I would like to start by thanking our very generous sponsors namely Emtelle, Chrystie’s Furniture, BSW Timber, Border Distillery, Green Room and our two very loyal members who contribute greatly. To our board and programme advertisers, you are all much appreciated, and I would like to thank Malcom for his work on this front too.
Our season started with the Festival of Rugby; this was hastily arranged due to the regulations at the time, but all things considered was a hugely successful weekend. We began with Teri Touch on Friday night organized by Tony Elliot. There were about 6/7 teams participating in what was a nice, relaxed atmosphere catering for all ages and abilities. The main tournament on Saturday had a fully booked corporate beforehand with the Force playing Jed. Melrose with an impressive performance, won the tournament. Sunday was taken up by a very successful Youth Tournament – thankfully normality had returned.
Matty Douglas became Head Coach in mid-July, a very inspiring appointment which seemed to change the mood in the camp immediately. We started with an excellent opening day victory against pre-season favourites, Currie, which set the tone for our unbeaten record at Mansfield Park. There were a few losses on the road, but we still achieved our play off target losing to eventual winners Marr, in a fierce encounter that was in the balance until the final whistle. Congratulations to Marr on their first title.
Our highlight was winning our 50th Border League title against a determined Kelso side, a remarkable achievement richly deserved after our efforts throughout the season. The team was well led by Matty Carryer with Conor Sutherland emerging as an outstanding young player.
The player of the year was Kirk Ford who has never had a bad game and hugely deserved his awards at the end of season. Jae Linton who was also another candidate for player of the year had a bad injury in late November but thankfully has fully recovered and we look forward to seeing him back in a green jersey next season.
The Force were unlucky with injuries and player availability but when at full strength were a match for anybody, doing the double over Currie and running champions, Heriots, close. Thanks to David Lowrie, Kenny Colville, Gary Muir, and Rory Bannerman for his Goldenacre appearance. I would also like to thank Team Manager Greg Mcleod for his efforts whilst managing a very busy workload. Matty Landles and Lee Stewart are stepping down as 1st XV coaches, huge thank you to you both from everyone at the club for all your hard work.
Graham Hogg came at the start of the season as Development Officer, continuing the good work done by Rocky Johnstone. He was ably assisted by Morgan Tait. The pair have increased numbers participating and the enthusiasm amongst youngsters is very encouraging for the future and a credit to both.
It was rather special to have the Scottish Unified Rugby 10’s festival at Mansfield, hopefully this can continue in years to come.
I would like to congratulate our 6 internationalists this year, Lisa, Lana, Stuart, Darcy, Rory and not forgetting Rhys Tait, captain of the U20’s. This is a remarkable number for Hawick, and we should all be extremely proud.
I had great pleasure in making my near neighbour and lifelong friend, Henry Douglas a life member. He was very honoured and delighted to receive this award, especially surrounded by his family.
Through the year the feasibility group has been working closely with architects Gray Macpherson to progress the initial plans for the potential redevelopment of the Mansfield Park facilities. A great deal of work and time has been given over to this Feasibility study, which is now in stage 3, having received a favourable pre- planning application report from Scottish Borders Council planning department. The completion of the study is also important in order that a proper financial viability study can be done, something which the finance sub- committee have requested. It is important to stress that the Feasibility Group will only ever act in the club members best interests, and no decisions on any type of redevelopment will be made without complete transparency and consultation with the club members.
Finally, some thanks, first of all to our retiring Director of Rugby Garry Douglas who has made a huge contribution to the club, hopefully he can continue in some capacity. The medical team Morag, Katie, Linsay and others who are without a doubt one of the strongest parts of the club. To the members for their continued support and of course all our other fantastic supporters. All the committee for their unbelievable backing during some difficult times. Thank you very much, I have been very honored to be your President. To the backbone of rugby, of course, our players, there would be no game without you. Further thanks are due to Lindsey and Debbie who provide the club with excellent bar and catering facilities throughout the year, we are so fortunate to have you. Finally, a massive thanks to Ian for the backing and help you have given me, I couldn’t have done it without your utmost support over the last 2 years. All the best to you and Malcolm, I have no doubt you are both going to do an absolutely tremendous job in your new roles as President and Vice President. Good Luck and I look forward to supporting you both.
