Woodbridge Warriors vs March Bears
The 1XV Woodbridge Warriors head to March to play against the March Bears – a road trip indeed but the support, as always, will always be welcome and set to be a great game!!
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A great opportunity for those that want to challenge themselves by our Ambassador team – Northampton Saints – Friday 1st November and open to ages 6 – 16….
The U11s embarked on an exciting road trip on Saturday, 28th September, to compete in the prestigious Defender Cup, hosted at none other than the Northampton Saints Rugby Ground. With 16 teams from across the region and nationwide participating, it was an incredible opportunity for the young players of Woodbridge to test themselves against some top-tier competition. From the moment they stepped onto the field, it was clear that this was going to be a day to remember.
Woodbridge demonstrated immense teamwork throughout the tournament, with each player contributing to the group’s overall success. Every pass, tackle, and try was the result of a collective effort. Instead, they played with a strong sense of unity, embodying the true spirit of rugby—a sport where every player is essential to the team’s performance. This approach was key to their dominance in the group stage, where they won all their matches, conceding only 1 try right in the last 3 minute of their last match!. Their disciplined style of play, relentless energy, and support for one another made them a formidable side.
However, the Defender Cup isn’t just about victories on the scoreboard. In line with the Rugby Football Union’s (RFU) values, the competition is judged on the five core principles known as TREADS: Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, and Sportsmanship. These values are at the heart of the game and are equally, if not more important, than the number of tries scored or matches won. Woodbridge’s U11 team took these values to heart, displaying them in every game they played. Whether it was offering a hand to an opponent after a hard tackle, encouraging one another on the field, or maintaining discipline during tight moments, the U11s consistently showcased the spirit of the sport.
Their commitment to these values didn’t go unnoticed. Coach Ian Bowley was named with the prestigious ‘Coach of the Day’ award, a testament to the dedication and guidance he has provided to this group of young players, who is excellently supported by Tom, Martin, Nathan and Tom. His leadership, both on and off the pitch, helps cultivate a culture of respect and teamwork. While winning games is always a thrill, for the Woodbridge U11s, having their coach recognized for instilling the right principles in his team was an even greater victory, it’s a proud moment when a coach’s efforts are acknowledged, and the award is a reflection of not only Ian and the coaches hard work but also the collective ethos of the entire squad.
The day wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of the parents and guardians, who made the journey to Northampton to cheer on the team. Their enthusiasm from the sidelines created an atmosphere that fueled the players’ determination to perform at their best. The sense of community that surrounds this group is evident—parents, players, and coaches all coming together to create lasting memories and learning experiences.
After their own matches had concluded, the young Warriors had the special treat of watching the Northampton Saints take on Exeter Chiefs in what was a thrilling encounter. Witnessing professional rugby players compete at such a high level was an inspiring experience for the team, giving them a glimpse of where hard work and dedication can lead. Along with all other teams from the mornings tournament, they were all paraded round the pitch during half term, allowing them to soak up the atmosphere from the the pitchside, which perhaps one day, they may experience for the real deal!
For many of the U11s, this was likely a moment they’ll never forget—watching their idols in action and seeing the same core values of teamwork and sportsmanship they strive for every week on display in a professional match.
As the final whistle blew, and with some of the team heading home, a few determined players stayed behind, eager to collect autographs from their new rugby heroes. It was the perfect end to an already incredible day—an opportunity to meet the players they had cheered for and who had, in turn, shown them the professional level of the game.
But at the end of the day, the real heroes were our very own U11 players. They displayed fantastic sportsmanship, skill, and, above all, a deep sense of camaraderie that made each and every one of them a winner. The team’s performance, both in terms of their results and their attitude on the field, is something they can be truly proud of.
A special thank you to A. Johnson for perfectly capturing the essence of the day and summing up the shared pride of everyone involved with this short video. The Defender Cup may be over, but the lessons and experiences will stay with these young players for many years to come.
The Wins!!
7-0 Old Scouts
6-0 Bugbrooke
3-0 Olney
4-0 Wellingborough
7-1 Biecester
It was a classic tale of David vs Goliath on a brisk Saturday afternoon as Woodbridge 1XV travelled two long, arduous hours to Wisbech, home of the hulking giants sitting atop the Counties 2 Eastern Counties, London & SE Division. Woodbridge, boasting a team that could generously be described as “patchwork,” featuring everything from wide-eyed debutants to wily veterans with more bruises than an overripe banana, prepared to face their toughest challenge yet. With a long injury list and players conveniently “unavailable” (perhaps hiding at the local pub), the odds were stacked higher than Wisbech’s 25-stone prop.
First Half: The Slumbering Giant Awakens
The game started like an episode of “World’s Strongest Man,” with Wisbech’s enormous pack thundering down the field, leaving Woodbridge’s valiant defenders looking like toddlers in the path of a steamroller. Their behemoth of a prop, seemingly built from pure protein shakes and kettlebells, barrelled over for the first try. Wisbech’s scrum-half coolly slotted the conversion from the sidelines, and it looked like Goliath had brought his A-game. 7-0 Wisbech.
