Finally, the 2026/27 season is here, having endured the hottest, longest pre-season I can remember. We have three very competitive senior teams selected this weekend, and all are champing at the bit to get started.
Our final week of preparation has been a real highlight, with Wales Assistant Coach Danny Wilson running the Tuesday session and sharpening the skills, a different voice calling, directing the action. Thursday team run involved a bit of touch rugby on the roof of the new development before the serious business of team runs with the lads flicking oil. I could not be more excited for the whistle to start.
Before that, let’s take a moment; there’s a wonderful atmosphere in the senior playing squad, great competition and quality on display fighting for selection, but continual support and communication being shown and development of the squad’s cohesion.
This doesn’t happen by accident and is a credit to our coaching team and the wider supporting elements: fitness, physio, the 4th Official Team. Our selection this summer has been careful and considered; on the back of such a wonderful 150th season, it was important to strengthen without breaking what clearly binds us.
Exciting players have joined us not only for their skill set but also for their character and attitude. When we are in a dark place, wet and mud-coated, it is heart that pulls us through, with the team and teammates' interests at the forefront of actions.
Step back again, take a moment to view the pitch, our Rec and the dedication of the ground team, “The Rainmakers”. The league start has been pushed back due to the poor state of the pitches. It is therefore even more incredible what these guys have achieved, putting their souls into it.
We are currently working hard to resolve issues on the remainder of the Rec, working with NSC and Glendale; it is a constant demanding task. The rugby team grows bigger.
MJ&R Section continues to grow; success breeds success, and we welcome the U7s and 8s tomorrow for a pre-match training session with first team players. A new initiative the team have introduced should see 60+ parents and carers at the club on Saturday, alongside 30 young players. The Roses move forward from strength to strength, and this year we have a fantastic colts section whose early trial matches have been very positive.
Saturdays only really work when a full team operates off the pitch, from the kitchen to the bar. We welcome back old faces and new ones to two very supportive professional teams.
This leads me on to our Board, all volunteers giving their time freely for the Club, and I have to say all pulling it in the same direction. It is through their support and commitment that decisions around the senior game can be made and actioned.
The same is true for the MJ&Rs, allowing the continued development. One eye is on the now; the other steadfast on the development and long-term goals. Our sponsors, from PPA, Howards, and Studio Hive to the multitude of smaller commercial contributors, are a further strength and are excited to be part of the team.
There is you, our supporters, the final element of the team. This year is going to be challenging and exciting; we have a fit, skilful and motivated squad that will bring the dog tomorrow. As we do the same as hundreds of others across the country, kicking off a wonderful game, let's show our quality and values, and provide uncompromising support alongside respect for our opposition. Engage, talk, host -we are all Weston-super-Mare RFC. Take a moment to look at the badge and what it means to you.
I could not be prouder of our club and of you, and it is an honour to represent it.
If you have any questions, please come and find me; discussion is best face-to-face.
Chin out,
Mark Matthews, Director of Rugby
