Author: Denys Andrianjafy

Your Club. Your Story. Your Season. 

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Time to renew or join the Black & Amber family

As we turn the page on another unforgettable season at Canterbury Rugby Club, it’s time to come together once more on the pitch, on the sidelines, and in the heart of our community. Membership for the 2025/26 season is now open. Whether you’re renewing, joining for the first time, or registering as a player, this is your invitation to be part of something bigger.

Why join?
From the first whistle in September to the final try in spring, our club is more than just a place to play rugby—it’s a home for players, parents, supporters, volunteers, and friends. Being a member means:

  • Belonging to a passionate and welcoming rugby community
  • Enjoying matchdays that feel like family reunions
  • Getting access to apply for international tickets
  • Receiving discounts at the clubhouse bar, SCRUM Kitchen, and club shop
  • Supporting rugby across every age group, team, and ability

Whether you’re a player lacing up your boots, a parent cheering from the touchline, or a social member who simply loves the atmosphere, this is your club.

Reflecting on 2024/25
From grassroots to great achievements, last season was packed with Black & Amber moments:

  • Promotions earned and milestones celebrated
  • The rise of new talent and the return of familiar faces
  • Packed stands, buzzing club nights, and community events that brought us together
  • We did it the Canterbury way, together.

Looking ahead
The new season promises even more:

  • New league challenges for our senior sides
  • A growing women’s and girls’ programme
  • Expanding minis, youth, and community sessions
  • And, of course, more shared pride in everything we do in Black & Amber

How to join or renew
It’s quick and easy. Visit our Membership page now to renew or apply for membership: cantrugby.co.uk/membership

All players, adults, and youth must also be registered. Don’t wait until kick-off to get it sorted!

Join us again this season. Be proud. Be loud. Be Black & Amber.
#OneClub #YourStory #GetBehindUs

Maro Itoje & Harry Wilson

Big breakfasts & bigger moments: Lions draw first blood in Brisbane

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy
There’s nothing quite like a Lions Test morning at the club. With kick-off set for 11.00am, the Black & Amber faithful began filtering into the clubhouse from just after ten,  lured not just by the rugby, but by the unmistakable aroma of bacon, eggs, and ambition drifting from SCRUM Kitchen.
And let’s be honest, on a morning like this, only the Big Scrum Breakfast would do. Some went classic with sausage, beans, and toast stacked high; others took a more adventurous turn (yes, we saw you with the black pudding and spinach). Whatever the plate, appetites were matched only by anticipation.
The screen flickered on. Goosebumps came, and then the Lions roared.
A dominant first-half performance saw Andy Farrell’s men storm to a 27–19 win over the Wallabies in Brisbane, clinching a crucial 1–0 series lead. From the first whistle, the Lions were on it, winning a breakdown penalty inside a minute, which Finn Russell slotted over with typical calm.
Not long after, Russell worked his magic again, flinging a jaw-dropping pass wide to Sione Tuipulotu, who strolled over untouched. A hush fell over the clubhouse soon after as Huw Jones, a Canterbury junior turned international Lion, dotted down what looked like a glorious try… only for it to be ruled out for a double movement. Disappointment, yes, but pride in his performance? Overflowing. He looked sharp, dangerous, and right at home on one of rugby’s biggest stages.
The Lions kept up the pressure, and just before half-time, Tom Curry muscled over after a sustained siege inside the Aussie 22. Not long after the break, he was involved again, this time stealing a lineout and kickstarting the move that saw Dan Sheehan dive over in the corner for try number three.
Australia hit back late on with tries from Carlo Tizzano and Tate McDermott, giving the home side a flicker of hope, but in truth, this was the Lions’ day from the outset.
Throughout the morning, raffle tickets were flying off the bar for the chance to win a signed Huw Jones Lions shirt. At £10 a strip, it was definitely worth a punt, and with his name on everyone’s lips, it felt all the more special to have that chance. The winner will be drawn at the end of the final test, so stay tuned.
With one eye on the First Nations & Pasifika XV clash this Tuesday and the next Test looming in Melbourne next weekend, the series is poised perfectly. But for those of us back in Canterbury, the real story was watching one of our own wearing red.
From cub to Lion, we see you, Huw.
And we’ll be back next Saturday, plates full, hearts full, voices loud……and maybe I’ll buy another strip of raffle tickets.
The second test will be shown under cover on our outdoor screen due to a private event being held in the clubhouse from 11.30am. The outdoor bar will be open and serving for the match, and breakfast sandwiches will be served from the BBQ area for those who missed out on a Big Scrum.
It is probably worth booking a table ahead for breakfast. Tables can be booked in the clubhouse with the full menu. Last orders for pre match will be 10.30am.
Huw Jones

Huw Jones named in Lions starting XV for first test

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

We’re beaming with pride here at Canterbury RFC as former junior player Huw Jones has been named in the starting line-up for the British & Irish Lions’ opening Test against Australia this Saturday in Brisbane.

