Congratulations to our March 300 Club Winners
148 x Mike Derbyshire
37 x. J M Edmondson
211 x Naz Kaliq
59 x Peter Hermitage
83 x Trevor Martin
Author: Denys Andrianjafy
Around the Ground at the MTG
What a fantastic Super Saturday that was! All home games resulted in Canterbury victories with our 1st XV scoring 19 unanswered points in the first half, and building an unassailable lead to take the victory, despite Guernsey fighting back. Frank Reynolds remains this season’s highest points scorer in National 2 East. Canterbury Women stretched their winning streak to 4 games with an impressive victory over the Guernsey Raiders Ladies. The MTG rang with the strains of “We are the champions!”, winning Counties 1 Kent after their victory over Ashford 1st XV made all the sweeter as they achieved this with two games remaining. The Amber & Black were not finished there, Canons delivered our third home win, dominating over Ashford 2nd XV leaving them in touch and with a shot at the Counties 5 Kent league title. Our Mini & Youth continue to represent us well with 6 of our youths being selected to represent Kent U20’s versus Hampshire last week and running our 17 – 3 winners. Congratulations to Stan Bull, Max Campbell, Max McCormack, Hector Valldares, Brett Smith and Harrison Fermor on their selection. Mention also goes to Charlie Barker on his securing a 2-year contract with the Saracens. A fantastic achievement all round, showing the quality of our younger players coming through the ranks. Read more about their achievements on our News page.
Last weekend’s scores
Saturday
1st XV 33 – 19 Guernsey Raiders 1st XV
CRFC Women 41 – 5 Guernsey Raiders Ladies
Pilgrims 28 – 18 Ashford 1st XV
Ashford 2nd XV 7 – 62 Canons
Thanet 2nds HWO Deacons
Thanet 3rds 0 v 40 Zingari
Sunday
Colts B v Beckenham MATCH CANCELLED
U14’s 57 – 5 Dartfordians
GAS 26 – 15 U14’s Girls
U13’s 60 – 0 Bromley MATCH 1
U13’s 20 – 30 Bromley MATCH 2
U12’s 0 v 5 Ashford U12’s
Girls U12’s – Tournament winners
This weekend’s fixtures and training
Saturday
Old Albanian v Ist XV – Away KO 3.00pm
Bromley v Pilgrims – Away KO 3.00pm
Canons v Bromley 2nds – Home KO 3.00pm
Deacons v Rye – Home KO 3.00pm
Zingari v Vigo 2nds – Home KO 3.00pm
Sunday
U12’s v Sevenoaks – Home Bottom Orchard
U13’s v Dover – Home Top Pitch
Cranbrook v U13’s – Away
U14’s v Westcliff – Home Langton Artificial Pitch
U16’s v Tunbridge Wells and Blackheath – Away
Mini & Youth Training
Mini’s Training 9.00am – 10:30am
U6’s – Grids
U7’s – Grids
U8’s and U9’s – Top Orchard
U10’s – Bottom Orchard
U11’s – Langton Artificial Pitch
Youth Training from 10:30am
U15’s – Top Orchard
Girl’s – Training Pitch
We would like to extend a warm welcome to all the visiting supporters, clubs, and teams
Varsity
It’s that time again! Friday 22nd March, Canterbury Christ Church University take on University of Kent for the Varsity honours. Entry is strictly ticket only and can be purchased from the Canterbury Varsity website.
Fantasy 6 Nations result
The dust has settled, and I suspect St Patrick’s Day was celebrated with some fervour. The result we are really interested in though is who won the Fantasy League? Well, it was me (Ed.) Much though I would love to join our Club President at his table for the Partners Lunch, I would like to offer the place to Joel who has placed second overall. Please contact me at [email protected] for details of how you can claim your prize.
Save the date!
24th May 2024 – The May Ball
It’s time to mark your calendars because the Canterbury Rugby Club May Ball is BACK! That’s right, it’s the event of the year, and you’re all invited to join in on the shenanigans.
