Race Night – book now! Friday 19th Feb
It is not long now until our famous ‘Annual Race Night’ at Billesley on Friday 19th February. Tickets are now available. Book it in your diary and tell your friends – a fun, cheap night out – and you may even win!
Race Night tickets are available from Jane Hubble or e-mail c/o info@moseleyrugby.co.uk - £10 a ticket incl food. Fish & Chips, Mushy Peas, Bread & Butter and Curry Sauce

Moseley given go-ahead for stadium upgrade!

“We will see exciting new facilities of which the whole of the city can be proud", Planning Chief, Full story here

Valentine Dinner & Dance - Organised by Broadway Dance

After the previous highly popular events organized by Broadway Dance, this should be a sell out!

When: Saturday 13th February 2010
Venue: Moseley Rugby Club, Billesley Common
How much: £25 per ticket including:
What: Three Course Meal Dance Demonstrations & Disco

Menu (please indicate your choice on booking)
Cream of Tomato & Basil Soup
*****
Chicken Supreme in a Mushroom & White Wine Sauce
Or
Fresh Poached Salmon in a Lemon Sauce
*****
Chocolate Fudge Indulgence or Belgian Apple Pie & Cream
*****
Coffee & Mints

Please book with Jeff Willett on 07808255293 or Sue Willett on 07808255129.
Or email willettbanqueting@hotmail.com

Taking Individual bookings or book your own table of 8 - 10. Please indicate menu choice when booking with Jeff or Sue. Closing date for bookings Monday 8th February 2010

Moseley strengthens squad prior to cut off date

Moseley has strengthened its squad in preparation for the final months of the RFU Championship season. - Full Story

 

Burns Night Supper - Friday 22nd January
The Burns Night Celebration is a regular (and highly popular) event in the MPA calendar and is fast approaching! 7 for 7.45, tickets £20

There are some tickets still available – but get in quick!! Please book your places either via Pat Petrie or Bryan Skeeles or via the club office on 0121 443 3631 or email enquiries to info@moseleyrugby.co.uk

 

Free entry to serving troops

As a 'Thank You' for the sacrifices made on our behalf by those who have served abroad on active duty, Moseley Rugby Club invites all service personnel to be our guests.

On production of valid current services ID they will be admitted free of charge to any of the club’s remaining RFU Championship and B&I Cup games at Billesley Common this season (2009/10).

Servicemen and women are welcome to wear their uniforms and they will undoubtedly get a good welcome - however we will understand if civilian dress preferred.

If there are any queries, questions or have any special requirements (for instance special access) please don't hesitate to contact the club office on 0121 443 3631 or email info@moseleyrugby.co.uk

 

The Right Reverend Monsignor Canon Tom Gavin

At the Moseley v Coventry match on Boxing Day supporters may have noticed the flag at half mast. Sadly we were informed of the death of Monsignor Tom Gavin on Christmas Day.

The Right Reverend Monsignor Canon Tom Gavin, the former parish priest of St Thomas More, Coventry, died early on 25 December after a short illness at the age of 87.

Monsignor Tom, who was born in Coventry, played rugby for Moseley and London Irish and gained two caps for Ireland while he was a serving priest.
Monsignor Tom also organised Pope John Paul II's visit to Baginton Airfield in Coventry in May 1982.

More than 350,000 pilgrims from across the Archdiocese of Birmingham and further afield attended the Papal Mass there. He represented Ireland in the 1948/1949 season.

He has been leading the Remembrance Sunday service at the Moseley Rugby Club memorial stone for many years and will be much missed by many in the club and beyond. His funeral will be held at St Thomas More on 12 January.

At the time of his death, Monsignor Tom was the third longest-serving priest in the archdiocese. He served at St Thomas More from 1978 until his retirement in 2004.

Monsignor Tom attended the Mass of Installation for the new Archbishop Bernard Longley on 8 December.

The Archbishop said: "I pray for Monsignor Gavin whom our Lord called to his eternal reward on Christmas Day. I thank God for his generous and fruitful service over many years and his faithful witness as a priest."

The Funeral Mass will take place at St Thomas More Church, on Tuesday, 12 January, at 11.30am. The Principal celebrant will be Archbishop Bernard Longley.

Full obituary here

---

The RFU Grand Draw

Members should have recently received a couple of books of tickets for the RFU Grand Draw. We hope you’ll support the club and either sell the tickets on or buy them yourself!

90% of the ‘take’ comes back to the club with the remaining 10% only funding the administration and prizes. This is a great opportunity to raise funds for the club and has proved so in the past with Moseley consistently coming high up the fundraisers list.

The club, as always, is very grateful to our supporters and would urge everyone to support this important initiative. Further tickets will be distributed shortly through team managers and are available at the club shop and behind the bar in the club house.

Once again the club will be using the funds to benefit the whole club – in the past the funds raised have been used for landscaping amongst other activities and this year is no different. Your club will use all funds raised through the draw to "Make Billesley More Welcoming".

This may cover a number of ideas and we’d welcome suggestions – they may include a clock on the 1st team pitch, pothole repairs, signposting, refreshments for visitors, PR, etc - perhaps we may be allowed to put up a "welcome" board on Yardley Wood Road (if we can get permission!).

Please make cheques payable to Moseley Rugby Ltd and either return stubs with a cheque to your team manager or the club office for the attention of Mary Bucknell.

In case you don’t have it to hand the address for posting is Moseley Rugby Club, Billesley Common, Yardley Wood Road, Birmingham B13 0PT.
 

---

Moseley v Coventry – Boxing Day

Stop Press - BOXING DAY GAME – “SCHEDULED TO GO AHEAD”

 

Weather to warm up for the Big Game

The weather is due to improve during this week with temperatures of 2C, 4C and 6C forecast on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day respectively. Even at the moment, the majority of our pitch would be playable (in the longer grassed areas). It is only along the marked lines where there is shorter grass where there currently are some hard patches.

Any remaining snow will be cleared from the pitch on the morning of Christmas Eve and then be permitted to thaw naturally for the next two days. There will be referee’s inspections and updates will be put on the Message Board. Full Preview

 

---

Moseley v Coventry – Boxing Day

Cov played Bedford last Friday and the club’s fixture this Saturday against Exeter has been confirmed. People at Cov are working behind the scenes to ensure that the club survives.

We’re pre selling tickets – with a guarantee!

So we’re planning as normal for a bumper crowd at this most traditional of local derbies on Boxing Day and will be pre selling tickets for the game at advantageous prices for rugby clubs and similar organisations. However we will provide a guarantee of a full refund if the match is cancelled if you do pre-book! So get you tickets now and don’t worry!

Why not get a hospitality box as a special family Christmas treat!

Call Alan Potter and Book your Box now! 0121-443-3631

Help wanted on the day

We are expecting a bumper crowd for Boxing Day and extra help will be needed for extra parking areas, gates and marshalling. Any much appreciated help from club volunteers will be rewarded with free entry to the game!

If you can help please get in touch with parking supremo Tom Russell on tom@russell-hobbis.co.uk (car park) and Alan Potter on alanpotter@moseleyrugby.co.uk or 0121 443 3631 (other help – shop etc).
 

---

COMMUNITY - Exciting camps over Christmas holidays

Looking ahead to the Christmas break, we have a very exciting two days on Monday 21st and Tuesday 22nd December at Billesley when Moseley Rugby Club will be running a ‘Christmas Rugby Camp’.

As well as delivering rugby skills there will be a lot of fun activities with prizes, ‘giveaways’ and a ‘Goody Bag’ for all participants, containing ball, water bottle,
t-shirt etc. The cost for the two days is £39.

Information: Richard Webb Community@moseleyrugby.co.uk or 0121 443 3631
 

---

GREAT CHRISTMAS STOCKING FILLERS NOW IN!

Club Shop opening hours – EXTENDED CHRISTMAS OPENING!

The Club Shop will be open on

Saturdays 13th & 20th December…… 2.30pm to 5pm

Sundays 14th & 21st December……….. 10am to 1pm AND

Tuesdays 15th and 22nd Evenings………… from 6.30pm to 8.00pm-ish
Thursdays 17th and 24th Evenings………… from 6.30pm to 8.00pm-ish

If you can’t make it during normal opening hours just call the club office during office hours - 0121-443-3631- pay by credit card and we’ll post to you! Simple as that! No excuses not to get your Moseley fill for Christmas!

New stock has arrived in the Club Shop

The brand new Moseley Calendar arrives this week with traditional Moseley scenes each month! (Sorry ladies, it’s not a “calendar boys’” special this year but its still a great addition for anyone’s stocking!)

In addition to extra clothing there is also a new range of low cost Moseley branded items including Key rings @ £2.50, Mouse mats @ £4.75, Car stickers @ £1.50 and Pens @ £1.50. Squirrel them away early for Christmas stocking fillers!

Not fresh enough already at Billesley? - Try the new Moseley branded Car Air Freshener!!! Only £2.50! Ideal for the journey back from away matches!!

Just arrived! - Moseley Christmas cards in packs of 10 @ only £6.00!

Also coming very soon! ………dress shirts, casual shorts, sweat shirts plus an alternative “hoodies” and T shirt.

Orders also placed for more - gloves, balls, kicking tees, head guards and body protection and beanies.
 

---

GET A BOX – HELP YOUR CLUB!

Could your business and personal contact help your club with ADVERTISING and/or SPONSORSHIP?

The success of our great club has only been achieved by the contributions of so many people over the last few years and every little bit you can do on this front, helps.
Boxing Day Hospitality Boxes are selling well

and there are

Great deals on Hospitality Boxes for Bristol game on Jan 9th!

All introductions would be greatly appreciated. All we need is a name and email address or ‘phone number and an idea of what they may be interested in and/or have a budget for!

Please contact ALAN POTTER @the club on 0121 443 3631or (m) 07796 171214 or email info@moseleyrugby.co.uk

 

---

MOSELEY PLAYERS ASSOCIATION

Anyone who has played for ANY Moseley team is able to join the MPA and is most welcome. The MPA plays a key role in keeping former players involved in the club and providing both help and advice to all areas of the club.

Burns Night Supper - Friday 22nd January

We warmly encourage former players of all ages to
‘sign up’. It costs very little and you’ll get invited to all the events!

Email info@moseleyrugby.co.uk with the heading MPA and your address and
We’ll put you in touch for an information pack.
 

---

MOSELEY OAK

Moseley Oak RFC has the full backing of Moseley Rugby Club evidenced in the clear statement from Moseley’s new Chairman of Playing, Derek Nutt, and from Moseley’s new President, John Beale, that Oak is the designated route in the career progression of Moseley players leaving the Under 19 Colts as well as former players who wish to return to rugby at Billesley.

Playing in Midlands League 3, new players are welcome – please contact us via info@moseleyrugby.co.uk or visit either the Moseley club website or the Oak website for contact details.

Match Report
Leek 36-0 Moseley Oak

Moseley Oak made the long journey to Leek … and leaked points to go down 36-0. But, despite being short of a number of regulars, they put in a gritty, determined performance against very useful opponents.

Peter Hoskins came back in the front row after a year out injured and carried the ball strongly. James Weaver was his usual hugely competitive self, and didn’t deserve a yellow card for supposed dangerous play after tackling a man backward and dumping him on his backside.

The much improved Christopher Solomon on the wing was defensively solid. And there was a welcome return from college for Jonathan Perks at full back. But Moseley were lacking their usual No 9 and 10 and had something of a makeshift back row.

All tried hard but Moseley lacked the fluency of Leek who knew each other’s abilities inside out. Their victory was based on a pack whose support play was excellent.

The Moseley eight put in a tough stint and time and again threw bodies on the line to keep Leek out. But gradually Leek’s battering ram tactics told. You can knock back four waves of assault on your line but the fifth will likely breach it.

Moseley made Leek battle for all their scores gifting them just the one when a fly hack amidst defensive panic landed in Ackerley’s midriff and he took off for the line as if all his Christmases had come at once.

Realistically, it was always going to be difficult to get anything at Leek. At home it might be a different story. Indeed, Moseley have their next two games at home and need to make that count, turning Billesley Common into a fortress. - John Duckers

Oak 2nd XV

Moseley Oak will be running a 2nd XV once again on Saturday. The team will provide an outlet for players either on the fringe of 1st XV recognition or those more social players amongst us. There is a need for more players to ensure this initiative is successful both in the short and long term.

Anyone interested in playing on Saturday 5th December or training please get in touch, with Dan Archer at dan_archer@hotmail.co.uk or Ben Jowett at benjowett@hotmail.com .

---

Development & ‘A’ matches
The Development XV will be visiting Stourbridge on Monday (23rd Nov) for a 7.30pm kick off floodlit fixture – support very welcome!

Soon after, eyes at Oxford and Cambridge Universities will be focused on the Varsity Match at Twickenham which is on Thursday 10th December.

Once again Moseley will be providing an ‘A’ team to play the light blues in their final warm up game before their big day. The match is on Monday 30th November at Billesley with a 7.30pm kick off (free entry).

---

 

Moseley's next First XV action at Billesley will be the two Friday night floodlit games in the British and Irish Cup, as Ulster and London Welsh help to start this intriguing new competition. See below for details of special packages. Read Joe Heaton's B& I Cup preview Here

 

These include special offers for the corporate boxes for between 2 and 12 people including hot meal, as well as a cash-back promotion for pubs, clubs and companies. (click on the image for details) Please support us in this drive to maximise attendances. The club will also be providing free admittance the two Friday night matches to those currently in any of the armed forces - providing they are in uniform and have valid ID. Call Alan Potter at the club office on 0121 443 3631 or email info@moseleyrugby.co.uk .

 

---

Moseley have been advised that the RFU Management Committee met this morning and granted the new consortium which is proposing to acquire the assets of Birmingham & Solihull Ltd, the right to take over the old B&SRFC fixtures until November 30th by which time the new consortium would have had to provide the RFU with certain specified assurances in relation to its capability to fulfill BEES fixtures to the end of the season.

Our game against BEES this Saturday at Sharman's Cross Road is therefore ON with a 2pm kick off.  Read Joe Heaton's full preview here.

The next First XV action at Billesley will be the visit of Rotherham on Nov 7th.

---

Moseley’s Famous……Half Term Rugby Camps and Clinics
Moseley Rugby Club, Birmingham City Council and Greater Birmingham RFU have confirmed the highly popular rugby camps and clinics for youngsters will again be held during half-term. They are open to boys and girls between 8 and 15 who already play rugby, as well as newcomers to the sport. More

---

Any more players? Or a shop volunteer?

Over the last couple of editions we made a couple of appeals for our supporters to come to the aid of the club. The response, as usual, has been excellent. Thank you! Here are a couple of examples:

Our Under 17 team was suffering with numbers due to having key players either missing, injured, with school rugby commitments or with representative commitments. This resulted in them having to play a league game with only 12 players. They still won and scored 50 points in the process only to have the local rugby union award the game to the opposition due to these numbers! However they will undoubtedly come up against better opposition who will make the gaps pay. Therefore the response has been terrific and last weekend there were 19 in the squad against Woodrush and the game was again won!