But Woodbridge weren’t about to roll over. Staring down their giant opponents, they decided it was time to show that size isn’t everything. From the restart, Woodbridge’s Eddie Johnson pounced like a hungry cat at a buffet, stealing possession from Wisbech’s oversized forwards. Some quick hands and a silky offload from Sam Jackson set up Jake Hately to bulldoze through the Wisbech centres. Although dragged down just shy of the try line, Woodbridge won a penalty, and Tom Morris sent the ball soaring between the posts. 7-3.
Wisbech, visibly confused by Woodbridge’s defiance (and perhaps wondering if they’d accidentally switched sports), responded with another try out wide, though this time their kicker must have been dreaming of post-match burgers as the conversion sailed wide. 12-3.
Woodbridge refused to back down, earning another penalty after some agricultural tackling from Wisbech’s forwards. Once again, Tom Morris coolly slotted it, and Woodbridge were back within striking distance. 12-6.
Feeling their tails up, Woodbridge began winning the set-piece battle. In a David-esque turn of events, they shoved the bigger Wisbech pack off their own scrum ball. Even the referee, who probably expected this to be a Wisbech walkover, raised an eyebrow. A penalty for a high tackle followed, and Morris slotted yet another kick. 12-9.
But just as Woodbridge were beginning to think they might pull off the upset of the century, Goliath reared his ugly head again. Another massive Wisbech forward rumbled over the line, restoring their lead just before halftime. 17-9 to Wisbech.
Second Half: Woodbridge’s Finest Hour
After a pep talk that likely involved a mix of motivational clichés and promises of post-match beverages, Woodbridge returned to the field with a new level of ferocity. They attacked Wisbech with pace, skill, and, most importantly, belief. A slick backline move saw Joseph Sugu smash through Wisbech’s defence before flicking a no-look, behind-the-back pass (rumoured to be inspired by a YouTube rugby highlight reel) to Jake Hately, who darted over for a sensational try. Tom Morris added the extras, and Woodbridge were ahead! 19-17 to David!
For the next 30 minutes, it was trench warfare. Wisbech, furious at the idea of being beaten by a team they had probably written off as a Sunday social squad, threw everything they had at Woodbridge. But every time a Wisbech player was met with a tackle, it was as if Woodbridge had found an extra gear—or possibly borrowed one from the nearby tractor. Time and time again, they repelled Wisbech’s advances. The forwards crashed into rucks like men possessed, and the backs tackled anything that moved.
As the clock ticked down, it looked like Woodbridge might pull off the impossible. But with just two minutes left, Wisbech’s relentless pressure finally broke through. One last surge from their gigantic forwards saw them squeeze over for a heartbreaking try, sealing a 24-19 victory.
Final Whistle: Giants Prevail, but Heroes Emerge
In the end, Wisbech may have taken the win, but Woodbridge took the pride. Against a team twice their size and at the top of the league, they showed heart, determination, and a willingness to fight tooth and nail. Though Goliath may have won this round, David left the field with heads held high, knowing they gave the giants of Wisbech one heck of a scare.
And after all, isn’t that what rugby’s all about?
Volunteer Requirements for Woodbridge Rugby Club
Volunteering at Woodbridge Rugby Club offers a great opportunity to support the club and its community. However, for roles involving direct interaction with players, especially youth and vulnerable groups, certain qualifications and checks are mandatory to ensure a safe and supportive environment. Below are the key requirements for volunteers.
By meeting these requirements, volunteers will help create a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for all participants. New Volunteers FAQ (2)
YOU have a vital role to play in protecting player welfare
An hour spent on the RFU’s HEADCASE online concussion awareness training is an hour well spent. Not just for first aiders, match officials and coaches but also good for players (adult and age grade 13-18) and parents/guardians to know what concussion looks and feels like.
Players and parents/guardians can access the course here
https://cardiffmet.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bCW97z8eCyn0dz8
First aiders and coaches who require a record of completion of the HEADCASE eLearning module for their personal RFU GMS profile and/or as a prerequisite for participating in England Rugby training courses, should book onto one of the modules via the Course Booking System using the ‘HEADCASE eLearning via Course Booking System’ link below.
The RFU changed the way tickets are issued last year. Please note tickets will be sent electronically and each person attending will have to use the Twickenham app on their own device.
Once tickets have been allocated by the Club, members will have to log on to the RFU ticketing site and purchase their allocated tickets from the RFU direct.
Members may now apply for the 2025 Spring Home Series International games. A member is a paid-up player age 17 or over, a coach, or a Vice President and we require you to confirm this on the application form.
The games are:
NB there are separate applications for each of these games.
Please note members must attend the match with their guest/s and tickets should not be purchased as gifts to non-members.