We’ve got a night jam-packed with everything you could ever want: delicious grub, flowing drinks, the ultimate strike-a-pose photobooth, super-fast dodgems and enough laughter to shake the rafters. Whether you’re a dance floor diva or a social butterfly, there’s something for everyone at the May Ball.
Now, here’s the kicker: we’ve got tables up for grabs, and trust us, you’re going to want in on this action. Round up your squad, your teammates, your partners-in-crime, and snag yourselves a spot at the coolest table in town.
But wait, there’s more! By snagging a table, you’re not just ensuring a night of unforgettable fun – you’re also showing some serious love for our beloved Canterbury Rugby Club. It’s a win-win, folks!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your mates, grab your tickets, and let’s paint the town black and amber together at the May Ball!
3-Course Dinner, Dancing, auction, Raffle, Dodgems, Games – £80 per head.
6.30pm for Dinner at 7.30pm – Black tie – Carriages at 1.00am
For table reservations or any burning questions, contact Kirsty at [email protected].
Get ready to boogie, folks and we’ll see you on the dance floor!
We wish you all the best of rugby weekends!
From CRFC to Saracens
Great news for Canterbury Colts 2nd row Charlie Barker who has signed a two year professional contract with Saracens. He is the Colts 3rd second row and 4th player to sign a Sarries contract in three years. It speaks volumes for our youth players coming through the club.
we congratulate Charlie and look forward to watching his progression.
Around the Ground at the MTG
What a weekend of rugby that was! Our 1st XV rediscovered their winning ways, whilst Canons and our Women were dominant in their games. Unfortunately, the Pilgrims unbeaten season came to an end, but they still sit comfortably at the top of Counties 1 Kent and look to their next opponents, Ashford 1st XV. Our juniors put in a fantastic shift, and even though our U16 Girls were overpowered by Bass, they fought hard and showed great future promise for a newly formed team.
Last weekend’s scores
Saturday
1st XV 41 – 12 North Walsham
Crowborough 27 – 7 Pilgrims
Canons 41 – 27 Sevenoaks 3rds
Sunday
Canterbury Women 22 – 7 Tonbridge Juddians Ladies
Colts 51 – 7 Aylesford
U16’s Girls 27 – 57 Bass
U15’s 35 – 5 Tonbridge Juddians
U14’s 38 – 0 Sevenoaks
U13’s v Old Allaynians – MATCH CALLED OFF
This weekend’s fixtures and training
Saturday
Canterbury Women v Guernsey Ladies – Home Langton Grass Pitch KO 12.00pm
1st XV v Guernsey 1st XV – Home KO 2.00pm
Pilgrims v Ashford – Home KO 3.00pm
Ashford II v Canons – Away KO 3.00pm
Thanet 2nds v Deacons – Away KO 3.00pm
Thanet 3rds v Zingari – Away KO 3.00pm
Sunday
Colts B v Beckenham Langton Artificial Pitch – KO 10.30am till 1.00pm
U14’s v Dartfordians Top Pitch – KO 11:00am
U13’s v Bromley Bottom Orchard – 9.00am till 11.00am
Girls – Away at Ashford
Minis away at mini festivals across Kent
Mini & Youth Training
U6’s grids – 9.00am till 10.00am
U12’s training Langton Artificial Pitch – 9.00am till 10.30am
U15’s Langton Artificial Pitch – 11:30am till 1.00pm
U16’s Top Pitch or Langton Artificial Pitch – 9.00am till 10.30am
We would like to extend a warm welcome to all the visiting supporters, clubs, and teams.
6 Nations round 5
It’s the 5th and final of the 6 Nations, and it’s all about who wins the title and who is awarded the wooden spoon. England denied Ireland their 3rd Grand Slam on the bounce whilst reviving their title shot hopes if they manage a bonus point victory over France. Ireland remain favourites, though they need to avoid defeat to Scotland. How will winless Wales fare in the wooden spoon battle against Italy who are fresh from their memorable win over Scotland?