We have also been highlighting the tremendous progress that Moseley Oak has made. When the club needed two extra players to facilitate an historic first outing for a Moseley Oak 2nd XV, two came forward! This turnout has continued and was reflected in the 2nd XV’s first victory last weekend (Camp Hill). This side is playing once again this coming weekend (Silhillians).

In neither case should we be complacent and we would urge further Under 17s to get in touch and former Colts, returning players and those new to the area to join up with Moseley Oak to ensure that both these sides are strong and highly competitive. Once the Oak 2nd XV is a regular fixture we’ll move on to the 3rds, or Vets! All this is towards our ultimate objective of providing a full range of rugby on Billesley Common in a Rugby Centre of Excellence from the professional through to amateurs of every capability, age and both male and female.

So – onto this week’s appeal………

Club Shop – Volunteer wanted!

The Club Shop is busier than ever due in part to the excellent new range of items available - a big thank you to all our customers and our principal supplier ‘Stash’.

Thanks to the support of club members, players, parents and supporters, the ‘Club Shop’ continues to be a very important source of income for the club. We are expanding the stock and expect to be able to have a wider range of goodies in plenty of time for Christmas. As it is getting busier – we need to keep up and are appealing for a volunteer to help.


Hours to suit but mainly we’re looking for:

1st XV home games –Saturdays 1pm to 5pm
1st XV home games – Fridays 6pm to 9pm (B&I Cup)
M&J training/matches – Sundays 10am to 1pm

If demand continues we may look at some midweek evenings as well.
We would welcome one or more people (possibly sharing the times?) who can make a valuable contribution to the club.

They will join the growing band of volunteers who keep the club going ………and you get a cup of tea!

Please contact Alan Potter on 0121 443 3631 or email him alanpotter@moseleyrugby.co.uk

---

Norman’s Auction

Sunday 11 October saw the annual Fruit and Vegetable auction following the donation once again by Norman Johnson. And yet again it was a fantastic collection of fruit, vegetables and flowers accompanied by meat and game donated by Dave Warren. The catering team also pitched in with a supply of kids meals for auction!

The event was wonderfully compered by Derek Nutt who took on the role of auctioneer and raised a massive £678 to share between the Minis and Juniors and Moseley Oak.

A big ‘Thank You’ to Norman for once again supplying such an array of produce for an event that has become an institution at the club. Also my thanks to all those that helped with the packing of veg, and to Derek Nutt, Dave Warren and the catering team. An enjoyable and successful event!! - Chris Handy, M&J Chairman

---

All areas update - Thanks to Moseley Matters for the next dozen stories on this page

---

NEW PRODUCTS IN CLUB SHOP!

**New** Protective gear on the shelves. Splash Tops are in!
Club Shop open THIS SATURDAY 1pm to 3pm

The Club Shop range of product has been expanded to cover protective wear. This includes headgear, body padding and gum shields. The gum shields are modestly priced and are disposable and the club thinks are much better value for growing children than specialist orthodontic products. Further kit has also arrived from Stash including the popular “splash tops”. There are also a few remaining bargains in the old Orion range.

The Club Shop will be open to everyone this Saturday from 1pm to 3pm (bar, catering and clubhouse also open). The Colts play at home against Nottingham Academy (3.00pm ko) so why not visit the shop and watch the game? The Colts will probably be sporting their new set of splash tops as well!

---

SUPPORT THE PLANNING APPLICATION

Has your support been registered with the Planners yet?

Following the Moseley Matters Planning Special, please help your club by registering your approval.

This can be done simply “on line” and please remember to include your name and address – v important!

By email to: -
planning.enquiries@birmingham.gov.uk or
 
By post to: - 
Birmingham City Council
Planning Management
11th Floor, Alpha Tower
Suffolk Street Queensway
Birmingham B1 1TU

Please ensure you include the Planning Application reference on all emails/correspondence. This is: - 2009/04190/PA

Enquiries to: BCC Planning Direct Tel no. – 0121-303-1115

Planners Website: www.birmingham.gov.uk/planningonline

---

COACH’S CORNER

New: Comment from Head Coach Ian Smith ………..

Ian Smith’s new column will feature in all the Moseley Matters editions leading up to a home game.

Supporters Forum – Tuesday 6th October

Ian and Don Caskie are hosting a supporters’ forum on Tuesday 6th October at 7.15pm. This will be after 1st team training for half an hour or so in the clubhouse.

The coaching team is planning to be available to discuss points arising from supporters whether these are team selection, tactics or more general observations on the game. If this proves popular it could become the first of a regular event.

---

STUDENT SPECIAL – FREE ENTRY IN OCTOBER!

See Moseley for NOTHING!

Students get in free to October home games on production of a valid NUS Card! Moseley v Plymouth and Moseley v London Welsh! FREE!! Download the Poster for this offer here

---

SUPPORTERS COACHES – BOOK NOW!

Book now for Brizzle!!

We are proposing Supporters Coaches for the following away matches between now and the end of 2009:

• Friday 16th October @ Bristol
• Friday 13th November @ Bedford
• Sunday 13th December @ Nottingham
• Saturday 19th December @ Doncaster

The Friday coaches are budgeted at £20.00 per seat with departure from Billesley expected to be between 4:00pm and 4:30pm (subject to confirmation), returning to Billesley at 10:00pm sharp – an earlier return is possible subject to the agreement of the travelling supporters.

The Nottingham and Doncaster coaches are budgeted at £15.00 per seat. Timings to be confirmed in due course.

Consideration has been given to running a coach to Coventry. However given the good transport links between Birmingham and Coventry it was decided not to run one.

If you have any queries or wish to register your interest for any of the coaches please contact either by e-mail, telephone call/text message, or by stopping for a chat in the Club House.

Stephen Sheridan & Richard Lawton
moseleysupporters@googlemail.com or 07964 87 16 43

---

MOSELEY IS TOP NOTCH FOR CATERING!

“Donny Love the Panini’s”

As well as great catering for events in the clubhouse (formal and informal) Jeff and his team also look after visitors on match days. Here’s the latest plaudit!

Dear Jeff the Chef.

I would like to formally announce my love for the Moseley Ham and Cheese Panini, and my intention to compare everyone else’s catering this season to this fantastic toastie.

The Ham and Cheese Panini wins out over the Pork Sandwich every time at Billesley common. This will be my third season visiting Moseley as Media Manager of Doncaster Knights and I am tired of the lack of publicity for what is now possibly the second best food item in the RFU Championship.

Phil, Cornish Pirates, I'm sorry, your pasties are great but they are no Moseley Panini. Damian, London Welsh, as much as I love the Hog Roast it is not the same as my beloved Birmingham Butty.

Last Season the Moseley Ham and Cheese Panini took the third place Bronze in mine and Oli's travelling poll, after the second place Otley Pork Pie and obviously the always gold Castle Park Cow Pie. My traditional Yorkshire Tastebuds needed the comfort of the Otley Pork Pie, but the Ham and Cheese Panini won me over in 2007 and believe it is still the first thing I look for on the fixture list.

This season there is no challenger to the Moseley Ham and Cheese Panini other than the Cow Pie, and I do think it is time my favourite toasted sandwich on visiting Birmingham is given the credit it deserves. If anyone has something they think can challenge Jeff’s perfect Panini, I am willing to take it under consideration but I hold out little hope.

I would like to congratulate Jeff the Chef on creating the perfect toasty, and only wish more clubs would follow his shining example. Big game tomorrow Jeff, no pressure but me and Oli are planning two each. - Martin Haythorne, Media Manager, Doncaster Knights

---

COMMUNITY

What’s coming up

Moseley Rugby Club’s community work is exceptional. Here’s a sample of some of the specific events coming up:

On Saturdays 24th October and 5th December we will organise a
‘Come and try rugby’ session for local children prior to the home 1st XV matches on those days (London Welsh and Cornish Pirates).

Also on Saturday 24th October, there will be a ‘Moseley Mini and Junior day’, when three or four of the younger sides will be invited to play exhibition games on the pitch at half time. We will invite the section to nominate a couple of ‘matchday mascots’ and Bruno will be wearing the ‘Bull outfit’!

Also on Saturday 5th December there will be a ‘Local junior clubs day’ when clubs our Mini and Juniors regularly play will be invited to Billesley, when we’ll be hosting our annual pre Christmas tag festival!

Local Schools, in which our Young Professionals coach, will be invited to our next games! Our Community team are expanding! If your school would like us to provide coaching – let us know!

Or if you want to nominate YOUR school for a day at a match, please contact Richard Webb at the club office on 0121 443 3631 or email info@moseleyrugby.co.uk .

---

1st XV FIXTURES– B&I Cup 2009/10

Friday Nights are B&I Cup night

Our opponents in the new British & Irish Cup are Ulster, Llanelli, Aberavon, London Welsh and Bedford with the first fixture on Friday 20th November at Billesley.

The club and our supporters are delighted at the renewal of two traditional fixtures against Welsh clubs, Llanelli and Aberavon. We travel to the two Welsh Premiership sides but host the other three fixtures. Subsequent matches in the B&I Cup are subject to results.

Pool C
Friday, 20th November 2009 19:30: Moseley v London Welsh; Ulster v Bedford
Saturday, 21st November 2009: Llanelli v Aberavon

Friday 27th November 7.30pm: Moseley v Ulster

And a sneak preview of the Irish

Last Wednesday our B&I Cup opponents Ulster A took on their Munster counterparts losing 11-28 at home. Ulster visit Billesley on Friday 27th November (7.30pm ko).

As the coverage underlined “the interprovincial between the Ulster Ravens and Munster A at Shaw’s Bridge has been given an added resonance because of the upcoming British and Irish Cup, which starts in November.

The new tournament consists of 12 teams from the English Championship, six from the Welsh Principality Premiership, the A sides of Irish provinces Munster, Leinster and Ulster and three Scottish sides. The 24 teams have been divided into four pools of six and play each other once.

Leinster have been drawn alongside Exeter Chiefs, Cornish Pirates, Newport, Plymouth Albion and the Thistles, Munster with Coventry, Bristol, Heriot’s, Neath and Nottingham while the Ulster Ravens will oppose Aberavon, Bedford, Llanelli, London Welsh and Moseley. The tournament begins in November.”

The match report is on Ulster’s website: http://www.ulsterrugby.com/10700.php

The other pools
Pool A
Newport v Exeter; Plymouth Albion V Leinster; Cornish Pirates v Thistles

Pool B
Coventry v Munster; Heriots F P v Nottingham; Neath v Bristol

Pool D
Pontypridd v Cardiff; Rotherham Titans v Birmingham & Solihull; Doncaster v Ayr

Full Fixture List – Printed copy now available for download

The complete fixture list is now available for download from this website - Printed posters are in the entrance to the clubhouse.

---

MOSELEY PLAYERS ASSOCIATION

Anyone who has played for ANY Moseley team is able to join the MPA and is most welcome. The MPA plays a key role in keeping former players involved in the club and providing both help and advice to all areas of the club.

We are always pleased to receive any snippets of information about any old players from any of your eras. Please do drop Moseley Matters a line at info@moseleyrugby.co.uk

MPA Excuses……….

In a plea last week to get the final two players for the inaugural Moseley Oak 2nd XV match (which was successful!) an email circular went out to many. Some of our more ancient former players thought we were appealing to them to turn out. Oh the arrogance! Get real……………. we wanted your grandsons old fellas!

Anyway here is an assortment of the excuses they emailed back …………

- I’m not volunteering, I’m afraid. I think my last game for Moseley was nearer 40 than 30 years ago – apart from a ‘pub game’ a few years ago down in Wiltshire or Dorset, notable for the hospital pass I received from John Cattell!!

- I was very flattered/tempted…………… for about 5 seconds….I hope you get the bodies.

- My boots are at the bottom of the compost - sorry!

- I'd be only too happy, but I'm away for the weekend, haven't played for 45 years, don't have any studded boots and my jock strap needs washing.

More Drop goals please!

“I am now enjoying all of the current editions (of Moseley Matters) and the matches. Having been a loyal supporter of the CLUB since 1950, I attended the Club Centenary Dinner and have the celebration tie.

I would like to see more use of the drop goal as played by young Thomas in the Cup final last year. Best Wishes - Arthur Coulter

---

MPA Autumn Supper
Wednesday 28th October – 7 for 7.45 at the clubhouse, Billesley
Open to Moseley members, sponsors and guest (in fact…anyone!)

Speaker: John Bentley

John is one of a select group who played for England and The British Lions as well as Great Britain in rugby league. John made his union international debut for England against Ireland in 1988 and his career included a tour to Australia.

He switched to rugby league and went on to play for Leeds and Great Britain. He then returned to union with Newcastle and played for The Lions in 1997 in South Africa. Before switching back again to play for Huddersfield Giants.

In all he played union for Otley, Sale, Leeds, Halifax, Newcastle, Rotherham, Halifax (again) and Huddersfield.

He is an Honorary President of the Yorkshire Region of the rugby charity Wooden Spoon improving the lives of disadvantaged children and young people in Britain and Ireland.

Born in Dewsbury, he currently lives in nearby Mirfield with his wife Sandy and three children.

Tickets: £25 each - with availability for tables of 10.
Book early – this one will be popular! Dinner, auction and raffle.
Bryan Skeeles 0121 472 0744 or the club office on 0121 443 3631

Dates for your diary
Sunday 8th November – Remembrance Day at Moseley Ashfield CC. 10.55am sharp. There will be a bugler from King Edwards as usual.
Friday 22nd January - Burns Night Supper


Join the MPA

Former players of ANY Moseley team from ANY era are eligible and very welcome to join the Moseley Players Association. The MPA plays a vital role in the future of the club helping all parts of the club through advice, guidance …………..and occasionally finances!

It also is a great ‘club’ to join and meet up with former team mates at the many
social events they organise. We warmly encourage former players of all ages to
‘sign up’. It costs very little and you’ll get invited to all the events!

Email info@moseleyrugby.co.uk with the heading MPA and your address and
We’ll put you in touch for an information pack.

MPA contacts:

Hon Membership Sec: Roy Kerr; info@moseleyrugby.co.uk
Hon Sec: Bryan Skeeles; 0121 472 0744
Hon Treasurer: George Walters 0121-355-1283
Chairman: John Nolan, email j.nolan@nolanassociates.co.uk

---

COMMERCIAL

Great sponsorship and commercial Opportunities

This season we are planning bigger and better off field opportunities. You, our supporters, are so important in helping us in encouraging new advertisers and sponsors to the club - please continue doing this as you have in previous years.

Some of what we have on offer is listed in the commercial form at the foot of this newsletter.

For further details or to take advantage of these superb offers, please contact Terry Davies or Alan Potter, General Manager at the club on 0121-443-3631 or mobile 07796-171214. e-mail info@moseleyrugby.co.uk

Packages tailored to YOUR budget and requirement.

---

TV PRODUCERS WANTED!

Moseley on internet TV?

The club is considering providing some kind of match service on the internet - whether this is a highlights package the following week or similar.

The ‘pay’ is not quite Hollywood – but it can be fun!

