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End of Rugby Drought

Published on Friday, 10 July 2020

End of Rugby Drought
 
Adam Shaw coaches following RFU social distancing guidelines

.The end of the rugby drought appears to be getting closer. Following three months of no rugby action at Hitchin Rugby Club, the senior men's squad returned to preseason training this week. Despite the weather the squad were clearly excited to return to training with over 30 players training on Tuesday and Thursday this week. Taking the lead from the women's team who have been training since the beginning of July.


Following the premature cancellation of last season due to the Covid-19 pandemic, as many did, we took to the Internet. Hosting quizzes and online workouts during our time away from rugby. The moment restrictions and guidance changed and allowed for group training outside the wheels for a return to rugby were put in motion.

 

Drawing on the skills of one of our players, Matthew Trussell, a bespoke online booking system was put in place for players to book into a six-person training bubble. As well as this our Head Coach, Adam Shaw, put a video together outlining how the new style training will take place. Providing a focus on following social distancing at all times and not coming to training if you are exhibiting any symptoms. All of this as per the current RFU guidance in place.

 

Thanks to some financial help from NHDC and with the support of local councillor Derrick Ashley, we were able to purchase specific equipment to enable the 'new normal' of training. Training details were put on board around the pitch and buckets filled with soap and water made sure all equipment could be disinfected after use.

 


All of these factors ensured that the squad felt safe and confident in returning to training. The two training sessions this week were well attended with a focus on handling and fitness, which is always needed at this time of year. It was great to see some new faces down at the club as well as the usual ones and also some returning after a while away from the sport. 

Head Coach Adam Shaw is hoping that we can maintain our strong finish to the end of last season through this period of preseason into the next season when it begins. As we are currently unaware of when the season will start this could be a long preseason as we await updated guidance from the RFU. But based on attendance this week our players are definitely up for it.

 

Jon Welsford

 

 

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Hitchin Rugby Limited, King George V Playing Fields, Old Hale Way, Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG5 1XL England, Charity No. 1159772
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