It is certainly going to be an entertaining Super Saturday, especially as we have three home senior matches being played at the MTG. Cheer them in the field, then come and cheer your teams on in the clubhouse where we will be showing all the 6 Nations games on our screens. The bar will be open, food will be served and there is also talk of music! What more can you ask for?
If you are playing in our Fantasy 6 Nations league, don’t forget to set your team for the final round. It looks like your Around the Ground at the MTG Editor won the last round, but it’s all to play for. This is the big one, a seat at the President’s table at the Partners Lunch goes to the overall competition winner. Don’t let it be me, I’m on a diet (Ed.)!
Super Saturday
Wales v Italy – KO 2.15pm
Ireland v Scotland – KO 4.45pm
Wales v England KO 8.00pm
The clubhouse bar will be open from 11.00am
Saracens V Harlequins
We are taking a coach up to The Showdown 4 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium where Saracens take on Harlequins following their 36 – 24 win in last year’s clash. We do not have any match tickets available, but we do have 16 seats available for those who have and want to avoid a three change train journey. The cost is £16 return per person, leaving from the MTG at 10.25am 23rd March, returning 8.45pm – Contact [email protected] to book your seats.
We wish you all the best of rugby weekends!
Celebrating Triumphs: A Joyful Journey in Girls’ Rugby at Canterbury Rugby Club
Hello, everyone! As the Girls Section Manager at Canterbury Rugby Club, I’m excited to share the incredible strides we’ve made in girls’ rugby this International Women’s Day. Our focus has been on creating a vibrant and inclusive space, and the positivity and growth are truly something to celebrate.
Personal Perspective:
Being part of this journey has been immensely rewarding. Witnessing the enthusiasm and talent emerging from our girls is a joy. Personally, it’s heartening to see the positive impact we’re making. The passion and camaraderie among the players are infectious, fueling my commitment to cultivating a thriving environment for girls in rugby.
Club’s Vibrant Commitment:
Canterbury Rugby Club is buzzing with positivity and energy. Our commitment to girls’ rugby is not just about playing the game but fostering an environment where every girl feels valued and supported. The enthusiasm and spirit within the club are contagious, creating a vibrant community that transcends the boundaries of the pitch.
Embracing Cultural Shifts:
We’re not just changing the game; we’re changing the culture. Canterbury Rugby Club has become a hub of positivity, challenging norms and embracing inclusivity. It’s inspiring to witness the cultural shifts taking place within the club, where every girl is encouraged to thrive and showcase her unique talents.
Acknowledging Triumphs:
Let’s take a moment to celebrate our triumphs. The progress we’ve made in girls’ rugby has elevated the entire club’s atmosphere. We’re fostering a sense of empowerment, encouraging girls to pursue their passion for rugby with confidence. Each success, whether big or small, is a testament to the positive transformation happening at Canterbury Rugby Club.
Looking Forward:
As we bask in the joy of our achievements, we also look forward to an even brighter future. Our focus remains on creating a space where positivity flourishes, talent thrives, and every girl feels empowered. This International Women’s Day, let’s revel in the positivity we’ve cultivated and continue shaping a vibrant and inclusive future for girls in rugby at Canterbury Rugby Club. Cheers to more triumphs ahead!
Around the Ground at the MTG
Last weekend turned into a washout, with all senior fixtures bar the Deacons being called off due to pitch conditions, and the Zingari having to call off their game because they couldn’t raise a team. Player recruitment into our 5ths team is becoming increasingly a challenge. An open invitation has gone out to all who have played and want to get back in the game, or those who are playing and want to get involved in some social games contact Colin Scurr at [email protected], and you may well get a run out with the team.