To do this we need volunteers with experience of filming and editing – and the ability to make it available in a format that will work for both club and supporters. If you have this experience and can create and run with a project please get in touch via info@moseleyrugby.co.uk

---

MOSELEY OAK & DEVELOPMENT XV
Moseley Oak – the recommended route for progression

Moseley Oak RFC has the full backing of Moseley Rugby Club evidenced in the clear statement from Moseley’s new Chairman of Playing, Derek Nutt, and from Moseley’s new President, John Beale, that Oak is the designated route in the career progression of Moseley players leaving the Under 19 Colts as well as former players who wish to return to rugby at Billesley.

Playing in Midlands League 3, new players are welcome – please contact us via info@moseleyrugby.co.uk or visit either the Moseley club website or the Oak website for contact details.

Oak 2nd XV

As further evidence of the strengthening of Moseley Oak, the club fielded a 2nd XV game against Lordswood Dixonians at Billesley last Saturday. This was the first time the club has fielded a 2nd XV in a number of seasons and it is the intention to run a 2nd team on a regular basis.

The team will provide an outlet for players either on the fringe of 1st XV recognition or those more social players amongst us. There is a need for more players to ensure this initiative is successful both in the short and long term.

If you are interested in playing or training this week (or in the future) please contact Dan Archer at dan_archer@hotmail.co.uk or Ben Jowett at benjowett@hotmail.com .

For more information on Oak please contact John Richards, Ben Jowett or Jack Richards on 07970-868039.

---

MWRFC

Success breeds success……..

Moseley’s highly successful women’s team has enjoyed consecutive promotions winning Midlands One last season and now competes in the RFU Championship.

Training

Moseley women are training on Tuesdays from 7:30p-9:30pm and on Fridays from 7:00pm-8:30pm. Tuesdays will be shared with the Colts and Moseley Oak for the 1st 90 mins on the AWP then we will have the whole pitch for the last 30 mins.

This is a great time to join us to get fit with a view to full rugby training in September. Contact details are on the club website.

League Fixtures confirmed

In a change to the published dates on the WRFU website, MWRFC kicks off its league season in the RFU Championship (Midlands) with a visit to Nottingham on Sunday 11th October. The following Sunday the ladies play their first home game of the season against Cambridge.

---

CAREER PATHWAY AT MOSELEY FOR OUR COLTS

“Training, Learning, Earning!”
Club and College join up to deliver Sports Foundation Degree

Moseley Rugby Club and Solihull College have joined forces to offer a Sports Foundation Degree course that will help aspiring rugby players to kick-start their sporting and academic careers. Details of the two-year course are on the club website.…………….or on the Solihull College website www.solihull.ac.uk

“This is an excellent course. It enables me to obtain a professional qualification which will enhance my job prospects when I retire from my rugby career.”
Moseley Colt (and 2009/10 1st XV squad player), Callum Macburnie,

Full story: http://www.solihull.ac.uk/college_and_club_team_up_to_deliver_coaching_degree-46775.html

---

MOSELEY COLTS (under 17 through to under 19)

Under 19s
This Saturday

This Saturday in the main feature game at the club, the senior Colts will be playing Nottingham Academy. Kick off at 3 pm on the main pitch.

Match Report
Worcester 23-24 Moseley

Moseley U19 colts continue to misfire and this narrowest of victories against arch-rivals Worcester owes as much to an ability to scramble in defence, as it does to any attacking threat we posed. Worcester will feel aggrieved by the loss as they applied great pressure at times, only to be undone by some excellent cover tackling – noticeably by Josh Wyatt.

On a positive note, we are witnessing a week-on-week improvement and in the very recent past this is a game that would have been lost rather than won. The players are starting to build a resilience upon which the more structured approach to defending that we aspire to, can be understood and properly implemented. In attack, we always threaten but some of our decision-making is naïve. Again, this is an area where some improvement was noticed and work continues to improve this aspect of our game.

Our next game represents a step up in class as we take on Nottingham Academy at Billesley this Saturday. The academy combines the best talent from a number of clubs in Notts, Lincs and Derbyshire. Kick-off is at 3pm and all support would be welcome.
Tries: Dan Barratt (2), Mike Whettell, Scott Harman.
Conv: Scott Harman (2)


Under 17s
Next match

This is against Birmingham & Solihull U17s (league match) on Sunday 4th October at Portway.

There is a lot of hard work going on with the U17 group at the moment and the efforts of our fantastic coaching team, Tom Garrity, Dan Oselton and Nathan Williams, are beginning to show through in matches. However, we still need new players to build up the squad we already have.

If you were born between 1st September 1992 and 31st August 1993 (so in your first year after GCSEs) you qualify as u17s and we would like to issue a blanket invitation to all aspiring rugby players to come and join us at Moseley. We would also urge any existing players who are registered with us but whom we have not seen for a while to come back & join in the fun!!

Training is on Thursday evenings 6.45pm at Billesley Common and there is either training, or a match, on Sunday mornings. For further details please contact Simon Bartlett, Colts’ Manager or John Bellenger U17s team manager. Contact details are in the Colts section of the club website. - Simon Bartlett


Match Report
Camp Hill 26-17 Moseley

A creditable performance by an under strength Moseley U17s saw them beaten by a well organised Camp Hill team. The loss of influential 2nd row Tom Sankey halfway into the first half didn’t help and the fact that we had no replacements due to three late squad withdrawals, meant that Moseley played three quarters of the match with 14 men.

Having taken an initial battering from the physically stronger Camp Hill side, Moseley went into half time 5 – 19 in arrears. A well-worked try by Jonathan Turrell was the only score by Moseley.

Playing with the slope in the second half a determined Moseley, with James Baillie and Charlie Owen prominent, pressed hard and it was really difficult to tell that only 14 players were wearing red & black. Moseley were rewarded by tries from Connor Harris and Harry Griffiths (he also converted this one).

Camp Hill added another converted try to complete the scoring, though either side – with more composure and fewer mistakes – could have increased their total.

Fixtures 2009/10

Once again the Under 17s play in the competition that leads to National Finals in March/April 2010. All under 17 teams in the North Midlands are in one of 3 leagues – North, Central and South. The competition eventually leads to National Finals in Cup, Plate and Bowl

1st Stage - North Midlands U 17 Central League

Moseley Colts are in the central league (fixtures as below) and will play each of the sides once – either home or away (i.e. seven matches in total). The top two will go through to North Midlands League One, 3rd and 4th to League Two, 5th & 6th to League Three.

13th Sept Edwardians Won 65-3;
27th Sept Camp Hill (home); Lost 26-17
4th Oct Birmingham & Solihull (away);
11th Oct Woodrush (away)
25th Oct Sutton Coldfield (home);
1st Nov Silhillians (away) ;
22nd Nov Redditch (home)

Join Moseley Colts

Moseley Colts is the only ‘bona-fide’ club side to play against academies of Leicester Tigers, Bedford Blues, Nottingham and Leeds; amongst others, in regular, challenging Saturday fixtures.

Our objective is to help you to develop and achieve your maximum playing potential not only by improving core skills, but in addition focussing on tactical, technical, mental, physical attributes and promoting understanding of a healthy lifestyle and the effects this has on sporting excellence.

New Players – Under 19s and Under 17s

Any promising young players aged between 16 and 18 years who have aspirations of playing a good level of rugby are invited to attend training which takes place every Tuesday and Thursday (both 6.30pm starts). Please contact Simon Bartlett (for contact information go to www.moseleyrugby.co.uk click on ‘Colts’)

For further information on any Colts activities please contact Simon Bartlett, colts’ manager, Email: simonbartlett@blueyonder.co.uk ; Mobile: 07590 424785

---

BITS’N’PIECES

Contributions wanted!

Can you help with items of interest for the Bits’n’pieces section? A couple of paragraphs are plenty – anything with a Moseley theme is most welcome. Please email info@moseleyrugby.co.uk . We are also keen to have contributions for any other section of the newsletter and are particularly interested in hearing from former players – ‘Where are they now’ would be a great section to start up again.

RFU Grand Draw
Moseley will once again be fundraising by taking part in the draw. So far it has helped 100s of clubs and schools throughout England raise over £1.76 million. The RFU Draw Society provides all the materials and a host of super prizes. So there is no risk and no cost to your club. Just sell the tickets and keep 90 per cent of the proceeds as a tax free donation from the Society. More details soon!

The 2009/10 Grand Draw will 'kick off' in late October.

The main prize donor this year is Investec who are offering a £10,000 first prize. The second prize is a pair of return business class tickets to Dubai, donated by Emirates. There are 38 other prizes as well as special club and school Draw and a RFUW prize.

England v Argentina – Sat 14th November
Tickets for the Investec Challenge Series - On sale now!

Tickets for England’s second Investec Challenge match against the Pumas on Saturday 14th November are now on public sale through Ticketmaster, priced at £25, £45 and £65 for adults and £10 for Under-16s. After the recent summer series ended 1-1, both sides will be looking to get the edge at Twickenham. Book your place now by calling 0844 8472492 or online at
www.ticketmaster.co.uk

New RFU website launched
“Anyone paying a return visit to www.rfu.com will soon discover a whole new ball game.

The Rugby Football Union’s (RFU) website, rfu.com was relaunched on Wednesday 23 September 2009 with a totally new design and significantly enhanced features such as audio and video playback. With a dynamic results service, extensive fixtures listings and a host of other services, the all singing, all dancing redesigned rfu.com aims to become the destination site for all rugby players, coaches, referees, volunteers and supporters in England.”

If you’re still wondering what the championship is all about – try the video on the home page of the new look RFU website………..then let us know the answer!
http://www.rfu.com/News/2009/September/News%20Articles/250909_Champ_launch.aspx

RFU makes £5 million spending cuts as recession begins to bite

The Rugby Football Union has been forced to make a £5 million cut in its spending to cope with the financial implications of the recession, including a predicted 30 per cent reduction in corporate hospitality income at Twickenham.
Twickenham's profit-making capacity took a hit during last season's Six Nations Championship, with only 6,700 of 9,700 corporate packages sold for the matches against Scotland and France.

With the RFU's debts also expected to rise to £50 million by the end of the year after the redevelopment of Twickenham's south stand, chief executive Francis Baron said he had budgeted for another tough year.

"Last year in the Six Nations, when the recession was already under way, corporate hospitality was about 30 per cent down year-on-year," Baron said. "For this year we have budgeted that it is going to continue at that level.

"I think it is going to be two years before you start getting back to previous levels. Most companies are doing what we are doing – cutting your cost base during the recession because you don't know what revenue you are going to get."

The cost-cutting measures targeted, according the RFU, are "non-essential discretionary items" which is thought to include a reduction in staff overtime.

Despite the cost-cutting, Baron insisted that funding for clubs would not be affected. "We are maintaining our investment levels at the elite end of the game and are not making any reduction to the payments we make to clubs generally," he said. "All the funding the RFU provides to the game is continuing at previous levels."

The RFU's £2.3 million investment in the Championship, the new 12-club second tier of the domestic game, may not be enough to save Birmingham/Solihull, however. The club's board members met last night to discuss a rescue package after they were issued with a winding-up petition yesterday by the Inland Revenue.

The club have received £60,000 in gifts and loans from their members but are understood still to owe the Revenue £100,000.
Daily Telegraph, 23rd September

---

YOUR CLUB STILL NEEDS YOU!

Give Alan Potter your Introductions! Build the fund for new players!

Could your business and personal contact help your club with ADVERTISING and/or SPONSORSHIP?

The success of our great club has only been achieved by the contributions of so many people over the last few years and every little bit you can do on this front, helps.

All introductions would be greatly appreciated. All we need is a name and email address or ‘phone number and an idea of what they may be interested in and/or have a budget for!

Please contact ALAN POTTER @the club on 0121 443 3631or (m) 07796 171214 or email info@moseleyrugby.co.uk

---

MINI AND JUNIOR SECTION-

Under 7 to Under 16

“Proud Holders of the RFU Club Mark Award”


Norman's Auction”- Sunday 11th October, 1.00 pm

Our annual vegetable and flower auction at Billesley is due at Billesley soon!
All the produce is grown and donated by Norman Johnson and is acknowledged to be the finest around!

This is a Mini & Junior tradition and all proceeds will go directly to the Section's funds. Open to everyone throughout the Club and with prices ranging from pennies to several pounds, everyone can get involved in the bidding, even the kids!

The auction has evolved into a whole club event – and if you’ve never been, it’s quite a morning! Sunday lunch is usually available in a single lot with excellent meats and veg………………something for everyone!
 

---

Application forms for Season Tickets for 2009/10 can now be downloaded - at only £9.68 per ticket! Great value for one of the top twelve club games in England on any given Weekend! More details

---

02 September 2009 - BIG MATCH PREVIEW - MOSELEY v Exeter Chiefs 

Billesley Common - Saturday, September 5th 2009, k. o. 3pm (but come for lunch!)

Joe Heaton's Big Match Preview is back, as we entertain Exeter Chiefs for the first ever game in the New RFU Championship. Vanquished so effectively in the "Double header" game in April, Chiefs will NOT be coming to make up the numbers! It is the only place to be on Saturday - For your full preview click HERE

---

Fixture posters are now available to download or collect from the clubhouse/bar/office - Click HERE to download the poster

---

28 August 2009 - New Championship Regs

Get the full story on the exciting new RFU Championship. The full document "THE CHAMPIONSHIP REGULATIONS 2009/10" can now be downloaded here

 

---

Application forms for Season Tickets for 2009/10 can now be downloaded - at only £9.68 per ticket! Great value for one of the top twelve club games in England on any given Weekend! More details

---

26 August 2009 - Championship Launched

Cup Winner Andy Reay was back at Twickenham this week, representing Moseley at the  Launch of the New RFU Championship. RFU Elite Rugby Director Rob Andrew said: "The Championship will provide quality rugby for spectators as well as developing players, coaches and referees in a competitive and professional environment - Ten of England's Under-20 squad at this year's World Championship in Japan, including captain Calum Clark (Leeds Carnegie) and Henry Trinder (Moseley) played in this league last season so it plays a vital role in the future of the England team."

---

---

19 August 2009 -Fixture Posters

Fixture posters are now available to download or collect from the clubhouse/bar/office. We also need Volunteers for Leaflet & Fixture List distribution

In the run up to the first match in The Championship we are looking for volunteers to help us get the word out! If you can help your club you’d be most welcome to help with: Household distribution – Billesley area & Moseley Farmers Market on Saturday 22nd August (before the Stourbridge game) 

Shops, pubs and clubs -  we are also looking for volunteers to distribute fixture lists to businesses (shops, pubs, restaurants, offices, works etc) in the Moseley/Kings Heath/Billesley/Yardley Wood and Harborne areas. We would like to extend distribution outside these areas.

