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MATCHDAY PROGRAMME
MATCH OFFICIALS:
ANDREW SHAW (REF), PAUL FINCKEN (AR) & SIMON O'NEIL (AR)
BILLINGHAM RUFC
- Adam Brown
- Ben Hyndman
- Kerian Clarke
- Dan Burns
- Lauchlan Hill
- George Bolam
- Tom Campbell
- Anth Jackson
- Jamie Lane
- Peter Evans
- Louie Groark
- Luke Wilson (c)
- Joe Evans
- Matt Kirby
- Elliott Husband
- Joe Spoors
- Ewan Brown
- Ryan Kirkbride
- Nathan Myers
- Ben Stockdale
HULL IONIANS RUFC
- Kami Tuvotu
- Ben Stephenson
- Jonny Clark
- Joe Makin (c)
- Kobbie Fofie
- Adam Brankley
- James Sanderson
- George Mewburn
- Sam Pocklington
- Ben Smith
- Jimmy McDaniel
- Greg Minikin
- Maliq Holden
- Cam Burnhill
- James Watts
- Scott Westwood
- Jamal Khalil
- Archie Upton
- Josh Britton
- James Malcolmson
TABLE, FIXTURES & RESULTS
MATCH DAY SPONSOR
With Thanks to Today’s Sponsors: Colourscreen & Lee Light Haulage
Billingham Rugby Club would like to extend our sincere thanks to Colourscreen and Lee Light Haulage, proud sponsors of today’s match against Hull Ionians.
Both businesses have supported the club on numerous occasions, and we are delighted to welcome them back as match sponsors. Colourscreen, one of our main club sponsors, continue to play a crucial role in helping us deliver rugby and community activity throughout the year. Their ongoing backing reflects a genuine commitment to the club and to local sport, and we are extremely grateful for their partnership.
We also extend our appreciation to Lee Light Haulage, whose continued involvement is valued by everyone at Billingham RFC. Their willingness to support matchdays such as today’s is another example of how local businesses contribute to the success and sustainability of grassroots sport.
On behalf of the players, coaches, volunteers, and supporters, thank you to both Colourscreen and Lee Light Haulage for your generosity and loyal support. We hope you enjoy your day with us at Greenwood Road and look forward to many more occasions together.
Thank You for Supporting Billingham Rugby Club
Billingham Rugby Club continues to grow stronger thanks to the incredible backing of our community.
Whether you’re on the sidelines, supporting as a sponsor, or helping in countless other ways, your contribution is what keeps the club thriving. Every cheer, every partnership, and every act of support fuels the progress that allows us to improve our facilities, develop future talent, and remain a proud hub for the local community.
To all who play their part—thank you. Your commitment truly makes the difference.
SOUTH EAST ELEVATION
NORTH EAST ELEVATION
PRINCIPAL CLUB SPONSOR
Billingham Rugby Club is proud to announce Sandmartin Financial Advisors as our Principal Club Sponsor for the 2025/26 season.
Sandmartin are no strangers to the club – they have been loyal supporters for many years, backing us both on and off the field. Their continued commitment plays a vital role in helping us provide opportunities for players of all ages, maintain and improve our facilities, and ensure the club remains at the heart of the community.
As independent financial advisors, Sandmartin offer tailored advice across a wide range of areas, from investments and pensions to mortgages, protection and retirement planning. Their reputation for trust, expertise and personal service makes them a perfect partner for the club.
We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to Sandmartin for their ongoing support and investment in Billingham Rugby Club. Partnerships like this are the foundation of our success and we’re delighted to continue building this journey together.
Club President's Welcome
JOHN KER
CLUB PRESIDENT
It's my pleasure to welcome all today's visitors to Billingham Rugby Club.
Whether you are a player, a committee representative or a loyal fan we give you whole hearted greetings. We shall endeavour to treat you well both on and off the pitch, regardless of the final outcome of the game.
As we enter our 102nd season, after over twenty years at Greenwood Road plus eight years with the AGP we are going from strength to strength. Junior and mini numbers remain high with girls as well as boys making Sundays a constant whirl of activity.
Actually I am still recovering from the final game of last season when the bonus point gained secured our place in this league. For twenty minutes we played scintillating rugby and quite frankly we were unstoppable. Of course the reward is to do it all again for a third season; at least we know what to expect, playing at Level Four in a professional league.
