I wanted to introduce myself as Selby’s new Director of Rugby. Having made my debut for Selby at the age of 7 and being involved with the Club throughout the last 40 odd years, it’s a role I am extremely honoured to take on. I also wanted to introduce James Hunt who will be focusing on the senior men’s teams.

During pre-season we have been working hard to build an environment that encourages players to come and join in, whatever their ability. We have worked hard to make the sessions fun, whilst also developing the skills and fitness of the lads.

The coaching team of Jay Robinson, Simon Humberstone, Will Stoker and Ben Garrard have done an excellent job planning and delivering some fantastic sessions, this has been backed up by the numbers turning up each week.

My ultimate aim for the senior men’s this season is to get four teams playing rugby on as many Saturdays as possible.

You have all met the captains for the season, I am sure you will all wish Alex Webster, Jamie Skelton, Chris Rawlins and Andrew Wood good luck as we kick off the season. Like any great club, Selby survives on a network of volunteers and this year we have been blessed with lots of people willing to put their hand up and help out.

With a good win at Bridlington yesterday for the 1st XV and a draw for the 2nd XV at home against Cleckheaton, the season ahead is going to be both exciting and challenging and one I am sure everyone will enjoy.

To all coaches, captains, team managers and volunteers, a massive thank you from me.

As we have seen from this year’s World Cup, the Women’s game goes from strength to strength. At Selby we are developing our senior ladies squad, captained once again by Honor Ratcliffe. Recruitment is high on the agenda and will be a focus going forward. We have a strong girls section and we will be looking to expand on the positives within the age groups as we work on expansion.

Coming out of a difficult post covid period I truly believe we have one of the most vibrant clubs in Yorkshire.

The Club belongs to all of us. With the right environment in place we will build on our strong foundations and make this season one of the most enjoyable and successful for a while.

Thanks for your support.
Andy Bennett
Director of Rugby
dor@selbyrufc.com