He conducted a number of one to one interviews, stakeholder groups and direct feedback via the website and suggestion box. This led to a conclusion that the three key issues to be addressed were adult playing, finance and key personnel in the correct roles.

As a result of the review a new vision was presented to the Club: ‘Ripon Rugby Club seeks success both on and off the field of play, whilst retaining its character and heritage as a family club.’

To achieve that vision we aim to provide competitive, enjoyable and quality rugby to enable all players to achieve their best for the Club. We also strive to be financially security to improve and develop our facilities for all our members to enjoy. In doing so we seek to create a thriving community hub in the heart of the City of Ripon.

The values expressed by members as important are a family club, commitment, respect, competitiveness, friendly and enjoyable.

This leads us to enter into a three-year strategy with a view to the First XV achieving promotion to Yorkshire League 1 and a competitive Second XV. We will reintroduce the Third XV.

To achieve this vision on the field we will improve the financial position of the Club and encourage all members to assist wherever they can. We all need to pay our subscriptions in a timely manner, support fundraising activities and encourage business to sponsor the Club.

Ripon Rugby Club Strategy Year One

• First XV to achieve top half of Yorkshire League 2
• Second XV to mount a challenging campaign with the majority of players competing for first XV roles
• Third XV to be reinstated and completing its fixtures
• The second XV and Third XV to readopt their names of Hornblowers and Wakeman
• Establish a costed business plan for the year and set a budget
• Set a full fundraising programme for the year
• Improve sponsorship revenue
• Increase paid membership
• Re-structure the way the Committee functions
• Establish full recruitment of key roles

Please let us know how you can help achieve the year one objectives.