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MILLFIELD OLD BOYS RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB 2011
Alan Burns (Former Parent) Chairman
In the opening paragraph of my rugby article in the Millfield Chronicle 2011 I said, “unfortunately the 2010 season will be primarily remembered for all the wrong reasons, the premature death of Alastair Kidd aged 38 was not on the agenda,” time has not changed my thinking. In consequence, as the Rugby Club’s Newsletter is all about what has happened during the year, I thought it only appropriate to open with my respects to Alastair and to highlight the Club’s affection in reporting on the Commemoration held at Millfield on 22nd January 2011.
In honour of “Kiddo,” as he was affectionately known by his peers, a commemorative bench was placed beside the Jubilee (now the Gareth Edwards) pitch which will be a lasting tribute to Alastair. Many thanks to all who contributed towards the bench and the occasion. Following a brief ceremony, with the support of Malcolm and Geraldine Kidd, Alastair’s parents, the Headmaster, Craig Considine, and many dignitaries from the world of Welsh Rugby, the President Dennis Gethin and Crawshay’s President, Angus Evans, Chairman Russell Jenkins, and Martin Davies a former Millfield parent, who also sits on the Board of the WRU, a Club luncheon was held in the Gaskell Room, which was also attended by John Davies of the OM Society, many Club Hon. Vice Presidents, OM Rugby Legends (the over 35’s) friends and relatives of Alastair’s. The occasion was a tremendous tribute to Alastair.
This was to be followed by the 1st XV v Crawshay’s Youth match which was unfortunately cancelled due to a frozen pitch. Whilst this was unfortunate it did not diminish the occasion as the extra time available for lunch allowed more time for the speeches commemorating Alastair. I know I am not alone when I say that the heartfelt speech made by his father Malcolm, in appreciation of the occasion, will be a lasting memory to all who attended and the bench a fitting memory of “Kiddo” to all who were fortunate to know him.
The illustrated photo of Kiddo at a Gala Dinner, provided by Malcolm and Geraldine, epitomises his love of life and indomitable spirit and is what we will all miss; particularly OM Rugby “Legends” when on tour competing in the Vets 10’s in Amsterdam. In trying to bring a degree of closure on this terribly tragic affair, I can only hope that Geraldine and Malcolm can draw a shred of comfort from the warmth and affection shown by the Club and all who took part; all tributes and messages were and are from the heart. I suspect in the years ahead, when on tour, that there will be many tales told of times spent together and pints consumed in the telling. Of one thing I am sure, Kiddo will be sadly missed but never forgotten.
Unfortunately, however one might feel, life goes on and the less important things in life have to be reported. In consequence the various reports on the Club’s 2010 season are attached which make interesting reading. My thanks to all the Coaches and Team Managers who throughout the season helped in the various tournaments.
This is a thankless task, made more difficult by the lethargic response by players to emails, despite them living in the 21st century where communication technology and the demand for excellence have never been greater. But as the proverb goes, “one lives in hope but we will probably die in despair.” It follows therefore that a special vote of thanks must go to Paul Hockedy for his tremendous work in recording the names of all rugby OMs and his tireless efforts in getting them to play despite the magnitude of the task. Even getting a response from the players is an achievement in itself. Well done Paul, your efforts are much appreciated.
I cannot let the opportunity pass without mentioning the superb performance by the Academy 7’s squad in reaching the final of the Amsterdam Silver Pier, beaten only by the Samurai International 7’s, who having won in Amsterdam then went on to win the prestigious Middlesex Charity 7’s at Twickenham. It was a memorable performance by the Club’s Academy squad, captained by John Brake who performed superbly throughout the tournament. Very well done to all squad members. Two of the team, John Brake and Mark Odejobi, are at the time of writing, in the current England 7’s squad along with Matt Turner, Oli Lindsey-Hague and Tom Powell. Many congratulations to them all, hopefully one day they may play for us in Amsterdam. Fingers crossed.
On a less auspicious note, but one that was very enjoyable was the OMs performance in the Club’s inaugural trip to Stockholm to compete in the Stockholm 10’s. A tremendous tour which is reported by John Mallett. Congratulations to all who toured and took part. Hopefully, at some future date we may find a sponsor to support this trip as it provided an opportunity for our recent leavers, university players and older OMs who are no longer quick enough for 7’s to represent the Club in a rugby tournament abroad. As we would have struggled this year to find a sponsor, we intend entering a 10’s team in the New London 10’s Tournament over the weekend of June 4th & 5th at Richmond and London Welsh. Details of this tournament will be mailed out by Paul Hockedy. Please respond if you would like to be considered for selection.
To John Davies and Marion O’Neill and all members of the Old Millfieldian Society for their continued support and work they do on behalf of the Club, and to the Committee for their financial support throughout the season. To the Headmaster, Craig Considine, and all tutors for their support, it is very much appreciated. A heartfelt thank you to Angela for the tremendous efforts in managing the Club’s administration, (and for putting up with me) and Mel Chalke and her helpers for the superb catering at various tournaments.
The Annual Fixture List is attached which is a considerable commitment. The Club does need more parents to become Honorary Vice Presidents as the annual subscription is the back- bone of the Club’s finances. A Standing Order form is enclosed for parents and friends who would like to help the Club in this way. Hopefully the 2011/2012 season will be as successful as the last and more OMs and Honorary Vice Presidents will watch the teams play in various tournaments throughout the season.
I hope you enjoy the Club’s 2011 Newsletter.