Chairman's Update (Oct 2019)
Dear Fellow Millwallians,
This past Saturday saw the men’s first XV win an entertaining home match against Billericay 31-24. Our location in London means we will always be a transient club, but is heartening to see how many new players have joined over the last few months, and how they are gelling together into a side that plays fast, attractive rugby under the direction of coach Andre Louw. Those present at Millwall Park on Saturday will have noticed the shiny new kit sponsored by Convedo, to whom we are very grateful.
The previous weekend saw a similarly enjoyable occasion on Millwall Park, as the Venus picked up their first league victory of the season 10-7 against Rosslyn Park. It was a seesaw, physical game which left many walking wounded. The roar which greeted the final whistle showed just how much the win meant to the players, coaches and spectators alike.
It is hard to believe that there are only four games left in the Rugby World Cup. Less hard to believe is the fact that Ireland have still never progressed past a quarter final. The clubhouse will be opening for the England v New Zealand semi-final this Saturday (26th Oct) at 9am, before the men’s second XV play Stanford-le-hope on Millwall Park at 2pm. We will also be opening early for the final the following week, and if you still haven't quite got your fill of top-level rugby just yet, keep an eye on your inbox next week for an email from Shaf Visram, International Tickets Coordinator, who will be sharing details on how paid up MRFC members are able to apply for apply for 6 Nations tickets through the club.
Youth
The Millwall Lions first matches of the season took place away against Southwark Tigers on Sunday 6th October. Millwall fielded teams in the U6s, U8s, U10s & U12s age groups, all of which took part in mixed training sessions then small sided games/ matches. Thanks again to the volunteers who have given up their time so far this season to assist our Youth Squad - it really helps and it is reflecting in the number of new players we are now retaining.
Call for Volunteers - Poppy Appeal
As in previous years, Millwall Rugby Club are assisting with Poppy Appeal. Can you help us support the Royal British Legion's biggest campaign by giving some time to hand out poppies and do some face-to-face fundraising for this worthy cause in Canary Wharf? With all money raised going to help support serving and ex-serving members of the Armed Forces community and their families, evening commuters always prove to be quite friendly and generous. Last year we collected over £2,300! We've been asked to do the collections between 5pm and 7pm on 28, 29, 30 October and 1 November at Canary Wharf DLR, and 4 - 8 November at the Jubilee Line station. If you’re able to get involved on any of these evenings, please drop me a line on chairman@millwallrugby.comor 07949 127229.
Millwall RFC Blazers
To celebrate our 25th Season, we will be arranging club blazers for anyone interested. Please note, if you order a blazer you will be required to visit the tailor’s shop in Bethnal Green for measurements and following that appointment, blazers should be ready to collect 6 - 8 weeks later. Blazers are £120 each and money must be paid up front. Please email Paul Fisher on clubhouse@millwallrugby.comif you are interested in purchasing one. We will then update you on the payment process, as well as arrange a date for a group visit to get measured up
Merchandise Bundles
If you aren’t really a blazer wearer but still want to get that rugby club stash - the first drop of Millwall Rugby kit bundles is here! Worth over £80 if purchased individually, MRFC members are now able to buy this branded set that includes shorts, socks, warm up top and polo for just £60….and you can add on a tie for only £10! Check out the poster at the bottom of the page for more information. Please email Seamus McGowan on merchandise@millwallrugby.com or enquire at the Clubhouse Bar for further details. Deadline for first bundle orders is Wednesday 30th October. Please note that cufflinks, ties, mouth guards and studs can only be purchased at the Clubhouse but all other individual items can be ordered online at the Raging Bull Millwall RFC online shop.
Clubhouse Access
With the new membership scheme now in operation, from the 1st November will be enforcing our rules as a members-only club where non-members must be signed in by a current member when entering the clubhouse. Member’s guests are entitled to be signed into the clubhouse up to a maximum of 5 times per year, and after 5 visits guests must become members to continue to use the clubhouse facilities. Members are also reminded that they are responsible for their guest(s) whilst on the premises.
Event: Ladies Rugby Taster
Millwall Venus Ladies team is hosting another rugby taster session on Wednesday 6th November. All abilities and experience are welcome. This is the perfect time to give rugby a try or get back into the sport if you've played before. The session will be non-contact and lots of fun. So just bring yourself in some sports kit and come and meet the friendliest rugby team in the area! The session starts at 7.30pm on Millwall Park, E14 3DN and will be followed by drinks at the clubhouse. Please contact Rachel on ladieschair@millwallrugby.com for more information or if you have any questions.
Movember
This year the club is taking part in the Movember Foundation's annual Mo Grow. The foundation supports a number of important men's health causes, including the fight against prostate cancer, testicular cancer and men's mental health and suicide prevention. Sign up to the Millwall team using this link, set up your profile, and get going on growing that tash! Then share with family, friends, colleagues and on social media to start the donations coming in. Don't forget to tag @MillwallRugby and @Movember of course. At the end of the month, the best Millwall moustache will be immortalised on the club Instagram. The top fundraising amateur team will also receive a prize. All for a great cause! Any questions, contact Shek on menschair@millwallrugby.com.
Let's go to work,
Toby Sanders
Chairman