Farmers Markets - Volunteers are also required for the Saturday Farmers Markets in Moseley, Kings Heath and Kings Norton - The dates are:

22nd August Moseley Market
5th September Kings Heath Market Saturday
12th September Kings Norton Market

If you can help with any of the above or can assist with fixture list and/or leaflet distribution in any other areas please contact Martyn on 07810 850459 or email Martyn.Cowley@ECHarris.com Click here for more details

Click on the image to download the poster

---

---

 

18 August 2009 -New U17 Coaching Team - more help wanted

 

We are delighted to announce that current first team players Nathan Williams and Dan Oselton have kindly agreed to take on the role as U17 coaches. Nathan and Dan are excellent coaches who have been involved in the GB age group coaching set-up and are part of Moseley’s Community team. We feel really lucky to have them as part of our team, however, their commitment will sometimes be limited by essential first team duties. Consequently, we are still looking for someone with a rugby background, to join us, who has time to spare on Thursday evenings (6.30pm – 8.30pm) and Sunday mornings, to work alongside Nathan and Dan. Please contact Simon Bartlett for further information.

14 August 2009 - Moseley Matters

The following eight stories are typical of the content of Moseley Matters, The Club's free e-mail newsletter. Make sure you stay fully informed - sign up now

14 August 2009 - August Colts Fixtures!

FREE ENTRY: Double header – Saturday 29th August.
1pm Moseley Colts v Munster Academy
3pm Moseley 1st XV squad v London Scottish
The Colts have confirmed an additional fixture on Saturday 29th August against Munster Academy (Billesley – 1pm ko). This prestigious fixture is the only match that the Academy will be playing on a short visit to England and will follow their trip to Leicester the night before. The Colts will be putting out an Under 20 side.
Early September
The following weekend the Under 19 Colts are sending a side to the prestigious Oxford 10s on Sunday 6th September and follow this with a home match against Leeds Academy on Wednesday 9th (7.30pm at Billesley. Saturday 12th sees a further home fixture for an Under 18 Colts side against Luctonians (3pm Billesley).
Sat 29th August: Moseley Under 20 v Munster Academy (1pm Billesley)
Sun 6th September: Moseley Under 19 Colts at Oxford 10s tournament (Oxford RFC)
Wed 9th Sept: Moseley Under 19s Colts v Leeds Academy (7.30pm Billesley)
Saturday 12th Sept: Moseley Under 18 Colts v Luctonians (3.00pm Billesley)

14 August 2009 - NEW PRODUCT LINES IN CLUB SHOP


Following the success of our venture in to the selling of all club merchandise through our club shop we shall this season be increasing the range giving you our members even more choice when purchasing Moseley attire. We are expecting delivery of all new items in time for the final pre-season match against London Scottish on Saturday 29th when the 1st XV will make their first outing in the new kit.

Details of the exciting new design and product lines from ‘Stash’ are on this website and will be added to as new designs and products come on stream.

As last season, the shop will be open on Saturday afternoons (1pm to 6pm) when the 1st XV are at home, Sunday mornings (10am to 1pm) and other days to be advised.

You can always buy over the phone or arrange to call in during office hours. Call 0121 443 3631 or email info@moseleyrugby.co.uk for further information. Credit and Debit cards accepted – p&p and processing charges apply for c/d card payments. Cheques payable to Moseley Rugby Ltd.


14 August 2009 - PRE SEASON FRIENDLIES

The return of more traditional fixtures

The pre-season fixtures have now been completed and confirmed once again including traditional old rivals for the purists!:

Newport at Rodney Parade on Sat 15th August (2.30pm ko)
Stourbridge at Billesley on Sat 22nd August (3.00pm ko)
London Scottish at Billesley on Sat 29th August (3.00pm ko).

Both home friendlies are free entry, so please encourage friends and relatives to come and get a free taste of the season ahead!

Arrive early for the London Scottish game (Sat 29th August) and watch our Colts taken on Munster Academy in an Under 20 fixture kicking off at 1.00pm



14 August 2009 - Leaflet/Fixture List distribution volunteers

Volunteers wanted!

In the run up to the first match in The Championship we are looking for volunteers to help us get the word out! If you can help your club you’d be most welcome to help with one or more of the following:

Leaflet/Fixture List distribution

Household distribution – Billesley area

On Saturday 22nd August we are appealing for supporters to help us do a household leaflet drop in the area close to the club. This will be an invitation to our neighbours around the Common to come and watch the Moseley v London Scottish pre season friendly and other beneficial offers. We are part of the Billesley community and we want all our neighbours to part of and proud of what we are doing. If you can give us an hour or so of your time please met at the clubhouse at 10am and ask for Martyn Cowley.

Shops, pubs and clubs

On the same day we are also looking for volunteers to distribute fixture lists to businesses (shops, pubs, restaurants, offices, works etc) in the Moseley/Kings Heath/Billesley/Yardley Wood and Harborne areas. We would like to extend distribution outside these areas – so if you live in a different area and can help us that would be most welcome. The objective is to get the businesses to display the fixture list in a prominent position so some ‘people skills’ are important with this activity.

Again – please meet at the club as for the households leaflets. This activity can also be undertaken at a time to suit you – please discuss with Martyn.

Farmers Markets

Volunteers are also required for the Saturday Farmers Markets in Moseley, Kings Heath and Kings Norton where we will be handing out leaflets and fixture lists as well as promoting the new kit between 10am and 12 noon.

The dates are:
22nd August Moseley Market
5th September Kings Heath Market Saturday
12th September Kings Norton Market

If you can help with any of the above or can assist with fixture list and/or leaflet distribution in any other areas please contact Martyn on 07810 850459 or email Martyn.Cowley@ECHarris.com


14 August 2009 - WHEN WILL MEMBERS SEASON TICKETS ARRIVE?


Members’ season tickets are currently being printed by our superb printers Pinstripe Print. They had been awaiting the final line up of pre season matches which have now been finalised. Books will be posted progressively as applications come in but will arrive at the latest before the first pay game of the season.
NOTE: Pinstripe Print has been extremely supportive of the club over the last few seasons providing some excellent products for the club largely on a pro bono basis.
In the current recession however it is difficult for any business to continue to provide this level of commitment without some form of compensation. So if you have any printing requirements please think of Pinstripe Print first. Lee Evans at Pinstripe would be pleased to hear from you. Just look at our match day programme – the best in the league – if you want to see an example of Pinstripe’s product!
The club does appreciate the commitment of Lee, Nigel Lyons and all the staff at Pinstripe to the Moseley cause. Let’s help them to help us.

14 August 2009 - Massive Clearance sale of all Last Season’s Stock at bargain prices!

Massive Clearance sale of all Last Season’s Stock at bargain prices!

Moseley Rugby Club has chosen Stash (UK)……. as its new exclusive kit supplier. New Stash stock will be available in the club shop at the pre-season friendly against London Scottish on Saturday 29th August (3.00pm kick off – free entry). Telephone buyers and personal callers can contact the club office to arrange purchases any time (office hours) from Monday 31st August – debit and credit cards accepted. Charge to cover c/cards and p&p applies.

Last Season’s stock – massive clearout!
All last year’s stock must be sold – and available at knockdown prices!
First come, first served! Offers considered for quantities of items remaining!

The club shop will be open at both pre-season friendlies (Sat 22nd and 29th) as well as ‘on demand’ by calling the club office. A full list of kit available at special prices will be issued soon!

“SALE SALE SALE”………….. MASSIVE CLUB SHOP BLOWOUT!!

UP TO A MASSIVE 25% OFF ALL EXISTING ITEMS!

EVERYTHING MUST GO – OFFERS INVITED FOR QUANTITIES!

All Orion branded stock must go!

30 x Splash Tops: Were £35……….now £27 or £22 for childrens’ sizes!

24 x Track Suits: Were £59…………. now £45 or £42 for childrens’ sizes

41 x Home and Away replica shirts (2008/09)………..as little as £25
(EDF Energy Cup winning season shirts – could be collectors items!!!)

35 x T Shirts now just a tenner!

43 x Polo shirts only £15

13 x Hoodies and 14 x fleeces down from £35 to as little as £22!!

Pricing depends on sizes………………Call the club shop for details on remaining stock and sizes.

Quantity discounts: teams/age groups may wish to make bargain basement squad purchases at rock bottom prices!!

Contact: 0121 443 3631 or reserve your kit by emailing info@moseleyrugby.co.uk – only available whilst stocks last!!

Credit and Debit cards accepted (handling fees may apply).

Hurry……..they will all go!!!

14 August 2009 - Great sponsorship and commercial Opportunities

Great sponsorship and commercial Opportunities
Plus exciting new product range in the club shop

This season we are planning bigger and better off field opportunities. You, our supporters, are so important in helping us in encouraging new advertisers and sponsors to the club - please continue doing this as you have in previous years.

Some of what we have on offer is listed below, but for additional information or a package tailored to your budget, please give me a call.

MATCHDAY PROGRAMME from £550

POST PROTECTOR SPONSORSHIP £7,500

PITCH PERIMETER ADVERTISING £950

GROUND ADVERTISING from £395

CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP from £475

PLAYER SPONSORSHIP £300

MATCHBALL SPONSORSHIP £250

ASSOCIATE SPONSORSHIP £8,250

SCOREBOARD SPONSORSHIP £5,995

CORPORATE HOSPITALITY BOXES from £599

For further details or to take advantage of these superb offers, please contact Terry Davies or Alan Potter, General Manager at the club on 0121-443-3631 or mobile 07796-171214. e-mail info@moseleyrugby.co.uk

Packages tailored to YOUR budget and requirement.

---

---

10 August 2009 - New exclusive kit supplier

Moseley Rugby Club has chosen Stash (UK) as its new exclusive kit supplier.
Under a two-year deal, Stash will provide all the 1st XV’s playing kit and casual wear and will be the exclusive provider of all Moseley merchandise.

Stash was created in 2002 “with a view of enhancing the world of sport, and more specifically rugby, through higher quality sports clothing and designs which value not only the aesthetics of the athlete but also the performance”. Stash is extremely proud that all its design work and the vast majority of its manufacturing take place in the UK including the production of 100% of all match wear in its Leicester headquarters.

Full story and images

---

---

30 July 2009 - Coaching Opportunity - A unique opportunity has arisen to become involved with one of the most progressive colts sections in the country. Moseley Colts are looking to appoint a lead coach, and assistant, for our under 17 team.
If you feel that you have the necessary skills, have a minimum of the RFU level 1 coaching award and can commit to coaching sessions on Tuesday/Thursday evenings and match days on Sundays then we would very much like to hear from you. The positions are unpaid but we may be able to offer a contribution towards travelling expenses.

Please contact: Simon Bartlett, Colts manager: - simonbartlett@blueyonder.co.uk or through the club office: - info@moseleyrugby.co.uk - 0121 443 3631

---

---

30 July 2009 - Family Open Day

Valley Riverside Project is holding its First Family Open Day on Billesley Common on Sunday 9th August, 10am – 2pm. Families are invited to bring a picnic & to join in the bug hunt, stream dipping, nature walk, bird ID and lots more. 

A ‘Family Day Out on Billesley Common’ poster is available by following the link below. We would especially invite Moseley Rugby Club members and ask them to please pass this information on to any other local groups or individuals who may be interested. Print off some posters to display

---

---

29 July 2009 - Moseley squad boosted by prospect flyhalf

Moseley Rugby Club welcomes Andrew Borgen from Natal Sharks. He is a South African fly half highly rated in his native country as “a good prospect for the future”.

He was widely tipped to force his way into the super 14 squad during the 2009 season having previously had his way barred by the considerable presence of, amongst others Frederic Michalak and Ruaan Pienaar. In 2009 his route to regular starts was filled by Monty Dumond.

A UK passport holder, Andrew is the son of Natal player Brian Borgen who made over 30 appearances in a 4 year career for Natal alongside some of the best in the South African game in the late 60s and early 70s. More

---

---

22 July 2009 - Aldridge helped after fire

After the sad news that the clubhouse at Aldridge suffered a catastrophic fire in the early hours of 22 July, Moseley sprung into action and Alex Reid of Aldridge Rugby Club came to pick up two sets of rugby jerseys from the Moseley Rugby v Moseley Ashfield cricket match.

Aldridge launched a plea for help after the clubhouse at their  ground was destroyed, losing their bar and changing rooms all of their  playing kit and training equipment. The extent of the damage can be seen here

Anyone who can provide Aldridge with help should contact Alex Reed at alexsreed@gmail.com or on 07886 907589

---

---

22 July 2009 - Andy Hall Returns

Moseley Rugby Club has pleasure in confirming that former favourite and Scottish international forward Andy Hall has today signed a contract to return to Moseley for the 2009/10 Championship season.
Solihull born Andy came through the Mini and Junior system at Moseley and played in the Colts team that won the inaugural National Colts Cup in 1998 beating Leeds in the final. He graduated to the first team when still a teenager and will remain in the history books for scoring the last ever try at The Reddings, the club’s home for nearly a century, during the emotional final match against Worcester (which the Moseley won 34-17 with a tenacious display including a try in both halves for Hall).

 
Andy became only the second ever player to make 100 appearances in the Celtic/Magners League whilst at Newport Gwent Dragons, having played 55 matches for Glasgow Warriors, during which period he acquired full international honours, before switching to The Dragons in 2005. Moseley Head Coach Ian Smith said “We are delighted to have Andy back at the club. The experience he has gained away from the club will be invaluable and again add value to the existing squad”. Profile - Andy Hall

---

---

08 July 2009 - AGM and Supporters Forum

A good crowd attended a well received AGM and Supporters forum on Monday. Comprehensive reports were provided on all aspects of the club’s affairs.

Attendees heard that the Club's principal focus on operating within a balanced budget remains on track. However Mose is now a  £1million+  business and everyone’s help was requested to identify and introduce new commercial business to meet the challenges of the current economic climate.
Ian Smith and Don Caskie gave an informative account of last season and some insights into Moseley’s squad for the coming Championship campaign. While there would be some exciting dual registered players available, the core of the team, and the probable starting XV, could easily be directly Moseley contracted. Four other new players were about to be signed, and some good youngsters are trialing with the squad. The club has also appointed a dedicated conditioning coach to increase fitness levels. The appreciation of Ian and Don’s efforts over the last five years culminating in the Cup win was reflected in the loud applause given to them at the conclusion of their report.

The meeting also saw the official handover of the Presidency to John Beale from Derek Nutt who now takes on the important revived role of Chairman of Playing, that will oversee all non-first team playing aspects of the club.
Derek was thanked for his three years as President and wished his successor well.

---

---

08 July 2009 - Autumn Internationals

During the next week we will be sending out ticket application forms for the England Autumn Internationals at Twickenham. - Forms will go only to those paid-up season ticket holders who have requested the form, and must be returned by 10 August.

So, if you haven't signed up yet you are advised to apply NOW! More details

---

---

26 June 2009 - Rugby Union Supports Young Homeless People In Birmingham

A small project for young people who find themselves with nowhere to live has just kicked off in Birmingham . Last Thursday the first session of this new rugby union activity took place at the Milner Court shelter in St Andrews

This activity is part of a pilot programme run as a partnership between St. Basils, the charity which runs the shelter, the Wooden Spoon, a charity dedicated to supporting young people in need, Moseley Rugby Club, whose community department is providing the coaching and equipment for the sessions, and the Rugby Football Union (RFU), the governing body of the sport in England.

