our cohesion ahead of the regular season.

 

We’re Ready. Are You?

There’s nothing quite like a home fixture at the Marine Travel Ground, and we can’t wait to see familiar faces back in the stands. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or brand new to the black and amber, these fixtures offer the perfect opportunity to reconnect with the game we love.

Join us, feel the buzz, and be part of the journey. Get Behind Us!

Pre-Season Fixtures:

  • Game 1: Esher v Canterbury — Away, Saturday 16th August, 3:00pm KO
  • Game 2: Canterbury v Tonbridge Juddians — Home, Friday 22nd August, 8:00pm KO
  • Game 3: Blackheath v Canterbury 1st XV Men — Away, Friday 29th August, 7:45pm KO
  • Game 4: Canterbury Pilgrims v Deal & Betteshanger Lions — Home, Friday 29th August, 7:30pm KO

 

Five Rising Stars Selected for London & South East U20s Clash with the North

Posted on | by Becca Williams

The club is bursting with pride this week as five of our own have been named in the starting lineup for the London & South East U20s squad, set to face off against the North this Sunday.

After an intense five-week training process that whittled the original 35-player training squad down to the final 23, our players—Andy Thomas, Max McCormack, Isaac Divine, Owain Collins and Bartholomew Johnson—have all earned starting positions in this much-anticipated fixture. Their dedication, skill, and determination have been nothing short of inspirational, and their inclusion is a testament to the strength of our youth development programme.

The match will kick off at 11am on Sunday at Broadstreet RFC, and promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the country’s strongest regions. With regional pride and selection credibility on the line, the stage is set for a fiercely contested battle.

We encourage all club members, families, and supporters to make the journey and cheer on our boys as they represent both the region and our club with honour. Let’s get behind them and show what this club is made of!

2 Days to Go: Our Kitchen Opens Monday

Posted on | by Becca Williams

 

The countdown is officially on- and we’re just two days away from opening the doors to our brand new kitchen. After months of planning, prepping and perfecting, we’re thrilled to finally welcome you in.

Whether you’re craving bold flavours, comforting classics or something totally new! We’ve got something special cooking for you. Our team have poured their heart into every detail and we can’t wait for you to experience it.

From the moment you walk in, expect warm smiles, fresh ingredients and a space designed to make you feel right at home.

Opening Day is Monday 23rd June!

Come hungry and leave happy- see you there!

A Perfect Send-Off: The Final Mini and Youth Event of the Season

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Sunday 4th April saw laughter and infectious energy at the club’s final Mini and Youth event of the season. It was a morning packed with excitement, fun, and unforgettable moments as players, parents, and coaches came together to celebrate the young athletes and their dedication throughout the year.

The day kicked off with fun training sessions. Throughout the day ice cream was served as a refreshing treat, giving everyone a moment to cool down and savour the sweet reward for a season well played.

But the true highlight of the day? The water fights! Laughter erupted as players, coaches, and even parents joined in the soaking chaos, proving that a bit of friendly mischief is the perfect way to wrap up an incredible year.

A special thrill awaited as the young athletes got the chance to try out gel blasters from Primary Sports Giants. The excitement was palpable as players tested their aim and agility in a high-energy showdown. Thank you Primary Sports Giants for providing such an incredible setup, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

To conclude the day, everyone came together to celebrate each other and their fellow age groups, acknowledging the progress, achievements, and camaraderie built throughout the season. It was a heart-warming sight—players, parents, and coaches united in appreciation for a year filled with dedication, perseverance, and joy.

The season may have come to a close, but the memories made on this special day will last a lifetime. Here’s to another fantastic year of growth, sportsmanship, and fun—until next season!