Welcome to Clifton Park, the home of Rugby Union in York, and where this season and next year in particular will prove to be one of the great years in the clubs history. As a combined force with Cricket, Squash and Tennis the plans are passed and we aim for a new Clubhouse in 2008.

There has been a significant amount of work undertaken during the off season. The arrival of a major new sponsor, Steve Davis of Grantside has made a huge commitment to York RUFC and we are delighted and proud that Grantside have pinned their colours to our mast. Carter Jonas, Yamato and Langleys have also made a massive contribution and York RUFC are very grateful for their support.

We welcome our new senior squad coach Ken Higgins. Ken has made a great start at the club with a gruelling pre season training programme. Ken has come from coaching at Whatley Hills for three years, and had a distinguished playing career at Wakefield and Headingley. Welcome Ken.

York RUFC have a new Captain, John Sharp takes over the role this season. We wish John and his team well this season as North Est 2 will be very competitive and York RUFC have got a challenging start to the season. Rob Allen, Mark Gronnow and Tim Godson will captain the respective, seconds, thirds and fourths.

York RUFC will also have a new website which I hope everyone will visit and use on a regular basis. A lot of effort has been put into building the site – so everyone young and old can find it an easy to access, user friendly site.

We have also reintroduced the role of Match Day Manager on Saturdays, we are covered for all First and Thirds home games and some Seconds / Fourths – but it has been very encouraging to see people rallying to the call, my thanks to you all.

The Management Team has also introduced a new shirt, which is a break with our hoops, but is a modern shirt which will take off in a more commercial sense over the coming years. We have also changed the programme cover to convey the commitment and passion that is required to wear the York RUFC shirt.

Most of all this year, we will be working very closely indeed with the Youth and Junior section. Under the Chairmanship of Rob Snook, the lifeline of York RUFC is in great hands. Rob has a massive logistical issue with space and the amount of youngsters wanting to play rugby at York RUFC, it is to his great credit and to that of his excellent Management Team that our Youth Section continues to thrive. I wish Rob, his Managers and Coach’s and all our Junior Section all the very best for a great season.

Finally, welcome to all our visitors to Clifton Park, I hope you enjoy your visit whether its to watch, play, or have a drink – we are delighted you have come to see us at Clifton Park.

Yours in rugby

Niall Barry
Chairman – York RUFC 2007/08