The eight week programme aims to get the young people active, increase their fitness and agility, and help with communication and team-building skills, all in an informal and enjoyable environment. The RFU also will be looking to support one or two of the participants through rugby coaching awards and encourage them into voluntary work alongside Moseley Rugby Club’s community coaching staff.

Dan Protherough, Moseley Rugby’s Community Manager said, "Moseley runs an extensive range of community activities throughout Greater Birmingham and this new scheme adds a new and different dimension to them. It ' s a great opportunity to help some other young people who have found themselves in a difficult situation. Some of the lads here have played the game before, others haven ' t but the enthusiasm of them all has been fantastic. Wherever you are, rugby never forgets you, and we looking forward to extending this scheme further in the future."
Pictured is Azim Salam (second from left) , Project Officer, from the St. Basils charity and Jamie Taylor (far right), Community Coach at Moseley Rugby Club, alongside some of the Milner Court residents.

25 June 2009 - Invitation from Moseley Colts

Moseley colts would like to invite any players in the u17 and under19 age groups for 2009-2010, with aspirations to play colts rugby at a high level, to attend our pre-season player/parents meeting on TUESDAY 7TH JULY 2009. The meeting will be held at our clubhouse at Billesley Common commencing at 7.30pm. This invitation extends to players who have previously played for Moseley at mini and junior level and who may have had a year or two ‘off’, as well as those who have no previous connection with the club but who wish to enhance their rugby experiences. Moseley Colts is the only bona-fide club side to play against academies of Leicester Tigers, Bedford Blues, Nottingham and Leeds; amongst others, in regular, challenging Saturday fixtures. Our objective is to help you to develop and achieve your maximum playing potential not only by improving core skills, but in addition focussing on tactical, technical, mental,
	Former Colt James Rodwell (third left) in the England sevens squad
and physical attributes and promoting understanding of a healthy lifestyle and the effects this has on sporting excellence. For further information please contact Simon Bartlett, colts’ manager, Email: simonbartlett@blueyonder.co.uk Mobile: 07590 424785

04 June 2009 - Moseley Matters Squad Update

Moseley Matters today confirms that

Dual Registered players
Returning players who would be dual registered with Moseley and Gloucester include Henry Trinder, Charlie Sharples, Jordi Pasqualin, Tristan Roberts, Dan Williams, and Yann Thomas.

Exciting newcomers who also come into this category this year include Freddie Burns (fly half), Johnny May (centre), and Charlie Simpson Daniel (wing converted from scrum half).

There are some other players covered by Moseley’s arrangement with Gloucester who will be announced later after the proper procedures have been followed.

Departures
The club would like to thank Paul Arnold, Ritchie Bignall, Ollie Thomas and George Davis, who have left the club, for their much appreciated contributions. We trust they have enjoyed the Moseley experience on the pitch, the training ground, the community development team and the social side of the club.

They all know that they will be made very welcome as and when they return to Billesley (apart from the 80 minutes on the pitch if they’re playing for the opposition!).  We wish them well in the future:

Other players
There are still a couple of other places to be filled in the squad and these are currently being finalised. All others from last year’s squad have been signed or are in the process of doing so. (Some are away on holiday). The squad is looking good! A full squad list will appear in next month’s edition. Sign up for MM now

 

02 June 2009 - Season Tickets plus Cup special

An application form for Members’ Season Tickets for 2009/10 can now be downloaded. The cost is still below other Clubs in the new Championship and with two additional tickets in the member’s book a full membership for all the Championship games, including three home playoff games, now works out at only £9.68 per entry ticket! Great value when you consider you will be watching one of the top twelve club games in England on any given Saturday!

In the past, Cup games have been additional “all pay”, at usual gate prices (this year £15 for adults and £10 for seniors). However next season we are offering a special to watch the three home games in the new B&I Cup for only £29 (£22 Seniors). This is only available to people who take out members season tickets and can only be obtained using the application form. Be sure to add your B & I Special three match ticket to your season ticket order.

More details

02 June 2009 - AGM Date Set

The Club’s AGM will take place on Monday July 6th. While this is the formal AGM of Moseley Rugby Ltd, it is an open meeting and everyone is welcome to attend. The formal business takes just a few seconds, and the rest of the evening is spent in informative and entertaining discussion. We therefore look forward to seeing you all again to hear all the plans for a great Championship and to the continuing revival of our great Club.

28 May 2009 - Revised Draft Fixtures released

A heavily revised draft fixtures for the 2009/10 Championship season has been issued, including the new British and Irish Cup. The regular season opens with a visit from Exeter on September 5th, while the cup draw finds Moseley grouped with Aberavon, Llanelli, and Ulster, as well as Bedford and London Welsh. More

---

24 May 2009 - Moseley’s Double International Scoop

Moseley Rugby Club is pleased to announce the signing of two Canadian International three quarters, winger Justin Mensah-Coker and centre Bryn Keys for the Championship season.
Moseley Coach Ian Smith said  "Justin was outstanding when playing for Plymouth against us in April and we have had good reports from Canada about Bryn. They will complement the returning and new, dual registered England Academy three quarters who will be with us next season”

Full Story - Profiles

---

23 May 2009 - Colts Presentation Dinner 2009
 

Moseley Colts Presentation Dinner 2009

For U17 & U19 age groups

Friday June 5^th

Join us for the celebration of a successful and enjoyable season for both our Colts XVs. Parents, Grandparents, Brothers, Sisters, Supporters are All Welcome.

Click Here for details

 

---

21 May 2009 - Club and College join up to deliver Sports Foundation Degree

“Training, Learning, Earning!”

Club and College join up to deliver Sports Foundation Degree

Moseley Rugby Club and Solihull College have joined forces to offer a Sports Foundation Degree course that will help aspiring rugby players to kick-start their sporting and academic careers. More

---

18 May 2009 - Summer Evening Touch Rugby at Moseley

Once again the highly popular summer touch rugby event returns to Billesley for six Wednesday evenings commencing 3rd June 2009, at Billesley between 6pm and 8pm. Teams of ten are invited to participate. These can be clubs, works teams, social, or come along as individuals and join in. The cost is just £15 each for individuals.

Prizes on offer include use of a hospitality box at a Moseley first team game, signed shirt, complimentary tickets to Moseley games. There's still room for a couple more teams. Previous experience is not necessary, and if players/teams would like a training/coaching session prior to the start of the league then it can be provided.

Further details from Richard Webb on 0121 443 3631 or 07960 450 874 or email community@moseleyrugby.co.uk or info@moseleyrugby.co.uk

18 May 2009 - Greater Birmingham Aaron Boyce sevens

The 4th annual Greater Birmingham 7s Tournament was held at at Moseley's Billesley Common home on Saturday 16th May.

16 teams competed for the Cup and Plate titles. our thanks to all the participants and to all organisers and helpers.

Click Here for photos of the winners

18 May 2009 - Annual Awards Dinner

The annual awards dinner on Friday celebrated a hugely successful season for many and varied aspects of the club.

The awards presented included 1st XV awards for Player of the Season and Players' Player of the season to Adam Caves, and most improved player of the season to Aly Muldowney. Colt of the Season was Calum McBurnie.

Moseley Oak's Player of the season award went to Jack Richards with Club 'person' of the season award to Kathy Duckers (Team Manager) Click on the photo to see more pics

John Orton, our cameraman for the last three years, showed a tremendous video compilation of the season. This is now available on You-Tube Here It is well-worth a viewing! Thanks John!

18 May 2009 - MWRFC Season report

Season Review by Women's Captain, Rebecca Smith

If I was to reflect on my first season as captain I would have to say that it has surpassed all of my expectations. We have won the league; been promoted in subsequent seasons; maintained an undefeated home record; had a brief TV appearance; won silverware at a 7's tournament and two players got engaged- and - except for maybe the proposals - I don't think anybody would have predicted these achievements.

Having lost some key players my only hope for the season was that we would not be relegated thus forming a platform from which we develop.

Many factors contributed to our success- an excellent team attitude; commitment from both old and new players; everybody striving to meet the challenge demonstrating skills individually that exceeded previous performances; an influx of exceptional new players; and coaches who ensured we reached our full potential as a team improving game after game- to name but a few.

So what next for the women's team? We have already beaten a team that we will face next season but this means nothing. Every game next year will be tough and challenging without exception. Fitness levels, skill base and core strength need to be improved throughout the squad something that every player has expressed a desire to achieve.

We also need to recruit more players to not only strengthen the current squad but also to create a development squad to ensure people new to the sport are able to learn the game.

Have I enjoyed my first season as captain? Apart from the downing of pints of bitter (lager next year please!) I would say yes- it has at times been challenging- as I'm sure you can appreciate trying to co-ordinate and please a large group of women is not easy- but thanks to never ending support from the coaches and my vice and club captains, Lorna and Moira, I have remained sane and if the girls want me I hope to emulate the season next year ensuring we reach our full potential.

Thanks ladies for a fantastic season!

Team                     P  W D L    F  A  Diff   B Pts Adjust
Moseley Ladies      12 10 0 2  313 82  231 8 48  0
Nottingham Ladies  12 10 0 2  324 76  248 4 44   0
Cambridge Select   12   9 0 3  111 67    44 1 37   0
Buckingham Swans 12   7 0 5  241 107 134 7 35   0
Longton Ladies      12   2 0 10 113 268-155 4 12  0
Oxford Ladies        12   2 0 10 82  356 -274 3 11  0
Witney Angels       12   2 0 10 38  266 -228 2 10  0

Click on the team photo to enlarge, and see Here for more pics

15 May 2009 - Chevvy Pennycook
 

Moseley is pleased to announce that Chevvy Pennycook, 22, has joined the club. A highly rated young No 7 from Bristol he can play across the back row, and represented England in the U20 Six Nations in 2007 and has been part of the Community Coaching programme at Bristol Rugby.

Moseley also confirmed the departure of back row forward Richie Bignell. Outgoing Director of Rugby John Beale said “We would like to thank Richie for his contribution to an outstanding season last year and wish him well in his rugby career. More

15 May 2009 - Draft Fixtures released

Draft Fixtures for the 2009/10 Championship season have been circulated, including the new British and Irish Cup. If confirmed the regular season opens with a visit to Bees on September 5th, while the cup draw finds Moseley grouped with Cardiff, Llanelli, and Ulster, as well as Bedford and London Welsh. More

---

13 May 2009 - Rob Thirlby

Moseley is pleased to announce the signature of Rob Thirlby for the inaugural Championship Season 2009/10. Rob is an experienced 30 year old full back/wing whose previous clubs and honours include Saracens, Redruth, Gloucester, Bath, and England 7s. More

---

May 2009 - Various

Nine Mosemen in "Team of the year" - Brian Dick's annual pick of the Midlands best XV has nine Moseley players, with a mention for two more! - More

 

British and Irish Cup Plans Announced - Ian Smith has described the plans for the new cup as "exciting" - More

 

Otley cancel final game - By agreement with the RFU and First Division Rugby Ltd, Otley Rugby club has cancelled our final National League One game of the season, which had been scheduled for Saturday May 9th. More

 

Mose finish eighth. - The FDR and RFU League tables have been adjusted to show Moseley finishing eighth in the table after a ruling gave a 0 - 20, 5 point win for the cancelled Otley game. Table

Sevens at Billesley - Only room for two more entries in the Greater Birmingham 7s at Billesley on May 16th - Now with Beer festival!- Download details now

 

Twickenham photos.

A growing collection of Twickenham-from-all- angles: Click Here        

  

---

 

05 May 2009 - Otley cancel final game

By agreement with the RFU and First Division Rugby Ltd, Otley Rugby club has cancelled its final National League One game of the season against Moseley which had been scheduled for Saturday May 9th.

As many as eight of the Yorkshire club’s players have been selected for Yorkshire to play Northumberland on 9 May 2009 and Otley has always released players for the County Championship even though it is strictly not required to do so. Otley would not wish to stand in the way of players after a particularly difficult season.  
 
Also, in Otley’s eyes the match against Moseley was considered to be a "dead rubber" and the club has no objection to the league points being awarded to Moseley.
 
The decision was conditional upon the RFU and FDR agreeing to no further sanctions being taken against Otley RUFC Ltd and that confirmation was forthcoming yesterday.
 
Moseley’s Director of Rugby, John Beale, who now relinquishes that position after seven years and who will step up to be the club President next season, commented “Moseley Rugby Club has always been quite prepared to play this fixture but we fully understand Otley’s decision to cancel the game. We wish the Otley club and its players well for next season” 

A ruling on the points to be awarded is awaited.

01 May 2009 -  Strengthening of the internal playing structure

Following the most successful season in the club’s recent history The Directors of Moseley Rugby Ltd are pleased to announce a strengthening of the club’s internal playing structure from next season 2009/10. Firstly the club puts on record its thanks to the retiring President, Derek Nutt.
John Beale, the current Director of Rugby was elected as President in February by the club’s Advisory Committee, which consists of all Past Presidents and current Vice Presidents, and will assume all the important duties of representing the club in that role from the AGM in July. Continues

---

30 April 2009 -  Welsh at Esher, Saturday 3.00

This will be the third time this season that Moseley will have played London Welsh. So far honours are even; in the opening match at Billesley Common on August 30th last year the Welshmen beat Moseley 15-19, but in the EDF Trophy Quarter Final at Old Deer Park on 28th February we won 27-21, an away victory that convinced the players that they were capable of going all the way to Twickenham.

Saturday’s return away league match was originally to be played at Old Deer Park on 13th December last year, but was cancelled due to bad weather and pitch flooding. The game will be played on Esher’s ground in Molesey Road, Hersham, Surrey. Preview

29 April 2009 -  Women win the league!!

After Cambridge pulled out of Sunday's match it is confirmed that our Women's team have won their league again and will achieve a second successive promotion. The team are sad not to be finishing with another win but are to be congratulated on a fantastic season and an amazing achievement to win the league in subsequent years.

---

29 April 2009 -  30th Annual Minis Festival

Sunday 3rd May from 10am to 5pm

Moseley Rugby Club is hosting its 30th Annual “Minis Rugby Festival” on Sunday 3rd May. The tournament (free for spectators) starts at 10.00am and has a record entry of over 1,200 youngsters this year in celebration of being one of the longest running mini rugby festivals in the country. It is also one of the largest participatory sports events held in Birmingham each year and especially for children aged between 6 and 12.

Eighty-three teams have entered and the five grass pitches, including the IRB standard 1st XV pitch and the 3rd generation rubber crumb All Weather Pitch, will be used throughout the day culminating in the finals around 4pm. Full details

---

29 April 2009 -  Colts win North Mids Cup

Moseley Under 19 Colts laid their hands on the North midlands Colts Cup for the first time since 2005. In closely fought first half Moseley scored their first try in the 18th minute  then started to impose themselves with some good combined all round team play involving backs and forwards, to go in 14 – 0 at the break.

At the start of the second half our Colts soon established their superiority over a spirited Worcester side and quickly scored 2 excellently taken tries,  With the game all but won our Colts went off the boil to let in two late tries – Final Score - Moseley Colts 33 Worcester Colts 17
It was great to see a big crowd at the Kings Norton ground, many in Red and Black, Thanks for the support.