In a landmark moment for Scottish rugby, the Lions will field an all-Scottish 10-12-13 axis for the first time in history, with Finn Russell, Sione Tuipulotu, and Huw Jones forming the playmaking spine for Andy Farrell’s side.

For all of us in the Black and Amber family, seeing Huw reach this level is nothing short of inspirational. He spent his entire junior rugby career at Canterbury RFC, developing his skills, work ethic, and love for the game on the very same pitches many of our young players call home today.

From minis to the Lions, Huw’s journey is a proud reminder of what grassroots rugby can achieve. His selection isn’t just a personal triumph—it’s a moment of celebration for every coach, teammate, and supporter who played a part along the way.

Congratulations, Huw. We’ll be cheering you on loud and proud. Once Black and Amber, always Black and Amber.

2025 AGM Notice image

Notice of Annual General Meeting 2025

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy
Canterbury Rugby Club’s Annual General Meeting will take place on Tuesday 19th August 2025 at The Marine Travel Ground, with doors open from 7.00pm for a prompt 7.30pm start.
All members are warmly invited to attend and take part in this important annual tradition as we reflect on the 2024/25 season and hear first-hand what lies ahead for the club. Whether you’re a lifelong member or newly involved, this is your opportunity to stay informed and engaged in our shared journey as a club and community.
AGM Details
Venue: The Clubhouse, Merton Lane, Canterbury
Date: Tuesday 19th August 2025
Time: 7.00pm arrival for a 7.30pm start
Agenda Highlights
  • Apologies for absence
  • Approval of 2024 AGM minutes
  • Chairman’s report on the 2024/25 season
  • Financial report and approval of club accounts
  • To consider a resolution disapplying the provisions of the Cooperative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014, that the Membership of the Club represented at the AGM do not require an audit to be completed on the accounts for the year ended 30th May 2025, subject to confirmation at the meeting that the requirements are met
  • Election of officers for the 2025/26 season:
    • President – Pat Goode
    • Treasurer – Mike Dodd
    • Secretary – Sally Taylor
  • Appointment of Executive Committee members:
    • Youth Chair – Ky Campion (incoming)
    • Director of Rugby – Taff Gwilliam
    • Communications – Denys Andrianjafy
    • Commercial – Giles Hilton
    • Compliance – Dom Graham
    • Safeguarding – Chris Bull
  • Consideration of any proposed motions under Club Rule 8.5
  • Any other relevant matters for future Committee consideration (non-voting)
  • Appointment of new Chairman – John Halliday
Nominations & Motions
We welcome nominations and motions from members for the following roles:
  • Officers: President, Treasurer, Secretary
  • Executive Committee Members
  • Motions relating to Club Rules (in accordance with Rule 8.5)
All nominations and motions must be submitted in writing, proposed and seconded, and sent to the Club Secretary at:
secretary@cantrugby.co.uk
Deadline: Midnight, Sunday 27th July 2025
Financial Information
A full financial statement will be made available ahead of the meeting. If you would like a copy, please email the Secretary and it will be sent to you once available.
We hope to see as many of you as possible on the night. Come and hear directly from the Committee about how your club has progressed this year—and what the future holds. Your presence is always valued, and every voice strengthens the Black & Amber family.
Posted in AGM
Give it a go - Family Sports Day

Give it a Go! Free Family Sports Day

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Saturday 12 July 2025 | 10am – 4pm |The Marine Travel Ground

Get ready for a brilliant day of sport, fun, and community spirit as we host Give it a Go! – a completely free, action-packed family event designed to get young people moving and exploring new activities.

Whether you’re keen to pass a rugby ball, throw a punch in boxing, or give taekwondo a try, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With expert coaches and clubs on hand, it’s the perfect opportunity to try a new sport in a safe and welcoming environment.

Sports & Activities to Try:
Rugby | Football | Judo | Taekwondo | Boxing | Wrestling | Cricket | Wheelchair Rugby | Combat Archery | …and much more!

Open to all abilities, ages 4 to 18 – no experience needed, just bring your enthusiasm!

Plus:

  • Meet your local Blue Light services

  • Explore community safety, health, and well-being stalls

  • Tuck into tasty food & drink from our onsite vendors

Getting here is easy!
A free shuttle bus will run every 30 minutes from Canterbury Bus Station (stand D1) starting at 9.30am. The final return bus from the rugby club leaves at 4.30pm.

More info and FAQs:
canterburybid.co.uk/event/give-it-a-go-event-at-canterbury-rugby-club

Bring your mates, bring your family, and give it a go!

