Dear members,
Upcoming Centenary Celebrations
Our amazing rugby club marks its 100th anniversary in only two years. From its humble origins, Old Reigatian RFC has grown to become a powerhouse in Surrey and English Rugby. None of this would have been possible without the selfless dedication shown by its many volunteers over the last century. So, we are looking to recognise this by holding a series of special anniversary events between now and then.
Join us on this journey by sharing your own experiences at the club. Whether from the 1950s or now, we would love to hear your stories and collectively rejoice in your successes or lament your cruel sporting losses! So put pen to paper and share these memories (funny or dastardly) for all to enjoy. Anonymity can be arranged!
Centenary Book
We are working on a Centenary Book to record the club’s history from the founding players who built it, their successes on the field & how we transitioned from a closed club to an open one that has spread itself throughout the local community. It will include the tale of 2 clubhouses and arson attacks. Record the introduction and exponential development of Mini and Junior rugby, including the enormous contribution & success of Girls’ rugby. It will tell of the bonds formed in every generation that have blended our club into what it is today and help chart its direction for the future.
The book will be completed in time for the 2027 season and will be full of anecdotes, stories, and photographs. It is not too late to contribute your articles, anecdotes, and photographs.
We are offering you the opportunity to become a patron of this book and have your name printed in it. For £50, we will include your name (or the name of a loved one) within a special ‘Patrons’ section. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity would be an excellent way for you to support the club. We are also looking to encourage businesses through advertisements.
Centenary Walkway
We have launched the sale of personalised tiles to create the ‘Old Reigatian Centenary Walkway’, which will be a suitable way to honour and recognise our fantastic club’s enjoyment, friendships and successes.
The walkway will be in front of the clubhouse, in line with the existing paved area. The granite tiles, currently on display in the clubhouse, come in two sizes: 200 x 200mm or 400 x 400mm. You can purchase tiles directly at the club or online.
Prices are:
- 200 x 200mm tile – £150.00
- 400 x 400mm tile – £250.00
- Corporate 400 x 400mm tile including company logo – £400.00
All funds raised from the sale of tiles and book patronages will go towards our ongoing celebrations and club legacy plans. We can also claim gift aid on all donations.
The Centenary Planning Team is working hard to bring everyone together for our Centenary celebrations. As you can imagine, a lot has happened in the last 100 years! Please let us know if you can assist us in any way. We welcome all suggestions.
Photographs are invaluable (especially those that record the early years of Old Reigatian RFC). Look at your pictures and albums to see if any are there.
Let’s bring our membership together—near or far, young and old—to celebrate 100 years at Old Reigatian RFC. This is our chance to showcase you and your extraordinary contributions over the years. Please send all contributions to Phil Smith at smifffs@btinternet.com.
Yours faithfully,
David Forsyth
Chair of Centenary Planning Team