This concludes a fairly successful season with a squad who had the potential to get the National Colts Final but fell at the quarter final stage. We now want everybody to support the Under 17 Colts this Sunday 3rd May in their National Shield Final at Worcester Sixways Stadium 11.0 KO. Good Luck to Cillian, Geraint and the squad. Full report

27 April 2009 -  Plymouth Preview

For the first time since the New Year the team will run out without the burden of the unthinkable, the possible exclusion from the Championship. With that lifted, and the Trophy safely behind the bar in the club house, the players can go out to enjoy themselves and show us what they can do when the pressure is off. While the Plymouth team has been having a bad spell of late, the side is no mean opposition and did beat Moseley when we played down in Devon earlier in the season.

Plymouth Albion RFC gained promotion to National League Division 1 at the end of the 2001-02 season. In the first season a creditable ninth place was achieved and since then the side has never been less than sixth. In both seasons 2003-04 and 2004-05 Albion finished in third place.

 
MOSELEY v  Plymouth Albion - Wednesday April 29th 2009, k. o. 7.30 p.m.

Full Match Preview

25 April 2009 -  CLUB DINNER AND AWARDS

Fri 15th May: 7pm for 7.30pm start

This will be highly popular this year and demand will be very high. Get in quickly !
Club Presentations will be made to teams, players, coaches etc throughout the club including the EDF Trophy. Disco afterwards.

Tickets are only £25.00 per head. 3 course meal + coffee. Vegetarian option will be available. Dress: Club blazer / black tie / suit (or ladies equivalent). Tables of 8/10 available. Tickets selling fast - so get yours now!!

Tickets / tables from Alan Potter at the Club Office OR from Jean Nutt via info@moseleyrugby.co.uk

Urgent Help needed for prestigious Mini Festival

The 30th anniversary Minis Festival or ‘Sweet Pea’ Festival on Sunday May 3rd will this year be twice the size of earlier years and we need help!

Adult volunteers are needed to help with car parking, programme selling & other Festival administration. Supporters from all parts of the club are encouraged to get involved – not just M&J parents and families – but Colts, members, sponsors, 1st XV players etc, coaches, management, everyone. Let’s all pull together and demonstrate what a great club we have.

Just 2 hours of your time needed!

This is NOT an all day commitment – a couple of hours each is all that’s requested from 8.30 to around 11 am – that’s all. Its good fun as well! The bar and catering facilities will of course be open all day!

Please email Louise Baggaley louise.baggaley@blueyonder.co.uk or call the club office on 0121 443 3631 to confirm your support.

25 April 2009 - Strictly Dancing Charity Night

Saturday 23rd May, 7.30pm in the Billesley Clubhouse.

Moseley Rugby Club in association with Willett Banqueting Services
Presents: A Charity Night of: Strictly Dancing, featuring: The Broadway Dance School, Birmingham

If you have been enjoying Strictly Come Dancing or love to dance yourself, join us in a night of fantastic dance & good food where you can just sit and enjoy watching - or get up and go for it yourself, the choice is yours!

3 Course Dinner & ‘Dance Demonstrations’ including:

- Couples Demonstration Dance: Spot the next Anton & Erin!
- Senior Team: Showing you’re never too old to DANCE!!
- Adult Team: Performing to Dirty Dancing (You won’t be able to sit still with this one it gets everyone wanting to get up and DANCE)

………..and of course lots of lovely music for you to Waltz, Cha Cha, Fox Trot, Rumba, Quick Step, Jive, Tango, Samba or even Disco!!!!

All for £25.00 per head inclusive of: Melon Fantasia; Poached Salmon or Butterfly Cajun Chicken (New Potatoes & Salad); Cheese & Biscuits & Fruit bowl; Coffee Service Table.

Making this a VERY SPECIAL EVENING!!!

Booking now: Jeff Willett 07808255293 or Sue Willett 07808255129
Dress Code: Men Dinner Suit & Ladies Black & White
More information: info@willettbanqueting.co.uk

25 April 2009 - Success to celebrate

Lord Mayors’ Reception

The Lord Mayor's office has kindly been in touch to organise a Civic Reception for the club to mark the Cup success. This is likely to be the end of the season possibly Sunday May 10th at 4 pm. If this date is confirmed supporters will be welcome to greet the players at Victoria Square, and/or meet back the clubhouse for a celebratory reception bar-b-que afterwards. We will keep everyone posted.

Other club successes to celebrate

While the 1st XV completed an historic victory at Twickenham, other teams in and connected with the club have been spurred on and achieved great success over the last few days and should be acknowledged.

The Under 17 Colts won their Semi Final of the National Colts Cup and now play in the Final. Our women’s team, roared on by stragglers returning from Twickenham, won a highly competitive game against their nearest rivals to top their league and secure promotion; and the Under 9’s won their age group in the prestigious South Coast festival.

Finally, Moseley Oak won a tight entertaining game under floodlights at Billesley before a crowd of 250 people to secure their league status for next season. Well done also to all these sides.

20 April 2009 - Twickenham EDF Final

Moseley Winners! Moseley Winners! Moseley Winners!

• See BBC Midlands today tonight (Monday) for highlights and live interviews from Billesley

• See the video - at the Clubhouse Weds evening before the Moseley Oak game. (see message board for timings).

• See the ever growing photo gallery on this website, keep sending them in please!

17 April 2009 - Twickenham EDF Final - Squad announced

Forwards - Nathan Williams/Adam Caves/Terry Sigley/Ally Muldowney/Richard Stott/Neil Mason/Richie Bignell/James Rodwell.

Backs - Gareth Taylor/Tristan Roberts/Dan Norton/Andy Reay/Jack Adams/Henry Trinder/Andy Binns.

Replacements from - George Davis/Dan Oselton/Paul Arnold/Dan Williams/Adam Whitney/Jordi Pasqualin/OllieThomas/Richard Vasey/Nathan Bressington/

Travelling reserves: Paul Cox/Mark Evans/Ben Buxton

In addition to the two coaches, team manager and medical team, also travelling with the party today are: Derek Nutt (Club President and last winning Moseley captain at Twickenham in 1982) John Beale (Director of Rugby and Moseley backrow in 1979 Twickenham final), Alan Thomas (Kit man and Moseley winger in two Twickenham Finals.)

1st XV club ties for current players, who have played in the requisite number of games, will be presented at the squad meal this evening.

Good luck to everyone.

16 April 2009 - Final Coach arrangements

Fifteen (now 16, Ed!) Coaches to depart from 6.45 prompt for Cup Final!!!
Please be on time on Saturday 18th – it’s vital that we get all coaches dispatched on time. Currently there are more than fifteen (now 16, Ed) coach loads and over 2,000 Moseley supporters planning to descend on Twickenham.
Return for all coaches is a 5.30pm departure from Twickenham (extended to 6pm if there is extra time in the final game) expected to arrive back around 8.30/9pm depending on traffic.

Click here for final detailed Information.

16 April 2009 - Under 17s also in National Finals


The Under 17 Colts are also in the later stages of a National Cup competition. They play Rochdale in the National Under 17 Plate semi finals at Doncaster RFC on Sunday (1pm ko) having won the Midlands Finals a fortnight ago against Burton. We wish them well also.

16 April 2009 - Moseley Oak play on Wednesday


We’re delighted that the North Midlands RFU has agreed to postpone Oak’s final league game scheduled this Saturday until next Wednesday (22nd – 7.45pm ko at Billesley). Our thanks go to the North Mids and also to Burntwood RFC for agreeing to the change allowing Oak’s players, officials and supporters to join us at Twickenham. Don’t forget to support Oak next Wednesday in a floodlit game at Billesley kick off 7.45

13 April 2009 - Twickenham Mascot offer now even better

 

Unique opportunity to be Moseley Mascot at Twickenham for only £10 - Tickets alone with this prize are worth nearly £200!

As part of the club’s usual commercial packages, there are opportunities to be the Moseley mascot and run out with the team in full Moseley kit at home games. However in view of the historic nature of the Cup Final and the likely demand from many quarters, along with trying to provide this opportunity to a wider audience, the club will not be selling this as part of its usual commercial packages on this occasion.

Instead, people can enter a draw and the winner ages of 8 and 16 will be the mascot at Twickenham. The cost is only £10 per entry and the draw will be held on Thursday April 16th at midday. The prize alone includes four match day tickets which includes one for the mascot. Further details of this exciting day are shown below. The winner will need to be transported to Twickenham and provide their own black shorts, black socks and black trainers or boots. However Moseley will provide a souvenir club shirt.

Entries should be sent or delivered to Alan Potter at the club together with the £10 entry fee before midday Thursday April 16th. Proceeds will go to club funds. Cheques should be made payable to ‘Moseley Rugby Ltd’. Post to ‘Mascot at Moseley’, Moseley Rugby Club, Yardley Wood Road , Billesley, Birmingham B10 0TP.

For more information click here or contact Alan Potter at the club on 0121-443-3631.

 

12 April 2009 - EDF Final at Twickenham - Preview

 

Our special Big Match Preview for the Cup Final has been written by Brian Dick of the Birmingham Post. It also forms part of a comprehensive special souvenir pullout section of the Birmingham Post which will be included with Thursday’s edition of the paper and be available from all good newsagents. This souvenir issue will undoubtedly become a collectors’ item, Read Brian's article here.

09 April 2009 - Moseley’s Mascot  at Twickenham.

Unique chance to be Moseley’s mascot for only £10!

As part of the club’s usual commercial packages, there are opportunities to be the club’s mascot and run out with the team in full Moseley kit at home games. This opportunity will also be available for children over the age of 8 to do so at Twickenham.

In view of the historic nature of the Cup Final and the likely demand from many quarters, along with trying to provide this opportunity to a wider audience, the club will not be selling this as part of any commercial packages on this occasion.

Instead, people can enter a draw and the winner will be the mascot at Twickenham. The cost is only £10 per entry and the draw will be held on Thursday April 16th at midday. The winner will be required to get to and into Twickenham themselves. (This can be done for only £10 seat cost and £15 coach fare through the club for Under 16s).

Entries should be sent or delivered to Alan Potter at the club together with the £10 entry fee before midday April 16th. Proceeds will go to club funds.

Cheques payable to ‘Moseley Rugby Ltd’. Post to ‘Mascot at Moseley’, Moseley Rugby Club, Yardley Wood Road, Billesley, Birmingham B10 0TP.

For more information contact Alan Potter at the club on 443-3631.

---

09 April 2009 - Moseley Supporters Player of the Season

Now that we know the date of our last home game of the season we have set the timescale for voting for the Moseley Supporters Player of the Season. Presenting the award at the Plymouth game on Wednesday 29th April will mean deciding with much rugby left to be played, but with so much splendid action this season, the choice is surely hard enough already!

Details here

---

08 April 2009 - Bedford Preview

Bedford Blues was formed in 1886 and plays at Goldington Road, which has a capacity of 4,700 spectators. Bedford was a founder member of the Guinness Premiership but the club was relegated at the end of season 1999-2000. Since then the Blues have been in National League One. Whilst beating Bedford is not essential for Moseley’s survival in National League One, failure to gain any points would increase pressure on the four remaining fixtures against Manchester (away 25.04.), Plymouth (home 29.04.), London Welsh (away 02.05.) and Otley (away 09.05.).

Read the full preview Here

31 March 2009 - Get your kit off!

Moseley Rugby Club is extending its outstanding record of service to the community by linking with SOS/iRB Kit Aid to collect unwanted rugby shirts and kit for distribution to disadvantaged rugby players in the emerging nations and in the Greater Birmingham area.
The focus of the appeal is Johannesburg (Birmingham’s twin city in South Africa) which ties in with the British Lions tour this summer and on deserving causes in the Birmingham area to promote rugby and social responsibility in our own city.
All rugby and other sporting clubs within the Greater Birmingham Area are invited to contribute to the appeal for which they will receive suitable acknowledgement. Former Moseley President and England International, Jan Webster will present the kit in Jo’burg and there will be other presentations in Birmingham. Details

---

31 March 2009 - Moseley win competitions appeal

from the RFU website.................

A RUGBY Football Union competitions panel tonight upheld Moseley’s appeal against a decision by First Division Rugby that they should complete all their outstanding matches in National League One by April 25.

The RFU panel ruled that FDR had breached their own regulations by instructing Moseley to play matches in midweek, before the final scheduled round of league games, without their consent.

FDR regulations state that matches should be played on Saturdays, Sundays or on Bank Holidays. Matches should only be played in midweek with the agreement of both clubs.

The panel also upheld Moseley’s appeal because the season, as stated in RFU Game Regulation 6.1, extends to May 25 and clubs have a responsibility to maintain their squads until that date.

Moseley have a backlog of three fixtures caused by two postponements earlier in the season and their reaching the final of the EDF Energy National Trophy.

Their (Moseley's) game against Plymouth Albion has now been rescheduled for April 28 (should read 29th, Ed.) but will only be played in midweek with Plymouth‘s consent. If Plymouth do not agree, the match will be played on May 6. (later corrected to 16th, Ed.)

Moseley‘s postponed match at London Welsh will now be played on May 2 and their game at Otley on May 9.

The RFU panel sat at the London Bloomsbury Holiday Inn Hotel and comprised His Honour Judge Jeff Blackett (chairman), Robert Horner and Peter Budge.

30 March 2009 - Greater Birmingham 7s In Memory of Aaron Boyce

Teams are invited to compete in the 3rd annual Greater Birmingham 7s In Memory of Aaron Boyce at Moseley Rugby Club on Billesley Common, Birmingham on Saturday 16th May. This popular and expanding tournament is designed primarily as an opportunity for amateur rugby players in the Greater Birmingham area to play some enjoyable 7’s rugby. However entries from clubs and composite or “themed” teams from both within or without this area are also encouraged. It is intended to be an enjoyable end of season event after a long hard winter and a celebration of all that is good about rugby. Details Here

30 March 2009 - Rehearsal for the EDF National Trophy Cup Final?

The Moseley players face the most demanding home challenge of the season on Saturday when they face Leeds Carnegie. This game exceeds even the recent Cup/League match against Exeter in potential difficulty and the scale of the challenge is measured by the fact that Moseley lost the corresponding away match in November 53-20.

The match can also be considered a rehearsal for the EDF National Trophy Cup Final at Twickenham in a fortnight. This is bound to be on the minds of the players in both squads, for none of them wants to be injured so close to one of the greatest days of their rugby careers.

Read the full preview Here

30 March 2009 - SCHOOLS - THE CHANCE OF A LIFETIME!

If you and/or your school are coached by Moseley rugby players, we would like you to have the chance of seeing YOUR sports teacher playing at the most famous rugby ground in the world – Twickenham - and to support Moseley, the club which supports you! CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

24 March 2009 - DONCASTER

after the euphoria of last Saturday’s historic Cup Semi Final win over Exeter, the Moseley players will return to earth with a very big bump, especially since they are bound to have had a physical reaction from the prodigious efforts they made for the ninety-three minutes it took to achieve victory. They could hardly be faced with a more demanding task than to travel away to Doncaster Knights, who are fourth in National League One and who are playing at the very top of their form having beaten league leaders Leeds in recent weeks.