Each year I show my appreciation and thanks to the strong leadership, both on the field and off it. We are very proud of all our many volunteers who help keep the club moving forward. That includes all the managers and coaches in the Youth Section who are all volunteers too.
It's difficult in a one-off piece to react to weekly events, however Chairman Mark Armstrong and DoR Peter Evans do change their contributions game by game, so a special thanks to both.
In conclusion, after two hard seasons we are still up for the fight. A third season at this level does not daunt us and we still hope to establish ourselves permanently in NATIONAL 2 NORTH.
#OSIOS
Director of Rugby Performance Update
PETER EVANS
DIRECTOR OF RUGBY PERFORMANCE
Our Final Home Game of 2025
As we approach the halfway point of the season, we find ourselves in a strong position. The league is incredibly tight, and a single result good or bad can shift the table quickly.
Last time out we picked up a rare away win, despite making ten changes and fielding a group of lads running on fumes. Fortunately, we’re much stronger today, and we’ll need to be.
Ionians are a quality side with strength right across the park, powerful up front and elusive threats out wide. We’ve selected a team built to play the stereotypical Billingham way: off-the-cuff, running rugby backed by relentless work rate and desire. We’ve also got a serious bench to call on, which we hope will see us home.
I’s are bringing their 2s, which always makes for a great occasion, and we’ll return the favour later in the season. Our own 2s have had a tough spell, but there’s light at the end of the tunnel and it’s a strong group today a good blend of young talent and dependable regulars.
A big thank you from me for another incredible year of rugby at a brilliant level, matched by an even better level of support. Keep coming down, keep making that noise it makes a massive difference.
Join us next weekend for Christmas Jumper Day, with live music as we round off the year together. 💚
#OSIOS
FIRST XV MATCH DAY SHIRT SPONSORS
We can't thank these and all our other sponsors enough for their continued support throughout the season.
TEAM NOTICES
Lions Face Hull Ionians 2s in Key Home Clash
The Lions are back in action today as they take on Hull Ionians 2s here at Greenwood Road — another important test as the squad looks to build consistency through the middle stretch of the season.
With a strong core group developing and growing week by week, the Lions have shown real character in recent performances. The focus now is on tightening the finer details, converting pressure into points, and maintaining the physical edge.
Hull Ionians 2s arrive with a reputation for being well-drilled and competitive across the park, so the Lions know they will need to front up from the first whistle. Home advantage, combined with increasing squad cohesion, gives every reason for confidence, and today provides a valuable opportunity to put together a complete performance.
As always, your support from the sidelines makes a genuine difference. Best of luck to the Lions — enjoy the game and let’s get behind the lads.
Injured Players Benevolent Fund
Striving to be the Best Professional Amateur Club.
Billingham Rugby Club Launches Injured Players Benevolent Fund
Billingham Rugby Club Launches Injured Players Benevolent Fund
After much discussion, Billingham Rugby Club is pleased to announce the launch of the Injured Players Benevolent Fund. This new initiative is designed to support players who are injured, providing assistance to those who need it most.
How will the fund build?
From March 22, 2025, the club introduced a change to its plastic glasses refund policy. Instead of offering refunds, £1 from the cost of the first glass will be donated to the Injured Players Benevolent Fund. Refills will remain free (drink charge still applicable), and customers can still return their cups as usual. This is just the first of several initiatives aimed at raising funds for the cause.
The club is excited to launch this initiative and thanks you for your continued support in helping us assist injured players.
CLUB SHOP
Fortis Polo
Crafted with a folded collar and 2 button fastening placket, these tops feature short sleeves to give off that classic look.
Ventus Gilet
The Ventus Gilet is our Spring/Autumn jacket designed to keep your core insulated when temperatures are slightly warmer.
Lorica Quilted Jacket
The Lorica quilted jacket is our cold weather jacket designed to protect against the elements; keeping you warm and dry.
Protego Waterproof Jacket
The Protego waterproof jacket is our "Stay dry at all costs" jacket. It's fully waterproof fabric, sealed seams and adjustable wrist straps ensures the rain stays out.
Book your Match Day Table now and make your game day one to remember!
Experience match day in style by booking a Match Day Table at Billingham Rugby Club!
For just £300*, gather a group of 10 and enjoy exclusive pre-game hospitality from 12.30 to 17.30.