Junior tickets are available for all the games. A junior is aged 15 and under and must be accompanied by an adult
The Club will have its usual limited number of tickets, so if you order more than two tickets per games please indicate if you would be willing to accept two or three. Please also indicate if you would be willing to accept tickets at a higher or lower prices. As in the past there is no guarantee you will get the tickets you apply for.
If there are a group of you wishing to travel together you will need to make separate applications noting who you would like to sit with if possible. Also note that RFU guidance states that only in exceptional circumstances should more than 2 tickets be allocated to a member. Please advise me of the names of those attending if you apply for more than 2 tickets. Tickets can only be supplied for the use of members and should not be purchased as gifts etc.
Applications must be returned by 5pm on Thursday 12th September 2025. Applications made after this deadline will not be accepted.
Please send a signed scan of the application to tickets@woodbridgerugby.net. For the full application form International Ticket Ballot 2024_2025
Please note that due to stringent RFU rules regarding ticket allocation only applications made using these forms can be accepted. I cannot accept applications over the phone or by email.
GDPR
By applying for tickets, you accept that details held in the form will be held offsite from the club by Woodbridge Rugby Club volunteers and will only be used for the purposes of international ticket applications.
AWAY TICKET APPLICATIONS
The Club receives a very small allocation of tickets for England’s away matches which next year take place against Ireland on 1st February 2025, and Wales on 15th march 2025. If you are interested in applying for tickets for either of these games, then please email Andy Rankin at tickets@woodbridgerugby.net . As with home games, there is no guarantee of tickets if we need to ballot them
Well, what an incredible honour.
Over recent years I have tried to get more involved in the club and give back a little of what I have taken out. To have the opportunity now to be the President of such a great rugby club is amazing.
There is no avoiding my family name at the club with dad Mike, founding member, first captain and also President for 23 years. To be honest the club has come a very long way from the 80’s/90’s days and this has been down to the development that Rob Simpson, Simon Bennett and more recently TJ Johnson have steered with the help of committee members and volunteers. All clubs rely upon volunteers and Woodbridge is no different.
The club has featured throughout my life. As a child both parents were active with running of the club, then as a teenager enjoying numerous parties at Hatchley Barn and then into my 20’s as a player. When I was a young player at the club in the late 80’s, there was no Junior section. It all started at U19 Colts level and then occasional games for one of the three senior teams. We had a really successful Colts team littered with county and regional players and also dominated the 7’s scene. Many of the players from that era still rock up at the club and some attend the ex players lunches. Last year this was a massive event and hopefully will be again this season.
I look forward to supporting Woodbridge Rugby Club in my new role as President and look forward to seeing many of you at the club over the season ahead.
Adam Lubbock
President
On Thursday, 29th August 2024, we held our AGM at Hatchely Barn. This is the time when the Directors of the club present the year-end financials, recap the previous season, and highlight what lies ahead. It’s also when the Board is elected.
As the re-elected Chairman, I proceeded with the following report:
I want to acknowledge the tremendous efforts of our entire team in supporting the growth of the club, and thank all our volunteers for their time they all put in our club.
We also recognise and deeply appreciate those committee members who have chosen to step down after years of unwavering support. More information on their contributions will be shared in upcoming events and lunches. I am, however, delighted to announce that Adam Lubbock has been appointed as the club President, who not only holds the integrity of the Lubbock name but will bring an injection of new ideas to the club that will be very much appreciated.
Our club’s facilities continue to serve the community well, with our clubhouse hosting various local businesses and groups. Our senior men’s rugby team had a successful season, finishing 4th in their league and scoring an impressive 113 tries. Our senior women’s team and the Colts also enjoyed strong seasons, with increasing participation and exciting performances. The junior and mini sections were particularly successful, with most age groups remaining unbeaten.
We continue to invest in our playing facilities, with ongoing improvements and the invaluable support of our volunteers. Financially, it has been a positive year, with two RFU loans paid off and a new contract secured with Greene King. However, we do face challenges ahead, particularly with rising energy costs and bar stock prices.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our committee members, volunteers, and parents who contribute to making our club a thriving community.
I would also like to recognise a few individuals for their exceptional contributions:
Their support has been invaluable to our club’s success.
We are looking forward to hosting, what we expect to be another year of first class rugby on the pitch, community spirit within the club and reputation that we can all be proud of.
I look forward to seeing you in the club house, by the bar or pitch side.
Tim Johnson
Chairman
As we gear up for the upcoming season, it’s time to register or renew your registration on GMS (Game Management System). Ideally, it would preferable to have registered by Sunday, 1st September when the season does officially start.
All adult players, from the Premiership to the community game, must complete this quick and easy online process before the season starts.
To help you with this process, the RFU has provided a video tutorial and explanatory text: RFU Registration Video.
Here are the steps you need to follow:
To view the subs for 2024/25: Subscriptions 2024-2025
For additional support, including step-by-step guides and ‘how-to’ videos, visit Community Rugby Help.
We look forward to a fantastic season ahead!