Read Joe Heaton's full preview Here.

Meanwhile at Billesley SAT 28th Mar - MOSELEY OAK v Old Yardleians KO 2.15pm

                              SUN 29th Mar - MWRFC v Witney Angels KO 2.45pm

The Big Tackle with Austin Healey’ on ITV4 is set to feature this game when Healey visits Billesley with the Witney Ladies team

24 March 2009 - Book now for Mose at Twickenham!!
 

*All the details and booking form for tickets and coach travel here *

Paul Arnold writes............

‘Hi everyone ,
my aunty passed away last year due to cancer and to raise money for the Willowbrook Hospice (a charity that looks after adults who have life-limiting illness) the club have donated a Moseley 1st team shirt which I got signed at the weekend by the Moseley players on the front and the Exeter players on the back.

So what I want is as much money for the shirt as possible! I'm sure you would all agree it would be a great keep sake. The best way of selling the shirt would be a silent auction, you can have one bid only and if yours is the highest bid the shirt is yours.

All offers to be sent to my e-mail address before the next home game which is Leeds on the 4th, where I will hopefully be presenting the shirt to one lucky fan ! It is for a very good cause.
pd_arnold@hotmail.co.uk

Also I would like to thank everyone who has watched this year and thank you all for your support, especially at the weekend, me and the boys really appreciate it and we will be trying our hardest (as we always do) to win all our games from now until the end of the season!!!

Cheers and I look forward to getting a few bids for this great shirt hopefully one of you will be wearing it at TWICKERS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Arnie

ps if you know anyone who won't read this here please let them know !

'The Big Tackle with Austin Healey’ on ITV4 is set to feature MWRFC when Healey re-visits Billesley with his Witney Ladies team on Sunday March 29th (ko 2.45 pm Billesley Common).

It is not known when the edition will be broadcast yet, but supporters are urged to get behind our ladies for this vital Midlands League One encounter. A win for MWRFC will keep them on track for successive promotions!

Austin will know Billesley well as a spent a week here earlier in the season being coached by our community team to gain his RFU level One badge. www.itv.com/bigtackle

16 March 2009 - Thanks from "the neighbours"

Billesley Common litter pick – last Saturday

Our thanks go to the many Moseley supporters who helped with the litter pick last Saturday.

Both the Park Ranger Adam and the Valley River Project team were impressed with the enthusiasm and dedication of the club members, M&J players and parents who helped tidy our local environment.

Thank you from the club. It really does make a difference to the place where we play and socialise, and of course, to our neighbours.

16 March 2009 - MOSELEY v Exeter Chiefs - EDF Semi Final/National League double header

The stakes are high for both sides. The fully professional Exeter Chiefs, are only five points behind Leeds Carnegie, with a game in hand, at the top of National League One and need every point they can garner. The thought that they could possibly lose out, after three tremendous seasons, on both promotion to the Premiership and the EDF Trophy, will no doubt give nightmares to Exeter’s players and supporters alike. Their team will be fired up.

For Moseley the incentives are different. The importance of earning more league points cannot be overemphasised, as the battle to retain the eleventh place hots up and the possibility of not doing so is contemplated. On the other hand the thought that Moseley could possibly return to Twickenham for the first time since 1982, twenty-seven years ago, when the John Player Cup was jointly won with Gloucester, stirs the blood.
Joe Heaton's full preview here                               (Entry details)

---

12 March 2009 - Moseley 'no’ to edict of five matches in 15 days

First Division Rugby Ltd (the organising company which runs National League One) has just passed a resolution dictating that Moseley must play its four postponed fixtures in about a month – and that’s in addition to our other scheduled fixtures!

Then incredulously The Birmingham Post learned on Monday that Moseley could also be deducted points as well as forfeiting the game if we were unable to fulfil any of these rescheduled fixtures! (Please see article below).

FDR already knows that we will have great difficulty in playing these games in that time frame so why do this as well? This situation could seriously threaten our prospects for playing in The Championship next season.

First Division Rugby Ltd (“FDR”) has dictated the following schedule for rearranged fixtures:

“Subject to any acceptable agreement to the contrary (approved by the Board) between the clubs concerned, outstanding matches (as at 6th March 2009) resulting from earlier postponements, will be played on the following dates (kick-off times to be agreed by the clubs involved):

21st/22nd March
Esher v Coventry from 3rd Jan
Moseley v Exeter from 3rd Jan
(Double-header with National Trophy semi-final)
London Welsh v Plymouth from 10th Jan
Newbury v Doncaster from 10th Jan
Sedgley Park v Bedford from 14th Feb

Weds 8th April
Manchester v Leeds from 10th Jan (to be played at Leeds) London Welsh v Moseley from 13th Dec
Sedgley Park v Nottingham from 3rd Jan

Weds 15th April
Otley v Moseley from 10th Jan
Newbury v Nottingham from 14th Feb

18th/19th April
Cornish Pirates v Doncaster from 14th Feb
Esher v London Welsh from 14th Feb Moseley v Plymouth from 14th Feb
Nottingham v Coventry from 6th Dec
(or Weds 22nd Apr if Nottingham in Trophy Final

Weds 22nd Apr
Exeter v Otley

Notes:

1. There is no provision for Moseley beating Exeter in the Cup but there is for Notts beating Leeds! In that perhaps unlikely event we would have another game to fit in!
2. Moseley has the most games to fit in with four, followed by Notts with three.

MOSELEY’S REVISED FIXTURE LIST (as dictated by FDR)

Mar 14 Sedgley Tigers (Home)
Mar 21 Exeter Chiefs (Home) ND1 & EDF semi-final
Mar 28 Doncaster Knights (Away)
Apr 4 Leeds Carnegie (Home)
Apr 8 (Wed) London Welsh (Away)
Apr 11 Bedford Blues (Home)
Apr 15 (Wed) Otley (Away)
Apr 18 Plymouth (Home) - Provisional or EDF National Trophy Final
Apr 25 Manchester (Away)

Note: Moseley would be expected to play 7 games in 28 days and 5 games in 14 days! (Just so some players at other clubs can go on holiday? –Ed)

Moseley has a more acute position than other club in the division however it must be remembered that this situation was caused by unplayable pitches at three other clubs and only one at Moseley (and this was on the same day when most other fixtures in NL1 were also cancelled due to the same reason). In addition our full squad was made to travel to London Welsh and Otley before those games were postponed!

We cannot find any regulation, requirement or objective that any club should carry squads to meet what amounts under these proposals, to a minimum of five games in fifteen days and possibly eight in a month!

Our club may simply be unable to put out a team for all those fixtures for reasons already explained:

1/. Inability to travel mid week to Otley and London Welsh - (part time players also have other jobs. Even  the most sympathetic employers are under great economic pressures at present aside from whether it’s practical)
2/. Restrictions on dual registered Academy players - (there are regulations on the max number of games per week)
3/. Burnout & attrition rates - (health and safety issue)
4/. Injuries - (both in the normal course of this level of rugby and made more acute with these multiple fixtures)

…………….and nearly all clubs would also have the same difficulties.

In addition no consideration has even been proposed for the revenues lost from the home league fixture against Exeter which will be missed due to the “double header” which was also dictated by FDR. It was noted that FDR did not force London Welsh to play our Cup Quarter Final as a “double header” so there does seem to be a double standard there as well.

FDR has reported that the majority of clubs do not want an extension to the season beyond April 25th because for among a number of reasons “players have already booked their holidays for May”! (We are not joking on this one). But, after the resolution was passed, Nottingham requested permission to play its postponed fixture against Newbury on April 29th (after the “official” season ends!) “on the basis that (both clubs) agree it is in the best interests of player welfare”.

Where is the consistency in all this? Won’t our players be burned out and at even greater risk than Notts and Newbury’s players will be, as ours will have had more games to play in a shorter period?

Moreover last week the Esher committeemen stressed that their only concern was that all the last games of the season should be played on the same day – and that didn’t have to be April 25th!! So where is the beef? Why can’t FDR/RFU just dictate that the three fixtures which affect promotion and relegation have to be played on say May 2nd or May 9th?

Moseley people should be in no doubt that the enormous efforts which our very committed members have made over the last six years to rebuild our great club will not be allowed to go to waste and we cannot allow this inequitable position to be imposed upon us. We are therefore in the process of appealing this decision to the RFU.

Finally we are confirming financial arrangements for the ‘double header’ and will ensure that all our supporters, sponsors and season ticket holders are made fully aware as soon as possible. Information will be published here on the club website (and via a ‘Moseley Matters Special’ edition if this is the most appropriate way to disseminate the news) as soon as possible. We’re sure that our supporters understand that these decisions (and the financial implications) must be thoroughly thought through.

Click on the following link to read today’s story in the Post:

Brian Dick, Birmingham Post, Thursday March 12th

Moseley face points deduction thanks to fixtures backlog -  March 10th

10 March 2009 - Moseley v Exeter  ‘double header’.

Moseley and Exeter are expecting confirmation of a verbal agreement to play the match on Saturday 21st March as a ‘double header’. This means that the tie will be both a National League One game (points awarded at full time) and also a National Trophy Tie (option for extra time if scores level after 80 minutes).

The arrangement must be confirmed in writing and letters lodged with the Rugby Football Union etc, etc, before full details can be announced. The one certain aspect is that Billesley Common is the ONLY place to be on Saturday March 21st!

---

10 March 2009 - Billesley Common litter pick this weekend

Once again the club is embarking on a Billesley Common litter pick! Everyone connected with the club is invited to join us on ‘The Common’ on Saturday (14th March). This is the morning of the 1st team home game against Sedgley Park. Free admission to 1st XV game v Sedgley Park for all helpers on the day!

This is all part of our contribution to our local environment and not only important to show our neighbours that we care about the area, but also it does make a big difference and it is after all where we play and socialise!

Last year we had well over fifty join in and this year we’re aiming for at least twice that number! Many hands make light work – and it is actually quite enjoyable, particularly the before and after photographs!

There’s work for everyone whether it’s light picking or heavy duty hauling – depending on your age and physique!! We are planning to have a BBQ after and make it a great day by continuing the socialising into the 1st team game! meeting at the top of the outer car park (off the Yardley Wood Road entrance) for a 10.45 briefing.

10 March 2009 - Tag tournament and mascot this weekend

A big welcome this Saturday to approximately 100 young tag players from Greater Birmingham junior schools. They will be participating in a tag rugby festival on the rubber crumb pitch, and staying on to watch the first team game against Sedgley Tigers.

Also to 9 year old Clemmie Crowson who will be this weeks mascot. Clemmie plays for Moseley U9s and her hobbies, according to dad, include beating up brother and pestering parents for a dog! For more information on all our community and schools initiatives contact Richard on 0121 443 3631.

---

06 March 2009 - New face at openside

The new face in the matchday squad for the Esher game is Jake Abbott, a Worcester academy openside who signed on loan just before the transfer deadline last week. Profile

04 March 2009 - Esher preview


It is clear that Esher are no longer the team that Moseley beat at home early in November and who struggled in the lower reaches of League One for the first half of the season. The prospect of not being included in the proposed new Championship (they have been twelfth in the League for quite some time now) has concentrated their minds wonderfully.

Read the full preview here

24 February 2009 - London Welsh preview

Moseley travel to Old Deer Park this weekend for potentially the toughest challenge yet in the cup run that has swept them into the quarter finals of the EDF Energy National Trophy. London Welsh are the opposition on Saturday 28th, 2.00 k.o. £10.00 entry: Preview).

Welsh have described this as "our most important match for many years".

Meanwhile at Billesley a busy afternoon sees the Colts in their North Mids Cup game v Luctonians at 3.00, preceded by Moseley Oak at 2.15, with the Six Nations action between England and Ireland on the big screen. Why not start the weekend with France v Wales in the bar at 8.00 on Friday evening?

24 February 2009 - Tag Rugby for Grown Ups – May & June: Booking now!!

The hugely successful 7 a side Corporate Tag Rugby competition is once again running on the rubber crumb at Moseley during May and June.

The event is open for all companies and businesses in Birmingham, and to individuals through our new Tag-along nights. There will be two pools for teams to enter: - a competitive pool and a social pool.

Matches will run on Tuesday nights from 6.45pm to 8.45pm starting on 12th May for 6 weeks.

The winning team will get to use a corporate box at Moseley Rugby Club for a national one league game during the 2009-2010 season.

For all the information and how to apply can be found at our website at www.pro-tag.co.uk

For further information contact Gareth Taylor on 07870 185558 or email: garethtaylor@pro-tag.co.uk

---

24 February 2009 - 9 Moseley Players in Greater Birmingham U14 Winning squad

At the final trials held in January, nine Moseley U14s succeeded in getting through to the Greater Birmingham squad, the largest single group from any club in the region to make it through the trials. Congratulations to Josh Lait, Adam Bromley, Marli Lynch, Ollie Sankey. Ryan Beasley, Jack Lea, Will Hunt, Adam Saunders, and Phil Cadogan

Moseley player Jack Lea captained the team for their first competitive fixture when Greater Birmingham beat Herefordshire 22-0 on Sunday 22nd February. Moseley winger Marli Lynch ran in three tries to secure the team’s first win. A great start for our boys, marred only by a suspected broken leg suffered by Josh Lait. We hope the break isn’t too bad Josh. The picture above shows the lads (except Ryan who missed the game due to injury).

Well done lads and let’s hope it’s the first step to even higher levels of representative rugby for you.

17 February 2009 - Cornish Pirates big match preview

Cornish Pirates, or the Penzance Newlyn club, is a fully professional outfit and the club’s ultimate ambitions are to gain promotion to the Premiership and to field a full team of Cornishmen.

The club’s greatest achievement was to win the EDF Energy National Trophy at the end of the 2006-07 season by beating the west country rivals, Exeter Chiefs, 19-16. Having beaten Moseley in the opening round. Since promotion from National League Two at the end of season 2002-03, They have finished in the top 5 for the last four seasons

Last season in the League, honours between our two clubs were even. In December Moseley lost away 15-7, but won at home in April , 29-20; a splendid win as Moseley finished the season on a high.
In the corresponding away fixture in the first half of this season, Moseley earned a well deserved bonus point in losing 15-19, after a last gasp winner from Pirates. If this weekend’s match is anything like that we are in for some entertaining rugby on Saturday. Full Preview

16 February 2009 - Another Cancellation - but for all the right reasons

This weekend's Colts game, Leicester Tigers v Moseley, is off, but no frozen pitches this time. Saturday’s (21st) scheduled game has been cancelled due to nine of the Moseley Colts being involved in the North Mids Under 20s on Sunday.

They will all be involved in the County Championship Under 20s game against Notts, Lincs & Derby (Sunday 22nd) which has now been switched to Droitwich RFC at 2.30pm.

North Midlands are the defending Midlands champions, and reached last season’s national semi-finals. They got their National Under-20 Championship campaign underway with a 13-10 win over Warwickshire at a freezing Dudley Kingswinford earlier this month. In that game a penalty from Moseley fly-half Alex Warner sealed the victory for North Midlands three minutes from time. Warner’s late penalty was the only time that North Midlands led, though they had twice drawn level against a determined Warwickshire side.