Last weekend’s scores
Saturday
Crowborough v Pilgrims – Match postponed
Canons (3rds) v Sevenoaks Match postponed
Aylesford 2 47 – 7 Deacons
Leigh 1 HWO Zingari
Colts A 27 – 17 Sidcup
This weekend’s fixtures and training
Saturday
1st XV v North Walsham – Home KO 3.00pm
Crowborough v Pilgrims – Away KO 3.00pm
Canons v Sevenoaks 3rds – Home KO 3.00pm
Sunday
Canterbury Women v Tonbridge Juddians Ladies – Home KO 3.00pm
Colts v Aylesford – Home KO 11.00am Main Pitch
U16’s Girls v Bass – Home KO 11.00am Bottom Orchard
U15’s v TJ’s – Home KO 11.00am Langton Artificial Pitch
U14’s v Sevenoaks – Home KO 11.00am Top Pitch
Mini & Youth Training
U6’s and 7’s Grids
U8’s and 9’s Langton Artificial Pitch 9 till 10.30am
U10’s bottom Orchard 9 till 10.30am
U11’s Top Orchard, 9 till 10.30am
U12’s Training 9.00am till 10.30am Training Pitch.
We would like to extend a warm welcome to all the visiting supporters, clubs, and teams.
6 Nations round 4
Its round 4 of the 6 Nations. As ever, we invite you all to come and watch the games with us at the clubhouse where we will be showing the games on all of our screens.
If you are playing in our Fantasy 6 Nations league, don’t forget to set your team. Can anyone knock Squeeky off his perch this round?
Saturday
Italy v Scotland – KO 2.15pm
England v Ireland – KO 4.45pm
Sunday
Wales v France KO 3.00pm
We wish you all the best of rugby weekends!
A partnership for the community
Canterbury Rugby Club is very lucky to have strong links with the business community, which allows us to grow our reach further than our home ground, taking sport to the wider community, giving an opportunity and access to those who do not have the means, thought sport wasn’t for them, did not think they could participate, or just didn’t know how to get involved.
Led by Nathan Morris, Head of Player Pathway, our Community Department has been working hard within East Kent taking sport to all. These activities have been made possible by the by the relationships that have been forged with companies like b&m, a leading construction consultancy company based in the South East of England. From our first meeting it was clear to see that our community vision aligned with theirs and that their involvement with Canterbury Rugby Club would turn into a partnership.
Paul Duffy, b&m Business Development Manager, remarked that “by increasing the accessibility of rugby to children, b&m and CRFC could inspire young athletes, promote active lifestyles and foster a lifelong love of rugby. Playing rugby does not only have physical benefits for the children, but also educates them about teamwork and respect, which are values the b&m community strongly believe in.”
b&m are already looking to next year and at how they can continue to work with us, as the Community Department seeks to increase our presence, with satellite centres in Sandwich, Faversham, and Ashford, whilst also increasing their presence in primary schools in East Kent.
The continued expansion of the program has the goal of increasing the numbers of girls and children with special needs and disabilities to the sport, to develop future teams within the club. Lead Coach, Alice Hayward, will help develop children’s emotional regulation and social understanding through the power of sport.
We are proud to have b&m on board with us on our community journey.
Around the Ground at the MTG
It was a tough weekend for our senior teams. Friday Night Lights was again a success, with a good number of supporters cheering on both teams. Unfortunately, the Deacons were not able to prevent Snowdown from completing the double over them. Frank Morgan ran out for his 100th cap for the 1st XV, and despite being in the lead at half time, they could not build on it and let the home team get away from them through some costly mistakes and unanswered Westcombe tries. Our youth teams fared better with some big wins and fantastic rugby played by our rising stars. Special mention goes to Jake Robinson, Joe Fraser, Fin Akhurst, and Barney Burden for good shifts representing the U13’s.
