JUST as soon as one successful season ends, thoughts turn to how to build on it, writes Dave Webb.

On a balmy Friday night Chard Ladies RFC held an Inner Warrior event in conjunction with the RFU, as part of a nationwide initiative to bring new players into the game.

An excellent turnout of 40 players, of whom 17 were completely new to the sport, set the scene for a successful evening.

The coaching team of Matt and Ben were joined by former Exeter hooker Simon Jenkins and Paul Cox from the RFU, ensuring a professional and fun atmosphere.

The ladies were put through their paces by being split into three groups of mixed ability and rotated through various coaching drills, to help develop their skills and understanding of the game.

The basics of passing, kicking and tackling were all covered, but the main emphasis was on enjoyment and experiencing the team ethic and social aspect of the game.

The training ended with a game of touch rugby, followed by a barbecue and well-earned drinks, and the chance to socialise with club members and players – everyone receiving a T-shirt and a goodie bag to remember the day.

None of this would have been possible without the generous sponsorship of Paul Fenton Financial Services, C and C Homecraft, Bennett and Rogers Opticians, AD Engineering, TP Awards and Gary Bide Photography.

Organisers Liz George and Tanya Poole said: “We are so happy with the numbers of new ladies and girls that came along, and with the current members who came and gave their support.”

New ladies from school year 7 and upwards are welcome to give the sport a go at the club.

Non-contact touch rugby sessions are continuing through the summer, meeting at Chard Rugby Club on Monday evenings (7.30-8.30pm).

For more information about ladies rugby, you can go to the Chard Ladies Facebook page or @Chard RFCLadies on Twitter, or alternatively contact Liz George via 07764 857514.

Chard & Ilminster News:

ORGANISERS: Chard Inner Warrior organisers Liz George and Tanya Poole. Pic: Gary Bide Photography

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CHARD Rugby Club are sad to announce that Mike Jeffery, a former club captain, died recently while in hospital.

Mike joined the club in the 1960s and played regularly until he retired from playing in the early 1980s.

He was an outstanding player who would normally play in the back row but, if the occasion demanded, he could turn out in the centre and be equally formidable.

Mike captained the 1st XV in the 1974/75 season and was also a member of the outstanding side the club had in the late 1970s.

After he finished playing, he became a vice-president at the club, attending many functions and coming along on Saturday afternoons to support the team and, indeed, was seen at the club several times during the past season.

When the club began to really improve its facilities, Mike became one of the trustees.

As well as being a very good player, he really was one of the nicest people you could ever want to meet.

Chard Rugby Club’s thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Wendy, and the rest of his family at this very difficult time.

A service for Mike is being held at The Minster, in Ilminster, tomorrow (June 1) at 2.30pm.