13 February 2009 - Another Success for Mose M&J

The latest in a long line of successes for Moseley Mini & Junior section is marked by the naming in tomorrow's squad of Charley Thomas, who earned his place, most recently with a fine performance for the Midlands U20s in the County Championship against Warwickshire last weekend. Profile

13 February 2009 - Bridgwater & Albion Preview (Again!)

On Saturday February 14th the Moseley players will take a breather from the increasingly tense activity in National League One and travel to Bridgwater & Albion in the last sixteen of the EDF Energy National Trophy.
Though Mose are currently two leagues above the National Three South side, a tough challenge can be expected, as over the years the West Country club has progressed far enough in the Cup to host the likes of Harlequins, Newbury and Blackheath. So far this season’ Bridgwater’s Cup run has included wins over Haywards Heath, Havant, Rugby and Broadstreet, often with late scores in earlier rounds. (Preview)

06 February 2009 - Bridgwater & Albion v Moseley off

*Stop Press: Game off after 5.00 p.m. pitch inspection Friday* 

All M&J training and fixtures this weekend also off!

The situation has been monitored all day and at one stage the Bridgwater officials thought that they would be able to clear the three inches of snow off the pitch and stands. There was also a suggestion that a health and safety check was being undertaken on the car park at 4pm as Exeter's game has been called off for that reason.

Bridgwater called in a local referee to inspect the pitch late this afternoon. With the question whether the snow would melt in time and the additional possibility of a frost this evening a sensible decision was taken to postpone the game.

This means that Moseley will have four postponed league fixtures to play as the Cup takes priority and the rescheduled Cup game will therefore be played next Saturday Feb 14th weather again permitting thus postponing the Plymouth game.

While naturally this is disappointing, we would like to thank Bridgwater for keeping us regularly advised this week and for the timely inspection and notification which has prevented many wasted journeys tomorrow.

The good news is that the Moseley club house with the usual bar and food arrangements will now take centre stage for all the live International matches tomorrow.

---

05 February 2009 - Billesley Common litter pick – early warning - Saturday March 14th

Once again the club is embarking on a Billesley Common litter pick! We would urge everyone connected with the club to make a note in their diaries and join us on ‘The Common’ on Saturday 14th March from 11.00am. This is the morning of the 1st team home game against Sedgley Park. Free admission to 1st XV game v Sedgley Park for all helpers on the day!

This is all part of our contribution to our local environment and not only important to show our neighbours that we care about the area, but also it does make a big difference and it is after all where we play and socialise!

Last year we had well over fifty join in and this year we’re aiming for at least twice that number! Many hands make light work – and it is actually quite enjoyable, particularly the before and after photographs!

There’s work for everyone whether it’s light picking or heavy duty hauling – depending on your age and physique!! We are planning to have a BBQ after and make it a great day by continuing the socialising into the 1st team game!

---

Mums, Sisters, Aunties, Cousins, Daughters, Grandmas, Girlfriends, Friends……………All are invited to ‘Ladies Day’ at Moseley Rugby Club, Billesley Common on Valentines Day - Saturday 14th February 2009.

Come and try rugby (the non-contact version). All girls and ladies (7 to 70) are warmly invited to the club from 12.30pm until 2.30pm. Stay on and watch the Moseley v Plymouth Albion game - kick off at 3.00pm.

It’s all FREE!

No experience required! - Just bring your trainers for a FUN day!

There will be the opportunity to play rugby orientated drills/games, (at your own pace) on the all weather ‘rubber crumb’ pitch. The emphasis will be on FUN, The event will start at 12.30pm and finish at 2.30pm, (or as soon as you are worn out!!). For those able to stand the pace we will organise a (low key) touch rugby competition towards the end of proceedings. Everyone attending will be divided into appropriate age groups.

All LADIES and GIRLS that attend the event will be admitted FREE to:
Moseley’s National League One match v Plymouth Albion. Kick off 3.00pm.

Further details from Richard Webb, on 0121 443 3631 or 07960 450 874 or email at community@moseleyrugby.co.uk Any girls in school year 8/9/10 interested in playing rugby should also join the ‘Ladies Day’ on Saturday February 14th or contact Moira Boot via info@moseleyrugby.co.uk

03 February 2009 - Bridgwater & Albion Preview

On Saturday February 7th the Moseley players will take a breather from the increasingly tense activity in National League One and travel to Bridgwater & Albion in the last sixteen of the EDF Energy National Trophy.
Though Mose are currently two leagues above the National Three South side, a tough challenge can be expected, as over the years the West Country club has progressed far enough in the Cup to host the likes of Harlequins, Newbury and Blackheath. So far this season’ Bridgwater’s Cup run has included wins over Haywards Heath, Havant, Rugby and Broadstreet, often with late scores in earlier rounds. (Preview)

28 January 2009 - Moseley Half Term Rugby Camps

From 16 Feb to 20th Feb Moseley will be running half term rugby camps The camps are open to all boys (and girls) from clubs and schools across the city. The camps will be held on the rubber crumb pitch at Billesley, between 10.30am and 3.30pm each day.

Monday 16th February
KICKING MASTERCLASS for 10 to 15 year olds. Richard Vasey and Ollie Thomas will be delivering this day long (10.30am to 3.30pm) coaching session.

Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th February
Under 12s and 13s development camp, which is aimed at players who have aspirations of playing for a county or district team, this camp will focus on the core skills of passing, evasion, tackling and contact skills.

Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th February
Under 9s, 10s and 11s development camp. This camp is aimed at aspiring players aged 8 to 11 years of age who are that crucial stage in developing their techniques correctly. The camp is designed to improve all aspects of passing, tackling, evasion and contact skills in a fun and enjoyable environment.

Thursday 19th and Friday 20th February
Under 14s and 15s-whilst still focussing on the core skills of rugby the coaches will also give the players tactical advice and an insight into the roles of their individual position and the physical requirements needed to progress in the modern game.


Further information from Richard Webb, on 0121 443 3631 or 0121 236 0101 or 07960 450 874 or email at community@moseleyrugby.co.uk

27 January 2009 - Nottingham Preview (Sunday away)

In this weeks preview Joe Heaton poses the question "which Moseley will turn up?" - the team that played for the first quarter of the match last Saturday against Rotherham, or the team that performed for the last three quarters of the same game. If it is the former, Moseley can anticipate a heavy defeat, but if it is the latter then the Moseley faithful could travel in anticipation of a tight game and the possibility of an away win.

Last season, while Moseley beat Nottingham 28-21 away in the first match of the campaign, in December 2008 the tables were turned at Billesley Common with 36-27 Moseley loss. This season, in October, Notts narrowly won 24-26 at Billesley.
Full Preview here

After the diversion of the EDF Trophy and the comparative luxury of playing a team from National Division Three South to get the cobwebs out of the system following the three week layoff, National League One action returns to Billesley Common this weekend with an eagerly anticipated rematch against Rotherham Titans
The closeness of the two clubs’ league positions and the need for points to ensure an invitation to The Championship next season, adds spice and importance to what already was scheduled to be an intriguing encounter.

Last Saturday, in the Fourth Round of the EDF National Trophy match, the Titans were well beaten at home by Coventry 16 – 26.which made four losses in four consecutive games. Moseley can be certain that Rotherham’s coaches will fire up their team in an attempt to prevent a fifth straight loss.

Read the full preview here

19 January 2009 - Bridgwater Trophy Draw

Moseley have drawn Bridgwater and Albion from Division 3 South in the 5th Round of the EDF Energy National Trophy. The game is to be played on 7th February at Bridgwater's Somerset ground. The club's fluctuating fortunes since moving to their impressive new facilities 14 years ago were documented by Club President Mike Berry in July 2008, here.

Birmingham & Solihull Vs. Cinderford
Bridgwater & Albion Vs. Moseley
Esher Vs. London Scottish
Exeter Vs. Bedford
Leeds Vs. Coventry
London Welsh Vs. Cambridge
Nottingham Vs. Cornish Pirates
Sedgley Park Vs. Doncaster

13 January 2009 - Henley at Billesley for EDF Trophy action

The EDF Energy Cup and Trophy is the current incarnation of the RFU’s national knock-out competition, involving 132 clubs around the country. First played in 1972, under the sponsorship of John Player, the competition has evolved over the years.

Henley was founded in 1930 as Old Henleiensians (Old Boys of Henley Grammar School). The club was in abeyance during the War but was re-founded in 1954 as Henley Rugby Club and now plays at ‘Dry Leas’ in Marlow Road. The Hawks had four seasons in National League 1 2000-2002, and 2003-2005.

Henley Hawks have already won three matches in the Cup to reach this stage. So far they have overcome Rosslyn Park, Hertford and Stourbridge to earn the trip to Birmingham. The two sides have met on nine previous occasions, splitting their eight league games with Moseley winning a tight National Cup tie 24-20 in October 2004. The only time they have faced each other at the relatively new Billesley Common ground, the home side edged the Hawks 22-19.

On the face of it a team in National League One, playing at home, would be expected to beat a team in National League Three. The history of the Cup and Trophy competitions, however, is strewn with upsets against known form, so Moseley will have to be careful. Full Preview

Note: Season ticket holders are reminded that season tickets do not include cup games and normal admission prices will apply. (Prices)

11 January 2009 - Moseley and the AWP to the rescue!

For the last two weeks Moseley’s 3rd generation rubber crumb all-weather pitch came to the rescue of the England U18 selectors, Birmingham City FC, and many others!.

Friday 2nd and Sunday 4th January were vital dates in the England Under 18 calendar from which squads would be finalised for the 6 Nations matches in Italy (April 12th to 14th) and the AER European Tournament in France (April 5th to 11th). With subsequent squad training programmes starting at the end of January a delay in selection would have been a setback to the program.

England Under 18s kick off their competitive programme with a match against Scotland on March 22nd in Newcastle and the squad for the 6 Nations was announced on Monday of this week.

The original venue for the Under 18 Divisional tournament, Broadstreet RFC in Coventry, was frost bound and a call from the RFU to Moseley on New Years Eve kicked off the switch to the AWP at Billesley.

At 24 hours notice Moseley, were able to ‘scramble’ parking, catering and facilities for the 4 divisional Under 18 squads (North, South West, London & South East and Midlands).

Additionally coaches, selectors and spectators meant that over the two day festival well over 1000 people either played or were watched and importantly all were ‘fed and watered’ with a great number of compliments for both the quality and quantity!

And perhaps the biggest complement of all was being asked to do it all over again on the following weekend for the England U16s Divisional tournament.

Moseley’s frost-resistant pitch, which is officially approved for competitive matches, has also been hosting Birmingham City Football Club because its own training facility was frost bound, followed by Birmingham & Solihull RFC, and Moseley’s first team training. All of this was achieved without inconveniencing or moving the scheduled activities of local schools and other sports activities!

The pitch is in its second year and has proven popular with the entire community. “The only problem is usually availability” said John Caves, Moseley’s first-team manager. “Pretty much every evening from 5pm to 10pm it is in use from football clubs, rugby clubs and others."

NOTE: The All Weather Pitch facility is available for use by all local community and sports groups, (particularly football and rugby, as it is funded jointly by the Rugby Football Union and the Football Foundation). For availability please contact awp@moselerugby.co.uk or John Caves at the club on 0121-443-363

The club would like to thank all the volunteers who at short notice showed what is possible – even during the New Year holiday period!

06 January 2009 - Otley Preview - Off - Frozen Pitch

This weekend Moseley travel to Otley. The West Riding club is last but one in National League One, just above Manchester, It is not, however, Moseley’s job to help the Yorkshiremen out of this situation. On the contrary, a win with a bonus point would be invaluable for Moseley’s league position and status next year. However much Moseley people enjoy the hospitality and rugby comradeship in a visit to Otley, sympathy on the park must not enter the thinking.

Way back in balmy September, at Billesley Common, Moseley comfortably beat Otley 36-26 and earning a bonus point. Playing away from home, however, is a very different matter.

Points and positions apart, Moseley will be visiting one of loveliest areas of Northern England and a genuine rugby club that has not sold its soul to mammon. For that the Yorkshiremen are to be commended. Full preview here

Meanwhile at Billesley a furious programme of AWP action is coming together with non stop action from early Thursday until Sunday afternoon including Colts, Moseley Oak, England U16s, local teams and schools and possible Premiership "A" teams. Watch out for MM for full details.

02 January 2009 - Pitch Inspection Saturday

Stop press - At a 9.00 a.m. inspection the referee called the game off, with the temperature at -5 and forecast of zero by noon there was no choice.

In true rugby spirit Moseley Rugby club is anxious to make a decision as early as possible so as not to cause our opponents any wasted and frustrating travel time and our members and supporters any inconvenience.

There will another pitch inspection at 9 am tomorrow morning (Saturday) to confirm that the Billesley pitch is playable for the afternoon’s game against Exeter. The Chiefs are scheduled to depart from Exeter by coach at 9.30 am and this should facilitate travel for them and both their and Moseley’s own travelling supporters and hopefully avoid any wasted journeys.

Today’s pitch inspection at 2 pm showed that the pitch was playable and unless there is a heavy overnight frost the indications are that it will be playable tomorrow. An inspection was also made this morning and therefore comparisons can therefore be made between morning and probable afternoon conditions tomorrow.

By around 10 am tomorrow there will be postings on both our website and Message Board following the morning pitch inspection.

02 January 2009 - Under-18 Divisional Festival – Friday 2nd and Sunday 4th at Billesley

Moseley's 3rd generation rubber crumb all weather pitch wins again and will now be used for the Under-18 Divisional Festival today (Friday 2nd) and Sunday (4th). This prestigious festival has been switched from Broadstreet RFC to Moseley because of freezing weather conditions.

Matches:

Friday 2nd

2pm North v South West

3.30pm Midlands v London & SE

Sunday 4th

Two losing sides from Friday – 11am

Two winning sides from Friday – 1pm

Spectators very welcome. Plenty of free parking. Bar and catering facilities open both days. Please note that due to the last minute nature of the switch catering may be limited – but we’ll be doing our best!!

02 January 2009 - Friday night is Moseley Night?

Plans are under consideration for two Friday night fixtures this season. This would involve the fixtures against Cornish Pirates in February and Leeds in April. "We've had some good crowds for evening games in the past and there's always a great atmosphere" said Moseley Chief Executive Dave Warren. "It also gives a chance for everyone who normally plays for a local club on a Saturday, to come along and support us."

If the proposals are approved there should be a repeat of this weekend's offer to North Midlands clubs,  where a special quantity discount is available for the Exeter game, as a way of supporting both Moseley and our friends in local clubs. Ticket Offer Details

---

---

Older stories are moved to archive periodically - Click here for the "What's New" archive.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If your search engine has found this page in isolation see  www.moseleyrugby.co.uk for top rugby in Birmingham, ladies / women's rugby, mini junior and youth rugby, colts rugby

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

www.moseleyrugby.co.uk