Last weekend’s scores
1st XV 27 – 14 Westcombe Park
Deacons 13 – 31 Snowdown 1st XV
Maidstone 2nds 40 – 0 Zingari
Colts 1 26 – 33 TJ’s
Colts 2 22 – 19 TJ’s
U16’s 59 – 31 Bromley
U15’s 38 – 17 Sevenoaks
U14’s 45 – 5 Vigo U14/U15’s
U13’S 30 – 0 Aylesford A
U13’S 35 – 25 Whitstable A
U12’s Spitfires 60 – 5 Old Gravesendians
U12’s Hurricanes 45 – 20 TJ’s
This weekend’s fixtures and training
Saturday
Crowborough v Pilgrims – Away KO 3.00pm
Canons* (3rd XV) v Sevenoaks – Home Main Pitch KO 3.00pm
Aylesford 2nd XV v Deacons – Away KO 3.00pm
Leigh v Zingari – Away KO 3.00pm
*Please note that our 3rd XV has now been renamed Canons to align with the Pilgrims, Deacons, and Cardinals.
Sunday
Colts v Sidcup – Away
U16’s v Deal and Betteshanger – Home Langton artificial pitch KO from 9.00am
U15’s v Blackheath – Away
U15’s v Gravesend – Home Langton artificial pitch KO 11.00am
U14’s v Bromley – Away
U13’s v Maidstone – Home Bottom Orchard KO from 10.00am
U12’s v OE’s – Home Top Orchard KO from 10.00am
U12’s v Saffron Walden – Home Top Orchard KO from 10.00am
U10’s Richmond Festival – Away
U7’s,8’s,9’s and 11’s v Ashford – Away
Mini & Youth Training
U6’s Training Grids
We would like to extend a warm welcome to all the visiting supporters, clubs, and teams.
City Lunch
Just a reminder that we still have places available at our March 7th City Lunch, with our guest speaker Kelly Brown sharing insights and experiences from his illustrious rugby career. As a former Scotland international and seasoned professional, Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on the game that is sure to captivate our audience. Come and enjoy a delicious meal with fellow club members and the wider rugby community. Contact [email protected] for details and to book. Tables of 10 – 12, £70 per person. Don’t miss out on this fantastic event.
6 Nations round 3
Congratulations to Matthew ‘Squeeky’ Pinnick for winning round 3 of our Fantasy 6 Nations Competition. Can you carry it through to the next round?
300 Club
Congratulations to our February winners!
97 x Charlie Coleman
47 x Chris Fullbrook
89 x Richard Cripps
4 x Matthew Pinnick
125 x Peter Giles
We wish you all the best of rugby weekends!
Around the Ground at the MTG
A weekend of mixed fortunes and what could have beens. The 1st XV pushed hard against National 2’s second placed team and looked like they were going to get something out of the game, but Barnes dug in and showed why they are chasing the league leaders. Pilgrims continue their unbeaten run with an impressive win over Charlton Park. Canterbury Women again put in a magnificent shift to dominate Pulborough Women. It was fantastic to see Canterbury Hellfire host their own tournament and massive thanks must go to Canterbury College (EKC) for allowing the club the use of their facilities. Our U12’s and U14’s put in a good shift, with the U14’s having to reschedule their fixture against Gravesend at the last minute and finding a game with Thanet Wanderers. 3 fantastic trys by Jonson Foster and Isaac Little’s immaculate boot secured a big win for the team.
Weekend scores
1st XV 20 – 29 Barnes
Pilgrims 60 – 12 Charlton Park
Pulborough Women 12 – 33 Canterbury Women
Hellfire Tournament
Game 1: Brighton Buccaneers 22 – 11 Canterbury Hellfire
Game 2: Berkshire Banshees 21 – 19 Canterbury Hellfire
Game 3: Canterbury Hellfire 11 – 27 Stoke Mandeville Maulers
U12’s 50 – 20 Cranbrook
U14’s 52 – 0 Thanet Wanderers
Fixtures and Training
Friday Night Lights
Deacons v Snowdown 1st XV – KO 6.30pm
** Bar open and BBQ from 5.30pm **
Saturday
1st XV v Westcombe Park – Away KO 2.00pm
This will be a milestone game for Frank Morgan, as this game will be his 100th Canterbury appearance.
