With all of this change the squad returned back to pre - season training  full of optimism and ready to prove a point. Coupled up with a new coach  who wanted to test his new stock and get a feel for their attributes it led  to a very intense but enjoyable pre-season.  

The players target for the season was ultimately to get promoted however, Josh’s target was for us to play a fun brand of Rugby which complimented the players abilities whilst most importantly of all for us to enjoy Rugby again.

There was a-lot to take in throughout pre-season but by the time the fixtures  started we felt we were ready. The first fixture of the season was against  Ashby @ home and it was very apparent that I had not quite grasped the new pattern of play after having commanded pretty much the whole squad in to the opposite position to where they should to have been. The only players in the correct position where on the bench. This lead to a lot of frustration and ultimately loss.  This was one of my lowest points of the season.

As a result of this, Josh revisited our positioning and structure with the squad but mainly for my benefit. As a consequence, the new style of play clicked with us winning our next 14 games consecutively with many spectators commenting on how enjoyable it was to watch the way Southwell Rugby Club were playing. Our only other loss that season came against Buxton Away where we lost our scrum half 2 minutes into the game and failed to recover losing by 2 points 15-13.  

One of the highlights of the season for myself was our fixture against Kesteven at home where we where able to integrate a handful of Senior colts into the 1XV and 2XV. With a strong performance from everyone in on the pitch Southwell won 32-17.

The biggest low during the season for all of the players I feel was the cancellation  of the remainder of the season due to Covid - 19 which halted the momentum  and led to a very different way of life and having a stand-in players  dinner over zoom.

It is great to see the new buzz around the club from players, with  many stepping forward to help others both on and off the field.  I would like to thank all the supporters, sponsors, players, coaches and everyone  who works behind the scenes at Southwell Rugby Club for their input and support  in the which resulted in a successful 2019-2020 season.  

Many Thanks,

James Barker