With the 17/18 season reaching its conclusion it was time for the annual end of season dinner to bring some order back to the clubhouse, and for us all to reflect on the long season.

Victory for the A XV, securing top spot in the league and promotion for next year was the talk on the lips of many. The 1st XV were licking some late season wounds after missing out on what seemed to be an all but certain 3rd place spot. However, nothing is ever certain in the beautiful game.

Circa 100 guests filled the tables of the clubhouse with no inch left unfilled, and all were treated to a sublime three course meal of patê, beef bourguignon and a well-stocked cheese board to finish.

Then came the roundup of the season, showing that the club truly is moving from strength to strength. Two extremely strong sides, and the rise of the Ex A XV promising to be a frequent occurrence next year. It was a scene many had not witnessed for years, all three pitches occupied by the blue and white stripes, every changing room filled, and the bar packed to the doors. A sign of things to come in the not too distant future.

The awards of course were the much-anticipated main event of the evening, as hushed tones descended around the many players and guests alike:

• Top Try Scorer: Jamal Gobir (21)
• 1st XV Player of the Year: Mike Ubee
• A XV Player of the Year: Graham Condon
• Most Improved: Josh Ajiboye
• Best Newcomer: Diarmuid Raleigh
• Clubman of the Year: Jack Powter
• Volunteer of the Year: Roshini Jayaweera
• Worst Injury: Tom Scott

Congratulations to all the winners, commiserations to those that were so close; including but not limited to Rory ‘the full package’ Palmer who narrowly missed out to Jamal on tries, Simon ‘post punisher’ Burgess who found out that punching the post in frustration mid-game can land you with a broken hand. Not forgetting both Austin Raleigh and Malachi Connolly who both required surgery for their seasons injuries but who cannot compare to the dislocation and fracture that Tom Scott suffered at the rounded gluteus of Alex Norcliffe. The injury curse of the A XV continues.

Each season the club grows in both number and stature, with an ever increasing minis section the pipeline to connect the junior and senior sides of the club grows ever closer. Thank you to all involved in the end of season dinner, it could never have happened without your exceptional hard work and fine catering skills. Thank you to all the supporters who turn out rain or shine on the field of dreams and beyond, throughout the season, and welcome to the new faces who we look forward to seeing again next season.

Onwards and upwards the club continues to lofty heights, with exciting projects instore. But for now, it is time to look to the 7s circuit and of course our beloved preseason sessions, as well as the touch rugby sessions that will be running over summer.

Enjoy the break and see many of you at the start of the 18/19 season, for hopefully another good cup and league run.

Go Ds!