So far so good for Antrim RFC, as we reach the halfway point of the season. We began the season with plenty of change to the team, as a few older players retired and others moved to pastures new. I am glad to say that the new additions and the returnees to the squad have settled in well and have had an immediate impact bringing enthusiasm and energy to the club. This coupled with good team spirit and honest, hard work has seen the team come together nicely with a healthy competition for places that every team yearns for.
We have come to mid-season, sitting top of our league and safely negotiate a tricky first round cup tie. As ever, no season is without peril and although the loss of our club captain Mark Perry to injury came as a blow, vice-captain Gary walker has stepped up to the plate admirably and helped to guide the team to its current lofty position.
Looking forward to the rest of the season, as we have already stressed to the players, complacency cannot and will not be allowed to creep in. Antrim RFC must build on our good work so far right from the minis to the seniors and the seniors must know that we need to work even harder to maintain our top of the table position. We must continue to welcome new players to the club and add even more competition so that we can achieve our aims this season. Only as a club working together with the help of all our players, coaches, club members, sponsors and supporters, will we be able to continue to do this.
As always Happy Christmas to all of our supporters and here’s to a triumphant 2014.
Yours in rugby, Richard Smyth. (Antrim RFC Head Coach)