Your package includes entry to the match, a hearty hot meal before kick-off, and a bottle of port with a cheeseboard to savour afterwards. Plus, our table service ensures you can sit back, relax, and soak in the atmosphere.
*Discounted price available for club members.
Sunday Lunches at the Club
Our Sunday Lunches are a culinary delight that combines mouthwatering flavours with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Indulge in a scrumptious feast featuring a variety of delicious dishes, from succulent roasts to fresh seasonal vegetables, all prepared to perfection.
To ensure we have a table waiting for you, pre-booking is advised. Gather your friends and family, and make your reservation today to savor the best Sunday Lunch in town at Billingham Rugby Club.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to enjoy a relaxing and delicious meal with your loved ones.
WERE HIRING!
Hospitality Staff
Role includes: Table service, Bar service (full description upon interview). 18+.
Please email CV to matthewpinkney1@hotmail.co.uk
#OSIOS
Looking for the perfect venue to host your wedding reception, private party, or corporate event?
Billingham Rugby Club’s recently refurbished clubhouse is the ideal choice for any special occasion, offering a versatile, stylish, and welcoming space for all types of events.
Our modernised clubhouse is now open for bookings throughout 2025 and 2026. Whether you’re planning a wedding celebration, an intimate family gathering, a milestone birthday party, or a professional corporate event, our venue can accommodate it all. With a spacious function room, a fully stocked bar, and tailored catering options, we ensure every detail is covered, making your event stress-free and memorable.
The clubhouse’s recent refurbishments have transformed it into a contemporary space, perfect for creating lasting memories. Our experienced team is committed to working closely with you to customise the venue according to your vision, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
With flexible layouts, ample parking, and a warm atmosphere, Billingham Rugby Club’s clubhouse is a top choice for hosting events in the area. We invite you to contact us today to secure your preferred date for 2025/2026.
Let us help you make your next event truly special!
Billingham RUFC Achieves 5-Star Safety Accreditation
Billingham RUFC is proud to have once again been awarded a 5-star safety accreditation, reinforcing our commitment to providing the safest possible environment for players, supporters, and visitors alike.
We continue to prioritise the highest safety standards, ensuring that everyone who steps through our doors can enjoy their time at the club with confidence. Our dedication to safety is backed by SAVI (Security and Vulnerability Initiative) – find out more about their work here...
SUPPORT WHERE IT MATTERS
One of the initiatives I have been especially proud of over the last 11 years, is our support of local charities.
We have put our chosen charities up front and centre in our fundraising and promoted them on our 1st XV away shirts as evidenced by the shirts hanging on the back wall in the main room of the club. You will see Daisy Chain, a local Autism Respite charity in Norton, BCT Aspire, a local Billingham Foundation for young adults run by our very own Paul Burgum and of course Prostate Cancer. Local does not always mean locally based but can mean personal too us.
Charities are very personal choices, and many people support charities due to personal reasons and Prostate Cancer is a great example of that as I know there have been sufferers amongst our club members and bringing awareness to this cancer was our objective. In addition we continue to support the Poppy Appeal.
I am delighted to confirm that our charity for this and next season is the Alzheimer’s Society.
Again, whilst the Alzheimer’s Society is a national charity, it is one that is personal to us.
We recently lost a life long member in Bob Bell and cardio-vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s were the cause of his rapid deterioration. My mother has Alzheimer’s and to see the light and spark of recognition go out from within someone you have known and loved all of your life is a heartbreaking experience. There are new drugs coming to the market and two have recently been approved for use in the UK, but sadly not by the NHS yet. The continued research into this disease is important but so is the awareness and support that charities like the Alzheimer’s’ Society provide.
Our sport is a physical impact support and there is a lit of talk about the impact of our support on dementia in general. Creating awareness off the field alongside ensuring our players have the relevant support in and around the field is a priority for the club.
We kicked off the year with our Centenary dinner and we have already raised well over £1,000 towards the charity and later this year we will have a home match focused on our charity fund raising for the Alzheimer’s Society. I know it’s an over used phrase but please give generously.
There is a donation bottle on the bar – it does take ‘notes’ and we have stickers and badges but if you want a badge, let’s here the rustle of plastic paper please.
MARK ARMSTRONG
CLUB SPONSORS
MAIN CLUB SPONSORS