Maidstone 2nds v Zingari – Away KO 2.30pm
Sunday
U12’s Spitfires v Old Gravesendians – Away
U12’s Hurricanes v TJ’s – Away
U13’S v Aylesford – Home Bottom Orchard KO 11.00am
U14’s v Vigo – Away
U15’s v Sevenoaks – Home Langton STP from 10.00am
U16’s v Bromley – Away
Colts 1 & 2 v TJ’s – Away
Mini & Youth Training
U6’S grids 9.00am -10.00am
U7’s and 8’s Langton STP 9.00am – 10.00am
U9’s and U10’s Top Orchard 9.00am – 10.30am
U11’s Bottom Orchard 9.00am – 10.30am
We would like to extend a warm welcome to all the visiting supporters, clubs, and teams.
City Lunch
Just a reminder that we still have places available at our March 7th City Lunch, with our guest speaker Kelly Brown sharing insights and experiences from his illustrious rugby career. As a former Scotland international and seasoned professional, Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on the game that is sure to captivate our audience. Come and enjoy a delicious meal with fellow club members and the wider rugby community. Contact [email protected] for details and to book. Tables of 10 – 12, £70 per person. Don’t miss out on this fantastic event.
6 Nations round 3
With England and Ireland the only nations still in the hunt for the grand slam, it will certainly be a great weekend of rugby. Come and watch with us in the clubhouse and enjoy a beer and a burger for £10!
Saturday
Ireland v Wales – KO 2.15pm
Scotland v England – KO 4.45pm
Sunday
France v Italy – KO 3.00pm
The clubhouse bar will be open from 12.30pm both days.
We wish you all the best of rugby weekends!
Around the ground at the MTG
It was a weekend of ups and downs. We celebrated those who won and commiserated with those who didn’t, but as one club, we ready ourselves to go again.
Weekend scores
Dorking 42 – 22 1st XV
Dartfordians 1st XV 36 – 51 Pilgrims
Deacons 41 – 5 Folkestone 2nds
Weavering 36 – 35 Zingari
Canterbury Women 38 – 8 Dartford Valley Roses
Colts 1 14 – 19 TJ’s
U16’s 12 – 19 Thurrock
U13’s 40 – 5 Sevenoaks
The Pilgrims maintain their grip at the top of Counties 1 Kent and continue their so far unbeaten season. Canterbury Women looked strong and dominant against Dartford Valley Roses. The Zingari battled like true warriors only to fall short by the slightest of margins, but they pushed until the final whistle. Special mention goes to the U13’s 2nd team who travelled to Sevenoaks the weekend before, beating the home team 20 – 35 with James Trott earning a mention in despatches for his outstanding contribution.
Fixtures and Training
Saturday
1st XV v Barnes – KO 3.00pm – Main Pitch
Pilgrims v Charlton Park – KO 2.30pm – Langton Grass Pitch
Entrance to 1st XV game £10.00 without a valid membership card
Clubhouse bar open and food available
Sunday
Pulborough Women v Canterbury Women – KO 2.30pm
Hellfire Tournament – EKC Canterbury College, from midday
U15’s v Barking – Away
U14’s v Gravesend, top pitch – KO 10.30am
U12’s v Cranbrook Langton STP – KO 10.30am
Minis v Cranbrook – Away
Mini & Youth Training
U6’s – Grids 9.00am till 10.00am
U13’s – Lower Orchard, 10.00am
U16 and U17’s joint training, Langton STP 11.30am till 1.00pm
We would like to extend a warm welcome to all the visiting clubs and teams.
City Lunch
We still have places available at our March 7th City Lunch, with our guest speaker Kelly Brown sharing insights and experiences from his illustrious rugby career. As a former Scotland international and seasoned professional, Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on the game that is sure to captivate our audience. Come and enjoy a delicious meal with fellow club members and the wider rugby community. Contact [email protected] for details and to book. Tables of 10 – 12, £70 per person.