If you wanted a definition of grassroots rugby Minchinhampton Rugby Club would be it. A focal point for a community, bringing together young and old, in the pursuit of fun and camaraderie. The ethos of the club absolutely reflects the values of grass roots rugby; teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship.

Although relatively young, being founded in 1982, through the perspicacity of its membership, ‘Minch’ has grown to be one of the most respected rugby organisations in Gloucestershire. With a modest and competitive catchment area, the junior section is nothing short of phenomenal. Numbering close to 400 boys and girls, aged 6-18, their team and individual successes, belie the humble standing of the club.

The senior section, fields two regular sides with an occasional Third/Veterans side, although the casual observer might be excused for assuming that the Second XV was the Vets team, considering the ‘experience’ regularly on display. The senior First XV currently ply their trade in Gloucestershire Division 2 North. On the face of it, a modest standard, but one at which the protagonists compete with fierce determination. A fact to which our occasional box-office draw Mr Tindall will attest.

A thriving touch rugby section continues to grow apace, attracting all sexes, young and old with a year round programme of training, competition and social revelry.

The whole lot is bound together by the myriad of volunteers who selflessly strive to further the cause, with no recognition or compensation demanded other than the satisfaction of seeing our small piece of the rugby fraternity thrive.

And thrive it does!

I have had the pleasure to be involved with Minch for almost 30 years and the club, for better or for worse has been an enduring and defining part of my life.

I am humbled to follow in the footsteps of the likes of JV Smith (now the oldest surviving England player and former President of the RFU) and the late great Graham Gregory, as President of this august Club. My involvement has brought me a huge amount of enjoyment over the years and I am massively indebted to all for entrusting the Presidency to me and continuing to put up with my antics!

If you are already entangled, you might be able to break away, but the memories will be indelible.

If you are looking to be involved with a friendly, progressive, inclusive club, with some idiosyncrasy thrown in for good measure, look no further.

A warm and friendly welcome awaits players young and old, of all abilities.  If you want to put something back into rugby in a support role, be it coaching, refereeing, physio or helping out behind the scenes, you will be made equally welcome.  If you just want to spectate and involve yourself on the social side, that’s OK too.

Come and join the fun