In our first edition of ‘Club Watch’, we take a look at the work taking place off the field at some of our National League teams.

National One

Blackheath

Blackheath Rugby Club have continued their work developing an non-functioning park into a community sports area to be used by both the club and the general public.

Several days ago the club were given the keys to the playing fields ahead of the sports fields being fully opened.

Cambridge RUFC 

Cambridge unveiled their new clubhouse extension with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday night, prior to the clubs 36-36 draw with Sale FC.

The £500,000 development means that the club now has four new unisex changing rooms, officials changing room, a gym, treatment suites, laundry room and club office.

Chinnor RFC

National 1 new boys Chinnor announced a new signing on Tuesday, fresh from their 26-11 victory away to Plymouth on their first game following promotion.

The club tweeted three photos of their brand new scoreboard being erected by local builders in advance of their first home game of the season against Ampthill & District this weekend.

Sale FC

In alliance with Sale Sharks, Sale FC have announced that they are launching a women’s side to allow local girls to continue their rugby development after leaving school.

The club is holding open try-outs and some players have already taken part in meetings discussing the clubs vision.

National 2 North

Chester RUFC

Chester officially opened their artificial pitch over the weekend before their game against Preston in which the home side triumphed.

There was free admission for fans who came to Hare Lane on Saturday and there were community games prior to the clubs first fixture of the season.

Leicester Lions RFC 

Martin Johnson and Matt Hampson will be present at Leicester Lions this coming weekend. The former England captain will be opening the Lions’ new clubhouse on Saturday as part of Leicester’s big weekend when they host local rivals South Leicester.

Matt Hampson will be at the club on Sunday where he will be doing meet and greet before an open afternoon with fun and games on the field.

Preston Grasshoppers 

On Saturday, The Hoppers are offering Preston North End season ticket holders the chance to come to Lightfoot Green to see their rivalry game against Fylde for 50% off normal ticket prices.

National 2 South 

Canterbury RFC 

Following the clubs home match against Worthing on October 6th ,the Marine Travel ground will be the venue of an Oktoberfest featuring a performance from a Ska tribute band.

Clifton Rugby Club 

Bristol’s Clifton Rugby club will be the first stop on BT Sport’s Rugby Tonight tour of the country.

Bristolian Ellis Genge has also been announced as a special guest in what will be a memorable night at Station Road.

Henley Rugby Club

Wales Head Coach Warren Gatland will be making an appearance at Henley Rugby Club for a dinner taking place on the 21st.

The dinner will be a chance for fans to bend Gatland’s ear about Wales, the Lions and much more!

Old Albanian RFC

OA’s have announced today that they will be launching an academy system. Bringing in dedicated coaches, the academy is open for 17-23 year olds from the club, local area, other clubs and University students.