Walsall RFC Ltd

Thank you doesn’t seem enough for all the time and effort so many people gave to make the opening celebratory centenary weekend such a success – but it’s heartfelt and goes to everyone who played a part.

Firstly, big thanks to the Centenary Ball committee for organising the events of the weekend. The tireless attention to detail by Rich Coleman, Rod Dickson, Mark Hennessy, Nick Field, Phil Stanley and Nick Rose made it the success it was.

We have to thank Scott Quinnell, Rod Woodward and Rupert Moon for entertaining us so well on Friday afternoon, it was a fantastic way to start the weekend. So much laughter from friends and members past and present made it a wonderful afternoon.

The Mayor of Walsall, Rose Martin and Vice President of the RFU Rob Briers both returned to the club (after many years!)  to officially open our new extension-thanks to them both for cutting the ribbon and for spending time at the club and watching the match.  Also, thank you to John McDermott, Staffordshire President and Mike Proctor, Staffordshire RFU council member for taking the time to spend the day with us and for presenting Tim Smith with a Staffordshire Cap, taken by Tim on behalf of all Walsall players who have represented Staffordshire over the years.

We were also delighted to be joined by Terry Cobner. Terry played for Wales and for the British Lions in the 70’s after playing for Walsall in the late 60’s. Terry did us the honour of presenting Elliot Clarke with his 20 League appearance tie.

Hopefully everyone enjoyed the 1^st XV win over Hereford, the support and noise was awesome – it really spurred the players on! Well done to all of the players winning our first match in the promoted league.  Also, big thanks to the Mini and Junior players who came in their club shirts and gave the players a Guard of Honour as they ran on to the pitch.

Rob Briers unveiled the six portraits of full international players who had represented Walsall that the Centenary Legacy committee commissioned.   Thanks to the donations from members who contributed to the legacy fund, led by Martin McCluney and for all of the hard work getting it all organised.  

The Centenary Ball was a fantastic event, thoroughly enjoyed by all the members, family, and friends – old and new.

Sunday morning saw our Mini and Junior section return after the summer – thanks to them for their patience in listening to coaches when they were organising the 100 on the AGP for the drone photo.  We look forward to seeing the photos. 

Paddy organised our Walsall XV to play Handsworth Rugby Club, replaying the first ever match Walsall RFC played in September 1922.  It was an entertaining game and thanks to all players for turning up for the last celebratory event of the weekend – it didn’t disappoint!

Other special thanks to Plyvine catering, Signature Marquees, Pete Burke, GG’s Catering, our bar staff and glass collectors, Crowe and TWP for donating raffle prizes, Coors Brewery, Jenny Warwood of JLW Creative Design for spending so much time doing artwork for the programme, posters, banners, flyers, bunting and more.

Lastly, thank you all for being at the club as a member, player, supporter, volunteer, friend, sponsor we wouldn’t be where we are without you all. Every person plays their part and it’s what makes us work so well.