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MATCHDAY PROGRAMME
MATCH OFFICIALS:
NIKKI O'DONNELL (REF), JONO SIDWELL-KEETON (AR) & LIAM ROGERS (AR)
BILLINGHAM RUFC
- Adam Brown (vc)
- Ben Hyndman
- Kerian Clarke
- Matty White
- Lauchlan Hill
- Dan Burns
- Tom Campbell
- Joe Evans
- Jamie Lane
- Peter Evans
- Joe Scarborough
- Luke Wilson (c)
- Eldon Myers
- Louie Groark
- Jonny Horner
- Harvey Headlam
- Harry Beadling
- Ryan Kirkbride
- Nathan Myers
- Matt Kirby
ROSSENDALE RUFC
- Ollie Spencer
- Jack Wilkinson
- Matt Probert
- George Peel
- Seb Pemberton
- Brendan Berry
- Ethan Fourie
- Mac Duaibe
- Callum Whelan (c)
- Finn Rogers
- Junior Sa'u
- Joe Burns
- Terrence Barbarinsa
- Kieran Tyrer
- Daniel Holland
- Manny Effiom
- Tomo Clark
- Mark Ioane
- Nick Fontaine
- Tane Bentley
TABLE, FIXTURES & RESULTS
MATCH DAY SPONSOR
Thank You to Today’s Match Sponsor — HPS Roofing & Maintenance
Billingham Rugby Club would like to extend a big thank you to HPS Roofing & Maintenance for sponsoring today’s game against Rossendale RUFC.
Based in the North East, HPS Roofing & Maintenance are specialists in all aspects of roofing and property maintenance, offering reliable, high-quality services for both residential and commercial clients. Their continued support helps our club thrive, both on and off the field.
We’re proud to be backed by a local business that shares our values of hard work, commitment, and community spirit.
Thank you, HPS Roofing & Maintenance, for your generous support — and enjoy the game!
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
Welcome back to Greenwood Road for what promises to be a real dust-up.
It may be early in the season, but this is already a must-win game. It’s one we’ve targeted, and we know we need to take points from it — and Rossendale will be thinking exactly the same.
Last week was a tough day at the office. We weren’t at our best, and Sheffield were very, very good. Days like that happen; all you can do is lick your wounds and respond.
The Lions are back in action today with a strong, youthful side. We’re starting to see players return from injury and work commitments, which bodes well for a powerful senior section moving forward.
It’s a challenging part of the season as the weather turns, and every home game becomes huge. Please get down and get behind the lads — your support means everything.
Big wins are coming.
#OSIOS
CAPTAIN'S CORNER
LUKE WILSON
1ST XV & CLUB CAPTAIN
This weekend is about redemption.
There’s no hiding from it, last week simply wasn’t good enough. Not for this team, not for this club, and not for the standards we set for ourselves.
We all felt it. We all know it. And now it’s about responding the right way.Rossendale at home gives us the perfect opportunity to put things right. This week has been about finding that hunger again—the hunger to work, to compete, to play for each other, and to represent this badge with the pride it deserves.
When we’re on it, when we play with intent and edge, we’re a completely different side. That’s what we need to show from the first minute.Redemption doesn’t come from talking; it comes from actions. It comes from winning collisions, sticking to our shape, staying switched on, and doing the tough stuff for the full eighty. It comes from playing with energy, with passion, and with the bite that makes this place a hard place for anyone to visit.
And we’ve got our people behind us the balcony, the bar, the touchline. When this club gets loud, it lifts us and pushes us on. Let’s feed off that and give them something to get behind.
This is our chance to reset, to fire ourselves up, and to start building momentum into the Christmas run.
Let’s make this weekend about pride, hunger, and a performance that shows exactly who we are.
#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 Return Refreshed to Face Sunderland
After a weekend without a fixture, the Lions are back in action today at Greenwood Road as they take on Sunderland in what is set to be a hard-fought encounter.
The short break has given the squad valuable time to reset, recover, and refine a few areas on the training pitch. With bodies rested and competition for places intensifying, there’s a renewed sharpness and hunger within the group as they look to kick-start another strong run of form.
Expect a competitive battle between two committed teams — but with the home crowd behind them and a squad eager to get back out there, the Lions will be aiming to make a statement on their return to league action.
Kick-off at 2pm.
#OSIOS
Colts Aim to Keep Momentum Rolling Against Penrith
Billingham Colts return to Greenwood Road this Sunday as they welcome Penrith Colts for what promises to be another competitive fixture. Fresh from an impressive and well-earned victory over Blaydon Colts last weekend, the boys will be looking to build on that performance and keep their positive run of form alive.
Penrith will pose a strong challenge, as they always do, and the visitors will arrive determined to disrupt Billingham’s rhythm. However, with confidence high and momentum on their side, the Colts will be backing themselves to deliver another focused and energetic display in front of the home crowd.
Kick-off is 12.30pm on Sunday here at Billingham Rugby Club. Get yourself down to support the next generation of Lions – your backing makes a real difference.
#OSIOS
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