Bat and Trap

Still time to enter a team into one of Kent’s oldest sport

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Join the Bat & Trap Bash – Saturday 19th July 2025

Get ready for a summer showdown like no other as Canterbury Rugby Club hosts its much-loved Bat & Trap Tournament on Saturday 19th July – and we want you in on the action!

Whether you’re a seasoned slinger of the bat or just in it for the banter, this is your chance to get a team together, enjoy a day in the sun, and raise money for two fantastic causes – Kent MS Therapy Centre and Canterbury Rugby Club.

How it works

  • Teams of 6

  • £100 per team

  • 12pm start at The Marine Travel Ground

  • Music, food, and family-friendly fun all day long!

Expect a festival atmosphere with live DJs, mouth-watering food from Scrum Kitchen, and an ice cream truck on hand to keep things cool.

It’s not just about the sport – it’s about the spirit. So rally your mates, pick a witty team name, and get involved in a proper Canterbury tradition.

Spaces are limited, so don’t wait! Book your team today by emailing:
fundraising@kentmstc.org

Seven Points

Sun, celebration, and Seven Points

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

No rugby? No problem. The summer is still sparkling.

There may be no scrums at The Marine Travel Ground right now, but that doesn’t mean you can’t raise a glass to the season (or the sunshine!).

Reach for a glass of Seven Points,  our very own sparkling Rosé, crafted just a drop-kick from the clubhouse using the finest Kent-grown grapes. A balanced blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, it’s a light pink fizz that’s as good for summer relaxing as it is for celebrating a cup final.

Fresh, elegant, and full of flavour – this is a try-worthy wine made to toast the big moments on and off the field.

Perfect for:
Garden BBQs
Graduation cheers
Post-training treats
Missing-matchday pick-me-ups

Available now from Canterbury RFC:

£30 per bottle (sold in cases of 6)

Collection only

Dean Martin, - Southeastern, Alice Hayward - CRFC, Nathan Morris - CRFC

CRFC partners with Southeastern to deliver safety and wellbeing programme

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

We’re delighted to announce a new community partnership between Canterbury Rugby Football Club and Southeastern Railway.

This exciting collaboration will bring Southeastern’s Trackside Safety Programme to our wider rugby family, with a series of self-development days taking place across the season. Delivered to members of CRFC and Canterbury ACE, these sessions will explore key themes around safety, wellbeing, and education, using the power of sport as a catalyst for personal growth and community learning.

Sport changes lives, and we believe this initiative is a brilliant example of rugby’s role beyond the pitch.

Keep an eye out for our club posters and a signed CRFC match shirt in the ticket hall at Canterbury East station in the coming months – and join us in supporting this fantastic initiative!

Pilgrims set sights on another strong campaign in Regional 2 South East

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

After securing back-to-back promotions in the past two seasons, our Pilgrims (2nd XV) are ready to take on new challenges in the 2025/26 Regional 2 South East league.

With momentum and confidence behind them, the squad will be looking to continue their on-field success and make their mark in this highly competitive division. With a blend of returning players and emerging talent pushing through, the season promises plenty of exciting rugby for our supporters.

Here’s the full fixture list for the campaign — get these dates in your diary and come and get behind the boys in Black & Amber!

2025/26 Pilgrims Fixtures – Regional 2 South East

  • 06-Sep-25 – Canterbury II v Battersea Ironsides (H)

  • 13-Sep-25 – Horsham v Canterbury II (A)

  • 20-Sep-25 – Canterbury II v Gravesend (H)

  • 04-Oct-25 – Canterbury II v Brighton (H)

  • 11-Oct-25 – Bromley v Canterbury II (A)

  • 18-Oct-25 – Canterbury II v Dartfordians (H)

  • 25-Oct-25 – O. Reigatians v Canterbury II (A)

  • 08-Nov-25 – Canterbury II v O. Colfeians (H)

  • 22-Nov-25 – Sidcup v Canterbury II (A)

  • 29-Nov-25 – Canterbury II v Sutton & Epsom (H)

  • 06-Dec-25 – Beckenham v Canterbury II (A)

  • 13-Dec-25 – Canterbury II v Horsham (H)

  • 20-Dec-25 – Gravesend v Canterbury II (A)

  • 10-Jan-26 – Brighton v Canterbury II (A)

  • 17-Jan-26 – Canterbury II v Bromley (H)

  • 31-Jan-26 – Dartfordians v Canterbury II (A)

  • 14-Feb-26 – Canterbury II v O. Reigatians (H)

  • 28-Feb-26 – O. Colfeians v Canterbury II (A)

  • 07-Mar-26 – Canterbury II v Sidcup (H)

  • 21-Mar-26 – Sutton & Epsom v Canterbury II (A)

  • 28-Mar-26 – Canterbury II v Beckenham (H)

  • 11-Apr-26 – Battersea Ironsides v Canterbury II (A)

Stay tuned for match previews, results, and updates throughout the season — and as always, thank you for your fantastic support.